Millions of people worldwide suffer from ulcerative colitis. It is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease. It primarily affects the colon and rectum. People with this condition have inflammation and ulcers in the lining of the digestive tract. The exact cause of this condition is still unclear, but many doctors believed it to result from genetic, environmental, and immunological factors. Here, we can help you detect early symptoms of ulcerative colitis as it prompts medical intervention. It can help manage the disease, improve the patient's quality of life, and prevent potential complications.
Symptoms of Ulcerative Colitis
Common symptoms of ulcerative colitis include:
- Diarrhoea with blood or pus: One of the primary symptoms of ulcerative colitis is chronic diarrhoea, which may be accompanied by blood or pus in the stool. The inflammation in the colon and rectum leads to increased bowel movements and disrupts water absorption and nutrients, resulting in loose, bloody, and sometimes mucus-filled stools.
- Rectal bleeding during bowel movements: The inflamed and ulcerated lining of the rectum can cause bleeding during bowel movements, leading to the passage of small amounts of blood along with stool. This bleeding can vary in severity, ranging from mild to more substantial amounts of blood.
- Abdominal pain and cramping: Individuals with ulcerative colitis commonly experience abdominal discomfort and cramps. The inflammation and ulceration in the colon and rectum can lead to painful contractions of the intestinal muscles, resulting in persistent abdominal pain.
- Rectal pain: Besides abdominal pain, ulcerative colitis can cause discomfort and pain in the rectal area. It may be particularly bothersome during and after bowel movements.
- The urgency to defecate: The inflammation and irritation in the intestines can create a strong and sudden urge to pass stool. This urgent need to defecate can be distressing and challenging to control.
- Inability to defecate despite urgency: Despite the compelling urge to have a bowel movement, some individuals with ulcerative colitis may experience difficulty passing stool.
- Weight loss: Chronic inflammation in the digestive tract can interfere with nutrient absorption, causing decreased appetite and weight loss. The combination of diarrhoea and reduced nutrient absorption contributes to unintentional weight loss over time.
- Fatigue: Chronic inflammation and the body's immune response can lead to persistent fatigue. The disease's physical toll and disrupted sleep patterns due to urgent bowel movements can significantly impact energy levels.
- Fever: In some cases, ulcerative colitis may cause fever, especially during active inflammation or flare-ups. Fever is the body's natural response to inflammation and infection.
- In children, failure to grow: Paediatric cases of ulcerative colitis can have additional consequences, such as growth and developmental issues. Chronic inflammation and nutrient malabsorption can hinder proper growth and lead to delayed development in children.
Most cases exhibit mild to moderate symptoms of ulcerative colitis. The disease may have periods of remission when symptoms improve or disappear temporarily. We recommend that timely medical attention is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment. With health insurance, individuals can access necessary treatments such as medications and biologics, which help control flare-ups and maintain remission in ulcerative colitis.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your general physician or another certified medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.
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