What should you know about different types of ulcerative colitis?

Ulcerative proctitis affects the rectum. Proctosigmoiditis involves the rectum and sigmoid colon. Left-sided colitis extends farther along the left side of the colon, while extensive colitis or pancolitis affects most or all of the colon. Symptoms can include diarrhoea, rectal bleeding, urgency, cramps, and abdominal pain, but the pattern varies between people. A flare may be mild or severe, and the extent can change over time, so the label is only one part of the assessment.

Arrange a GP consultation if ongoing bowel changes, bleeding, or abdominal pain need assessment. Your clinician may ask about stool frequency, urgency, weight change, medicines, and family history, then arrange tests or referral. Treatment is chosen according to the affected area and current inflammation; do not stop prescribed medicine when symptoms settle without advice. Keeping a brief symptom and food record can help describe a flare.

Seek urgent medical help for heavy or repeated rectal bleeding, severe or worsening abdominal pain, a swollen abdomen, persistent vomiting, faintness, confusion, or signs of dehydration such as very little urine. A flare with frequent diarrhoea and fever also needs prompt clinical advice.

Ask which part of the colon is affected, how active the inflammation appears, what tests are planned, how to recognise a flare, and when follow-up is needed.