What are the symptoms of ulcerative colitis?
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Symptoms of Ulcerative Colitis
Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that primarily affects the colon and rectum. The symptoms of UC can vary in severity and may include both gastrointestinal and extraintestinal manifestations.
Gastrointestinal Symptoms
Bloody Diarrhea
One of the hallmark symptoms of ulcerative colitis is bloody diarrhea. This symptom is frequently reported and is a direct result of the inflammation and ulceration of the colonic mucosa .
Abdominal Pain and Cramps
Patients with UC often experience abdominal pain and cramps. These symptoms are due to the inflammation and irritation of the colon, which can cause significant discomfort .
Fecal Urgency and Tenesmus
Fecal urgency, the sudden and intense need to defecate, and tenesmus, the sensation of incomplete evacuation, are common in UC. These symptoms are particularly prevalent in patients with active disease and are related to the inflamed and irritable distal colon .
Increased Stool Frequency
Increased frequency of defecation is another common symptom. Patients with active UC may experience frequent bowel movements, which can significantly impact their quality of life .
Rectal Bleeding
Rectal bleeding is a frequent symptom due to the ulceration of the rectal mucosa. This bleeding can range from mild to severe and is often a key indicator of disease activity .
Constipation
Interestingly, some patients with active UC may experience constipation, particularly those with proximal colonic involvement. This is thought to be secondary to fecal stasis in the proximal colon.
Extraintestinal Symptoms
Neurological Manifestations
UC can also have neurological manifestations, although these are less common. These may include cerebrovascular disease, systemic and cerebral vasculitis, immune-mediated neuropathy, and cerebral demyelination. Symptoms such as epileptic seizures and encephalopathies have been reported, although they are considered symptomatic rather than primary manifestations of UC.
Fatigue
Fatigue is a debilitating symptom that significantly affects the quality of life of UC patients. It is often associated with the chronic inflammation and the body's ongoing immune response .
Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis
Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a chronic liver disease that can occur in conjunction with UC. It is characterized by inflammation and fibrosis of the bile ducts and can complicate the course of UC .
Conclusion
Ulcerative colitis presents with a range of symptoms primarily affecting the gastrointestinal tract, including bloody diarrhea, abdominal pain, fecal urgency, and increased stool frequency. Extraintestinal manifestations, such as neurological symptoms and fatigue, can also occur. Understanding these symptoms is crucial for the effective management and treatment of UC.
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