First symptoms of ulcerative colitis

Ulcerative Colitis is inflammation of the lining of the large bowel and rectum. Inflamed tissue can cause frequent loose stools, an urgent need to open the bowel, and blood or mucus mixed with stool. Cramping may improve temporarily after a bowel movement, while ongoing inflammation can leave a person tired or reduce appetite. Symptoms can come and go, and similar bowel changes may have other causes, so assessment is needed rather than self-diagnosis.

Book a GP Consultation for persistent diarrhoea, rectal bleeding, repeated urgency, or unexplained abdominal pain. Record stool frequency, blood or mucus, pain, temperature, recent travel, medicines, and weight or appetite changes. Drink regularly, choose foods you tolerate, and avoid taking anti-diarrhoeal medicine for bloody diarrhoea unless a clinician advises it. A clinician may arrange blood or stool tests and decide whether specialist review is needed.

Seek urgent care for heavy rectal bleeding, severe or steadily worsening abdominal pain, a swollen abdomen, repeated vomiting, faintness, confusion, or inability to keep fluids down. Fever with significant diarrhoea or rapid deterioration also needs prompt assessment. These signs can indicate serious inflammation, bleeding, or dehydration.

Ask which tests can distinguish Ulcerative Colitis from infection or other bowel conditions, how to manage fluid and food intake, and which symptoms require same-day help. Discuss whether Colorectal Cancer Screening is relevant for your age, symptoms, and personal history; screening is not a substitute for investigating new bleeding.