Symptoms and Risks

Research has given us some hints as to the causes of IBD. It has been found that a combination of genes and environmental exposures is probably to blame. Here are some factors that may affect IBD risk.   View slideshow

The course of ulcerative colitis varies greatly from one person to another. Some people may have only mild symptoms, and others may have severe symptoms or complications that, in unusual cases, may be life-threatening. Ulcerative colitis also may be defined by the part of the large intestine affected: the rectum (proctitis), the left side of the colon (left-sided colitis), or the entire colon (pancolitis).  Read More

The symptoms of ulcerative colitis may include diarrhea, rectal bleeding, abdominal pain, constipation, loss of appetitie, fever, weight loss, and anemia.  Read More

Ulcerative colitis is a disease that causes inflammation and sores (ulcers) in the lining of the large intestine, or colon. It usually affects the lower section (sigmoid colon) and the rectum. But it can affect the entire colon. In general, the more of the colon that’s affected, the worse the symptoms will be.  Read More

Call a doctor immediately if you have been diagnosed with ulcerative colitis and you have any of the following:

• Fever over 101 ° F (38.3 ° C) or shaking chills
• Lightheadedness, passing out, or rapid heart rate
• Stools that are almost always bloody
• Severe dehydration
• Severe belly pain with or without bloating
• Pus draining from the area around the anus or pain and swelling in the anal area
• Repeated vomiting
• Not passing any stools or gas  Read More

What causes constipation? Well, the obvious culprits include a low fiber diet, repeatedly ignoring the urge to go, not drinking enough water, or a lack of exercise. Here are 13 possible causes of constipation you may not have considered.   View slideshow