Ulcerative Colitis

What are the common symptoms of ulcerative colitis?^1,2

The symptoms of ulcerative colitis vary from person to person. They may be constant, or may come and go every few weeks or months – when symptoms come back, it’s called a ‘flare-up’. There’s no way to predict when flare-ups will happen.

The most common symptoms of ulcerative colitis include:

• Diarrhoea with blood, mucus or pus in your stool
• Cramping and pain in your belly
• A constant and/or urgent need to defecate
• Inability to defecate despite urgency with rectal pain
• Feeling sick, tired and losing weight
• Fever

What causes ulcerative colitis?

Ulcerative colitis is complex and involves many factors, affecting about the same number of men and women. Ulcerative colitis can be triggered by a viral or bacterial infection; your immune system mistakes harmless bacteria as a threat and attacks the large intestine, causing it to become inflamed.

Ulcerative colitis seems to run in families, as it is more common in people who have relatives with the disease.¹ Common triggers include:^2,3

• Certain medications such as pain relievers and antibiotics
• Emotional stress

What can I do if I have been diagnosed with ulcerative colitis?

Ulcerative colitis can be managed with different therapy options and medication. Your doctor will make a treatment plan for you and provide you with all the necessary information you need. Always take your medication as instructed by your doctor or nurse.