When to worry about diarrhoea with ulcerative colitis

Diarrhoea is a common presentation of Ulcerative Colitis. A flare may bring more frequent stools, urgency, blood or mucus, cramping, and fatigue. Infection, a medicine change, or another bowel problem can also cause new diarrhoea. Record what is different from your usual pattern, including bleeding, pain, temperature, and your ability to drink.

Follow the flare plan from your gastroenterology team if you have one, and keep taking regular medicines unless they advise otherwise. Drink steadily and choose foods you tolerate. Keep a record of stools, blood, pain, fever, and fluids. Contact your care team before using anti-diarrhoea medicines, because they may not be suitable during some flares or complications.

Arrange prompt review for a clear increase in diarrhoea, new or increasing blood, fever, worsening fatigue, night-time symptoms, or signs of dehydration such as dark urine and dizziness. Go to emergency care for severe or constant abdominal pain, a swollen abdomen, heavy bleeding, fainting, confusion, or inability to drink. A rapid change from your baseline deserves attention even if pain is mild.

Could this be a flare, infection, or a medicine effect? Should I change any treatment today? What stool and hydration details should I record? Which symptoms mean I should attend emergency care rather than wait for an appointment?