NHS Ulcerative Colitis – NHS Choices – Your health, your …

Ulcerative colitis is a long-term condition, where the colonand rectum become inflamed.

The colon is the large intestine (bowel), and the rectum is the end of the bowel where stools are stored.

Smallulcers can develop onthe colon's lining,and can bleed and produce pus.

The main symptoms of ulcerative colitis are:

Theseverity of the symptoms varies, depending on how much of the rectum and colon is inflamed and how severe the inflammation is. For some people, the condition has a significant impact on their everyday lives.

Some may go for weeks or months with very mild symptoms, or none at all (known as remission), followed by periods where the symptoms are particularly troublesome (known as flare-ups or relapses).

Read more about the symptoms of ulcerative colitisand living with ulcerative colitis.

You should see your GP as soon as possible if you have symptoms of ulcerative colitis and you haven't been diagnosed with the condition. They can arrange blood or stool sample tests to help determine what may be causing your symptoms. If necessary, they can refer you to hospital for further tests.

Read more about diagnosing ulcerative colitis.

If you have been diagnosed with ulcerative colitis andthink you may be having a severe flare-up,contact your GP or care team for advice. You may need to be admitted to hospital.

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NHS Ulcerative Colitis - NHS Choices - Your health, your ...