Ulcerative colitis neurological symptoms

Some people with ulcerative colitis notice headaches, dizziness, tingling, numbness, weakness, muscle cramps or difficulty concentrating. These symptoms may occur during active bowel inflammation, when diarrhoea causes fluid or salt loss, or when poor intake leads to deficiencies. A symptom can also be unrelated to the bowel condition. Treatment effects and another neurological problem must be considered rather than assuming one explanation.

Tell a clinician when the symptom began, whether it is on one side, and whether it changes with bowel symptoms, food, hydration or a medicine. A GP or gastroenterology team may review medicines and arrange examination or blood tests. Read more about [Ulcerative Colitis](/conditions/ulcerative-colitis/), [Abdominal Pain](/symptoms/abdominal-pain/) and [Diarrhoea](/symptoms/diarrhoea/).

Keep taking prescribed ulcerative colitis treatment unless a clinician tells you to change it. Record the symptom, bowel activity, fluid intake and any recent medicine changes. Drink regularly if you have diarrhoea, unless you have been given a fluid restriction. Do not start supplements or stop a medicine based only on an online explanation; a clinician can decide whether testing or a different treatment is appropriate.

Arrange a [GP Consultation](/treatments/consultations-and-assessment/gp-consultation/) for new, persistent or recurring neurological symptoms, especially when they occur with weight loss, marked fatigue or worsening bowel symptoms.

Seek emergency help for sudden weakness or numbness on one side, facial drooping, new trouble speaking, severe confusion, loss of consciousness, a seizure, a sudden severe headache, or difficulty walking that starts abruptly. Seek prompt medical care for worsening weakness, persistent vomiting, severe dehydration, black or bloody stools, or severe abdominal pain. These warning signs require assessment regardless of whether ulcerative colitis is active.

Ask: Could this symptom relate to dehydration, a deficiency, inflammation or a medicine? Which examination or blood tests are needed? Should my bowel treatment be reviewed? What changes should make me seek urgent help?