Symptoms of Crohn's and ulcerative colitis

Ulcerative colitis affects the lining of the large bowel and commonly causes frequent urgent stools, sometimes with blood or mucus. Crohn's disease can affect different parts of the digestive tract and may cause abdominal pain, diarrhoea, reduced appetite, weight loss, or mouth ulcers. Both conditions can cause tiredness and symptoms outside the bowel, such as joint or skin problems. Similar symptoms can result from infection, medicines, or other bowel conditions, so they do not confirm inflammatory bowel disease.

Arrange a GP consultation for persistent diarrhoea, recurrent abdominal pain, blood in the stool, unexplained fatigue, or a change in bowel habit. Keep a brief record of stool frequency, urgency, pain location, bleeding, fever, food triggers, and medicines. Drink enough fluid, especially during diarrhoea, and avoid making major dietary restrictions before getting tailored advice. A clinician may arrange blood or stool tests and refer you for further assessment.

Seek urgent care for heavy rectal bleeding, black stools, severe or steadily worsening abdominal pain, a swollen abdomen with vomiting, inability to keep fluids down, fainting, confusion, or signs of dehydration. Fever with severe pain or a rapidly worsening flare also needs prompt medical advice. Emergency assessment is particularly important for someone already diagnosed with inflammatory bowel disease and taking immune-affecting treatment.

Ask whether symptoms fit an inflammatory bowel pattern, which tests are appropriate, how to manage a flare safely, and whether colorectal cancer screening is due for your individual history.