What should you know about microscopic ulcerative colitis?

Microscopic colitis causes inflammation that is often visible only when colon tissue is examined under a microscope. Its main symptom is persistent, watery, non-bloody diarrhoea, sometimes with cramps, urgency or tiredness. Ulcerative colitis affects the lining of the colon and commonly causes diarrhoea, abdominal pain and sometimes blood or mucus.

Because symptoms overlap with infections, medicine effects and other bowel disorders, the name cannot be confirmed from symptoms alone. A clinician may review medicines, take blood or stool tests, and arrange a colon examination with biopsies when appropriate.

Keep a record of stool frequency, urgency, abdominal pain, blood, food triggers and medicines, including anti-inflammatory painkillers. Drink enough fluid and discuss persistent diarrhoea before making major dietary changes. Do not stop a prescribed medicine without checking with the prescriber.

A GP consultation can start the assessment and arrange referral if needed. If ulcerative colitis is diagnosed, treatment and monitoring are tailored to the extent and activity of inflammation. Colorectal cancer screening is a separate preventive pathway; your clinician can explain whether it applies to you.

Seek urgent care for severe or worsening abdominal pain, heavy rectal bleeding, repeated vomiting, fainting, confusion, fever with marked illness, or signs of dehydration such as very little urine. Arrange a prompt appointment for diarrhoea that persists, wakes you at night, causes weight loss, or interferes with daily activities.

Ask whether your symptoms fit microscopic colitis, ulcerative colitis or another cause, which medicines could contribute, whether biopsies are needed, and what changes should prompt urgent review.