What Are the Symptoms of Ulcerative Colitis?

Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that primarily affects the colon and rectum. The symptoms can range from mild to severe and may vary from person to person. Some individuals may experience periods of flare-ups, while others may have long periods of remission.

• Abdominal Pain and Cramping: One of the most common symptoms of ulcerative colitis is abdominal discomfort, which can vary in intensity. Cramping may occur, particularly after meals or during bowel movements.

• Diarrhea: Frequent, loose stools are common in ulcerative colitis, often accompanied by an urgent need to use the bathroom. Diarrhea may also contain blood or mucus, a hallmark sign of inflammation in the colon.

• Blood in Stool: The inflammation and ulceration of the colon can lead to bleeding. Blood may appear in the stool or on the toilet paper, which is a significant indicator of ulcerative colitis.

• Weight Loss: Unexplained weight loss can result from nutrient malabsorption due to ongoing inflammation in the digestive tract. This is often accompanied by a reduced appetite.

• Fatigue: Chronic inflammation can lead to fatigue, as the body struggles to absorb essential nutrients. Many individuals with ulcerative colitis feel constantly tired, even with adequate rest.

• Fever: A mild to moderate fever may accompany flare-ups of ulcerative colitis, especially if there is significant inflammation or infection.

If you experience these symptoms, Dr. Preeti Mehta and our board-certified team of gastroenterologists at Digestive Disease Care are here to provide an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plan to manage ulcerative colitis effectively.

The duration of ulcerative colitis symptoms can vary significantly from person to person, depending on the severity of the disease and the individual’s response to treatment. Ulcerative colitis is a chronic condition that often follows a pattern of flare-ups and periods of remission.

• Flare-ups: During a flare-up, symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and blood in the stool may be intense and persistent. These episodes can last for days, weeks, or even longer if not managed properly. The frequency and length of flare-ups depend on the level of inflammation in the colon and how well the disease is controlled with medication and lifestyle changes.

• Remission: Remission refers to periods when symptoms significantly improve or completely subside. In remission, individuals may experience little to no symptoms. These periods can last for months or even years, especially with effective treatment. However, ulcerative colitis is unpredictable, and flare-ups can happen even during remission.

• Management of Symptoms: Proper treatment, including medications, can help shorten the duration of flare-ups and prevent them from becoming chronic. Regular follow-ups with healthcare providers, such as Dr. Preeti Mehta and our board-certified team of gastroenterologists at Digestive Disease Care, are crucial in managing the disease and minimizing the frequency and severity of symptoms.

In general, with the right treatment plan, many individuals with ulcerative colitis can experience extended periods of remission and manage flare-ups effectively.

If you experience severe symptoms of ulcerative colitis, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. Severe symptoms may include intense abdominal pain, significant bleeding in the stool, persistent diarrhea, and fever. These symptoms can indicate a flare-up or complications that require prompt medical intervention to avoid further damage to the colon.

• Contact Your Healthcare Provider: If your symptoms worsen or become unbearable, reach out to your gastroenterologist, such as Dr. Preeti Mehta, and our board-certified team of gastroenterologists at Digestive Disease Care. They can assess your condition, make adjustments to your treatment plan, and recommend further diagnostic tests if needed.

• Go to the Emergency Room if Necessary: In cases of severe bleeding, dehydration, or symptoms of shock (e.g., dizziness, rapid heartbeat, or fainting), you should go to the nearest emergency room. These may be signs of complications like a perforated colon or severe infection, both of which require immediate medical care.

• Rest and Hydration: While waiting for medical assistance, it’s essential to stay hydrated, especially if you are experiencing diarrhea. Avoid solid foods until you’ve consulted with a healthcare provider to prevent further irritation of the intestines.

• Follow Treatment Adjustments: Severe symptoms may require changes in your current medication regimen, such as the addition of stronger anti-inflammatory drugs. Your doctor will guide you on the most effective course of action.

At Digestive Disease Care, we are committed to providing personalized care to manage ulcerative colitis symptoms and ensure the best possible outcomes for your health.

Diagnosing ulcerative colitis typically involves a combination of assessing symptoms, conducting physical exams, and performing various diagnostic tests. Doctors, such as Dr. Preeti Mehta and our board-certified team of gastroenterologists at Digestive Disease Care, start by reviewing the patient’s medical history and symptoms. Common signs, like persistent abdominal pain, diarrhea, blood in the stool, and fatigue, prompt further investigation.

To confirm the diagnosis, a colonoscopy is often the key diagnostic tool. During this procedure, a flexible tube with a camera is inserted into the colon to examine the lining for signs of inflammation, ulceration, and bleeding, all of which are characteristic of ulcerative colitis.

Additionally, blood tests are used to check for signs of infection, anemia, or inflammation. Elevated levels of C-reactive protein (CRP) or an increased erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) may indicate inflammation in the body.

Stool tests can also help rule out infections that may cause similar symptoms. In some cases, imaging tests like a CT scan or MRI may be recommended to assess the extent of colon inflammation.

A combination of symptoms, physical exams, and diagnostic tests allows doctors to make an accurate diagnosis and develop a personalized treatment plan for ulcerative colitis.

At Digestive Disease Care, Dr. Preeti Mehta, MD, and our team of board-certified gastroenterologists specialize in diagnosing and treating ulcerative colitis with a focus on compassionate, patient-centered care. We understand the challenges that come with this chronic condition, and our approach is tailored to improve your quality of life. Our team uses advanced diagnostic tools, including physical exams, blood tests, imaging studies, and colonoscopy, to accurately diagnose ulcerative colitis and assess the extent of inflammation. This thorough evaluation ensures we can determine the most effective treatment options.

Once diagnosed, Dr. Preeti Mehta and her team work closely with each patient to develop a personalized treatment plan. This plan may include medications, along with lifestyle modifications to help manage flare-ups and maintain long-term remission. We are dedicated to supporting you throughout your journey, providing continuous care, and empowering you with the knowledge and resources to manage your symptoms. At Digestive Disease Care, our commitment is to deliver the highest standard of care, ensuring that you feel heard, supported, and confident in managing your ulcerative colitis effectively. For more information, please contact us or book an appointment online. We have convenient locations to serve you in Babylon NY, East Setauket NY, Forest Hills NY, Jericho NY, Lake Success NY, Melville NY, Mineola NY, Massapequa NY, New Hyde Park NY and Riverhead NY.