Here are the top ulcerative colitis symptoms ranked by votes.
Ulcerative colitis symptoms can vary widely depending on how severe the inflammation is and where it’s happening in the digestive tract. Common signs include diarrhea, often with blood or pus, abdominal pain and cramping, rectal bleeding, urgency to use the bathroom, and sometimes an inability to go despite feeling the urge. In some cases, the disease can have periods of remission where symptoms improve or disappear altogether for a while.
1
Diarrhea
91
14
Diarrhea is a common symptom of ulcerative colitis, often occurring during flare-ups. It is caused by inflammation in the colon, leading to frequent, loose, and watery stools.
2
Weight loss
75
6
Weight loss occurs when the body is unable to absorb nutrients properly due to inflammation in the digestive tract. It can be exacerbated by poor appetite and diarrhea.
3
Mouth sores
74
9
Mouth sores or ulcers are painful lesions that can develop inside the mouth. These sores are more common in people with ulcerative colitis and can be triggered by inflammation.
4
Rectal inflammation
71
9
Rectal inflammation refers to swelling or irritation of the rectum, often resulting in pain, discomfort, and the sensation of urgency during bowel movements.
5
Mucus in stool
72
11
Mucus in stool is common in ulcerative colitis, as the inflamed colon produces excess mucus to protect itself. This mucus is often visible in the stool.
6
Urgency but could not go – bowel movement
67
6
A common symptom in ulcerative colitis, this involves the feeling of needing to have a bowel movement urgently, but being unable to do so, often due to inflammation.
7
Gas
70
10
Excessive gas can be a symptom of ulcerative colitis, often due to inflammation or changes in the microbiome of the gut. This can lead to bloating and discomfort.
8
Diarrhea – with blood
69
9
Diarrhea with blood is a serious symptom of ulcerative colitis, indicating severe inflammation or ulcers in the colon. The blood may appear bright red or dark.
9
Fever
62
7
Fever is a sign of inflammation or infection and can occur during flare-ups of ulcerative colitis. It is often accompanied by other symptoms like fatigue and abdominal pain.
10
Bowel endometriosis
63
9
Bowel endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows in the bowel. This condition can cause pain and worsen ulcerative colitis symptoms.
11
Bowel incontinence
53
5
Bowel incontinence refers to the inability to control bowel movements, leading to accidental leakage. It can result from severe inflammation in the colon or rectum.
12
Night sweats
54
8
Night sweats, often linked to inflammation or fever, occur when the body produces excessive perspiration during sleep. This can be a sign of an active flare-up.
13
Arthritis
51
6
Arthritis, or joint pain and inflammation, is a common extra-intestinal manifestation of ulcerative colitis, leading to discomfort in the joints, particularly the knees and hips.
14
Nausea
47
6
Nausea often accompanies flare-ups of ulcerative colitis due to inflammation and the body's response to illness. It can also be caused by stress or medication side effects.
15
Constipation
46
9
Although diarrhea is more common, some individuals with ulcerative colitis may experience constipation, especially when inflammation is localized to certain parts of the colon.
16
Rectal pain
44
8
Rectal pain is caused by inflammation, ulcers, or irritation in the rectum, often leading to discomfort during bowel movements or when sitting.
17
Fatigue
42
7
Fatigue is a common and debilitating symptom of ulcerative colitis, often resulting from chronic inflammation, blood loss, and the body's energy demands during flare-ups.
18
Abdominal cramping
43
8
Abdominal cramping is a common symptom that occurs due to inflammation in the intestines, leading to spasms, pain, and discomfort, particularly during or after eating.
19
Rectal bleeding
39
4
Rectal bleeding is a serious symptom of ulcerative colitis, often resulting from ulcerations in the colon or rectum. The blood may appear as streaks or mixed in the stool.
20
Dehydration
29
5
Dehydration occurs when diarrhea leads to excessive fluid loss. It can result in symptoms like dizziness, dry mouth, and reduced urine output.
21
Colon spasms
27
4
Colon spasms are painful contractions in the colon caused by inflammation or irritation. They can lead to discomfort, bloating, and cramping, especially during flare-ups.