If you have ulcerative colitis

Ulcerative colitis is a long-term inflammatory condition affecting the lining of the large bowel. It may cause diarrhoea, urgency, abdominal pain, or blood and mucus in bowel movements. Symptoms can become more active during a flare and settle for periods of remission. A symptom such as diarrhoea does not by itself confirm ulcerative colitis; other bowel conditions can look similar.

Assessment may include your symptom history, examination, blood or stool tests, and sometimes a camera test of the bowel. The aim is to confirm the cause, judge inflammation, and choose treatment that fits your health and current symptoms.

Keep taking prescribed medicine as directed, even when symptoms have settled, unless the clinician managing you advises a change. Record bowel frequency, urgency, pain, bleeding, fever, appetite, and weight so changes are easier to discuss. Drink regularly, choose foods you tolerate, and ask for dietary advice if eating becomes difficult. Arrange a GP Consultation or specialist review when symptoms are returning, medicine is causing problems, or you need a written flare plan.

Seek urgent medical help for heavy or repeated rectal bleeding, severe or worsening abdominal pain, a swollen abdomen, persistent vomiting, faintness, confusion, high fever, or signs of dehydration such as very little urine. A rapid change in bowel symptoms with marked weakness also needs prompt assessment. Do not wait for a routine appointment if you feel acutely unwell.

Ask which symptoms should trigger your flare plan, whether your current treatment needs review, how to handle missed doses, and when your next monitoring tests are due. You can also ask whether Colorectal Cancer Screening is appropriate for your history and how to distinguish a flare from an infection.