What should you know about proctosigmoiditis ulcerative colitis?

The inflammation is limited to the lower end of the large bowel, but it can still make bowel movements frequent, urgent or uncomfortable. Some people pass mucus or blood with small amounts of stool, while others have cramping in the lower abdomen. Symptoms can settle and then return in flares. A diagnosis is based on your symptoms, examination and tests such as stool checks, blood tests or a camera examination of the bowel. Other causes of bleeding and diarrhoea need to be considered.

Arrange a GP consultation if bleeding, urgency or altered bowel habit continues. Treatment may involve medicine applied in the rectum, medicine taken by mouth, or both, depending on the inflammation and your previous response. Take prescribed treatment as directed and tell the clinician if symptoms remain active or medicines cause problems. Keep a simple record of bowel frequency, blood, pain and food or medicines that seem to affect you. Do not stop long-term treatment without medical advice.

Seek urgent medical help for heavy or persistent rectal bleeding, severe abdominal pain, a swollen abdomen, repeated vomiting, faintness, confusion, or inability to keep fluids down. Contact a clinician promptly if diarrhoea is worsening, you develop fever, or you feel unusually weak. Sudden deterioration can require assessment for dehydration or a more extensive bowel problem.

Ask which tests will confirm the extent of inflammation, whether rectal treatment is suitable, how to recognise a flare, and when follow-up or colorectal cancer screening should be considered.