Types of ulcerative colitis

Ulcerative proctitis affects the rectum and may cause urgency, bleeding, or mucus. Proctosigmoiditis involves the rectum and lower section of the colon. Left-sided colitis extends farther along the left side and can bring diarrhoea, abdominal discomfort, urgency, or tiredness.

Extensive colitis, sometimes called pancolitis when the whole colon is involved, affects a broader area. Symptoms and inflammation can change over time, with periods of active disease and quieter periods. The extent does not by itself predict how severe a flare will feel.

A clinician may ask about stool frequency, blood, urgency, abdominal pain, weight change, fever, and symptoms outside the bowel. Assessment can include blood tests, stool tests, and examination of the bowel, with the findings used to confirm inflammation and map its extent.

Take prescribed treatment consistently and keep a record of bowel changes and possible triggers. Do not stop anti-inflammatory or immune-targeting medicine without advice. A GP consultation can help arrange assessment, while a specialist may adjust treatment during a flare or when symptoms persist.

Seek urgent medical help for heavy or persistent rectal bleeding, severe or worsening abdominal pain, a swollen abdomen, repeated vomiting, high fever, faintness, or inability to keep fluids down. A sudden marked increase in bloody diarrhoea also needs prompt assessment because severe inflammation can require hospital treatment.

Ask which part of the colon is affected, how active the inflammation appears, whether tests are needed to exclude infection, and what symptoms should trigger same-day advice. Ask how treatment will be monitored and whether bowel screening is appropriate for your history.