Colitis, which is commonly referred to as ulcerative colitis, is an inflammatory bowel condition most frequently diagnosed in patients between the ages of 15 and 30, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. Anyone who exhibits symptoms of colitis should seek care from a medical professional.
Abdominal Pain
When the intestinal tract is inflamed, patients with colitis can experience mild to severe abdominal pain as a symptom of this condition, explains UpToDate.com, a peer-reviewed health information website. Abdominal pain may be accompanied by cramping or bloating, which can be uncomfortable. Patients who develop sudden or severe abdominal pain should contact a doctor, as these colitis symptoms can be signs of other medical problems.
Diarrhea or Constipation
Frequent bouts of diarrhea are common in patients with colitis. Affected patients may produce loose, watery stools that contain mucus or blood, reports MayoClinic.com. These colitis symptoms can be accompanied by abdominal pain or rectal bleeding in certain patients. Additionally, patients with colitis can experience recurrent diarrhea followed by episodes of constipation. Frequent or chronic diarrhea can cause dehydration symptoms. Patients who develop bowel movement changes for any reason should consult a doctor for further evaluation and care.
Flu-like Symptoms
Inflammation within the intestinal tract due to colitis can cause flu-like symptoms to emerge in affected patients. These symptoms can include fatigue or unexplained weight loss, reports FamilyDoctor.org. Certain patients may also develop a recurrent low-grade fever that is accompanied by headache, sweating or chills. These symptoms can also be signs of an alternate infection, and affected patients should seek further care from a doctor.
Body Pain
In certain patients with colitis, inflammation within the intestinal tract can extend to other regions of the body. If this occurs, patients can experience mild to severe pain within the joints, warns the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. Joint pain due to colitis may make it difficult for affected patients to move about normally. Patients who develop body or joint pain symptoms in conjunction with abdominal discomfort or diarrhea should consult a doctor.
