Common symptoms of ulcerative colitis include:
- Diarrhea: This is one of the hallmark symptoms of ulcerative colitis. It can be frequent and may contain blood or mucus.
- Abdominal Pain: Crampy abdominal pain or discomfort, often in the lower left side of the abdomen.
- Rectal Bleeding: Blood in the stool or visible blood when you wipe after a bowel movement.
- Urgency: A strong and sudden need to have a bowel movement, which can be difficult to control.
- Tenesmus: A constant feeling of needing to have a bowel movement, even when the rectum is empty.
- Fatigue: Ongoing fatigue and weakness, which can be related to anemia caused by chronic blood loss.
- Weight Loss: Unintentional weight loss, often due to decreased appetite and malabsorption of nutrients.
- Reduced Appetite: Loss of appetite and, in some cases, nausea.
- Joint Pain: Joint pain and swelling, especially in the larger joints, which is more common during flare-ups.
- Skin and Eye Issues: Some individuals may experience skin problems, such as rashes or sores, and eye inflammation (uveitis or episcleritis).
It’s important to note that the severity and combination of symptoms can vary among individuals with ulcerative colitis. Additionally, some people may experience periods of remission with few or no symptoms, while others may have chronic or more severe symptoms.
If you suspect you have ulcerative colitis or are experiencing these symptoms, it’s important to seek medical evaluation and diagnosis by a healthcare provider. Proper diagnosis and treatment are essential for managing the condition.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with ulcerative colitis ,consult Dr. Chintamani Godbole one of the best Gastrointestinal Surgeon in Mumbai
What are the common symptoms of ulcerative colitis?