Which specialist treats ulcerative colitis?

Ulcerative colitis is inflammation of the lining of the large bowel. A gastroenterologist can confirm the diagnosis, judge how active the inflammation is, and plan treatment intended to control symptoms and protect bowel health. They may arrange blood or stool tests, and sometimes a camera examination of the bowel. A colorectal surgeon may become involved when surgery needs discussion, while a dietitian can help with eating difficulties or unintentional weight loss.

Book a GP appointment if you have ongoing diarrhoea, blood in stool, abdominal pain, or a change in your usual bowel pattern. Bring a short record of symptoms, medicines, recent illness, and relevant family history. Your GP can examine you, arrange initial tests, and refer you to gastroenterology. Once care is established, follow the agreed monitoring and contact plan rather than changing prescribed medicine on your own.

Seek urgent medical assessment for heavy rectal bleeding, severe or worsening abdominal pain, a swollen abdomen, fainting, confusion, or signs of dehydration such as very little urine. Contact your care team promptly if bowel symptoms are escalating, you cannot keep fluids down, or you are losing weight without intending to. These symptoms need assessment because they can signal active bowel inflammation or another problem requiring treatment.

Ask whether your symptoms fit ulcerative colitis or need tests for another cause. Ask what each test can show, how you will know whether treatment is working, which symptoms should trigger an urgent call, and whether you need input from a dietitian or colorectal surgeon.