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Signs & Symptoms of Ulcerative Colitis

Stomach upset is unpleasant for anyone, but some people may have a severe form of lower bowel dysfunction called ulcerative colitis. Ulcerative colitis is more commonly known as inflammatory bowel disease, or IBS. Symptoms can be overlooked for years because they mimic the symptoms of more common forms of stomach upset.

  1. Noisy Digestion

    • Some people with ulcerative colitis experience loud noises during digestion. Everyone's digestive system makes some amount of noise, which usually cannot be heard without a stethoscope. A person with ulcerative colitis may experience noises that can be heard plainly, such as splashing sounds or a knocking echo sound. According to the National Institutes of Health, increased sounds in the digestive system are called hyperactive bowel sounds.

    Pain

    • Pain is a very common symptom of ulcerative colitis. The pain can be anywhere within the lower digestive tract, from cramping in the colon to a sore rectum while having a bowel movement. According to the National Institutes of Health, most people with ulcerative colitis experience relief from the pain associated with the condition after a bowel movement.

    Diarrhea

    • According to the Mayo Clinic, diarrhea or very loose stools is often the first symptom of a person with ulcerative colitis. The diarrhea can be a daily, long term condition. Others with this condition may experience occasional but urgent diarrhea. In cases where the bowel is fully inflamed, a person might also experience bloody diarrhea.

    Causes

    • According to the National Institutes of Health, there is no known cause for ulcerative colitis. It seems to strike people within two age spans, between the ages of 15 and 30 and also between the ages of 50 and 70. A family history of ulcerative colitis can increase the risk of a person developing this disease. People with Jewish heritage also seem to be more prone to developing ulcerative colitis.

    Treatments

    • Many people with ulcerative colitis are able to keep their symptoms in check with diet modification. This includes drinking plenty of water and eating plenty of fiber, as well as avoiding foods that seem to trigger the symptoms. The Mayo Clinic lists several medications that can also be used for the treatment of this condition, including anti-inflammatories, immune suppressors, and over-the-counter pain relievers. For some people, their symptoms are severe enough to require surgery, which normally involves removing all of the colon and rectum. This procedure is called a proctocolectomy.

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