Common signs of ulcerative colitis

Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory disease of the lining of the colon and rectum, causing discomfort, pain, and potentially bleeding. If left undetected and untreated, it increases the risk of serious complications.

Báo Sức khỏe Đời sống•25/11/2025

Ulcerative colitis is an inflammatory condition affecting the lining of the colon and rectum. It can be short-lived or chronic. This condition causes discomfort, pain, and in some cases, bleeding, increasing the risk of colorectal cancer.

Causes of ulcerative colitis

There are many causes of ulcerative colitis, the most common of which are:

Unhealthy eating habits

Poor hygiene in eating and drinking can cause intestinal infections due to bacteria such as Salmonella, Shigella, or Campylobacter.

Use antibiotics

Some cases of proctitis are associated with antibiotic use. While antibiotics can kill the bacteria causing the infection, they can also disrupt the balance of beneficial bacteria, creating conditions for Clostridium difficile to thrive and cause proctitis.

Genetic and immunological factors

A genetic abnormality causes the immune system to overreact to agents such as bacteria, viruses, or food when they come into contact with the digestive tract.

However, the exact cause cannot be determined in every case.

Common signs of ulcerative colitis - Image 2.

Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory disease of the lining of the colon and rectum.

Symptoms of ulcerative colitis

The most common symptom is tenesmus – an uncomfortable, constant urge to defecate even after just having gone to the toilet. This condition stems from inflammation and irritation of the rectal lining.

Common symptoms include:

Bloody stools
Itching or burning sensation in the anus
Rectal bleeding
Anal or rectal pain
intermittent abdominal cramps
Rectal discharge of mucus or pus
Diarrhea or loose stools
Swollen lymph nodes in the groin

Patients may also exhibit extra-gastrointestinal manifestations.

Anyone who suspects they have the disease or notices unusual symptoms should see a doctor for examination and diagnosis. Based on symptoms, health status, family history, and sexual behavior, the doctor will order appropriate tests.

Complications of ulcerative colitis

If left untreated or unresponsive to treatment, proctitis can lead to several complications:

Anemia

Prolonged rectal bleeding causes a deficiency of red blood cells, leading to fatigue, dizziness, shortness of breath, pale skin, and irritability.

Abscess

A painful, swollen, pus-filled area forms due to infection.

Wide ulcer and leakage

Chronic inflammation can easily lead to rectal mucosal ulcers. When the ulcers spread deeply, they can form fistulas connecting the rectum to the skin or other organs such as the bladder or vagina.

Colorectal cancer

It is a dangerous, life-threatening complication if not detected and treated early.

Treatment of ulcerative colitis

Depending on the cause and severity of the condition, the doctor will choose the appropriate treatment method.

Commonly used medications include:

Antibiotics in case of bacterial infection.
Anti-inflammatory drugs: 5-ASA, corticosteroids
Immunosuppressant drugs

If medical treatment is ineffective or the disease recurs frequently, patients may need surgery to remove the damaged portion of the colon and rectum, especially when complications such as colon perforation or massive gastrointestinal bleeding occur.