Colitis, also known as ulcerative colitis, refers to the inflammation of the large intestine (colon). In many cases, colitis causes sores (ulcers) in the stomach or rectal lining. According to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse, colitis is most common between ages 15 and 30, affects women and men equally, and tends to run in families. Symptom type and severity varies among individuals, though pain and bloody diarrhea are most common.
Abdominal Pain
Inflammation in the digestive tract associated with colitis may trigger pain in the abdominal area. According to the NDDIC, abdominal pain is one of the most common reported symptoms of colitis, and tends to be mild in roughly half of sufferers and more severe in others. Abdominal pain may occur as tenderness, aching or cramping and may intensify after eating. In many cases, abdominal pain accompanies other symptoms, such as diarrhea.
Diarrhea/Rectal Bleeding
Diarrhea--loose, frequent stools--is also common among colitis sufferers. Diarrhea may contain blood and may appear repeatedly. Severe bleeding and dehydration are potential complications of ulcerative colitis, according to the Mayo Clinic. Severe, chronic bloody and non-bloody diarrhea increase risk for dehydration and may require medical treatment. Rectal bleeding, or blood in the anus or discharged between or following bowel movements, may also occur.
Weight Loss/Reduced Appetite
Ulcerative colitis may cause unintentional weight loss. This may stem from reduced appetite, excessive diarrhea or from depressive moods or fatigue that reduce the willingness to eat. When weight loss occurs in children with colitis, it may lead to delayed physical development, according to the NDDIC. Nutrient deficiencies may also stem from weight loss and reduced appetite, which increases risks for osteoporosis and iron-deficient anemia.
Joint Pain
A less common but painful side effect of colitis involves the joints. Joint pain may stem from inflamed joints, inactivity or the nutritional deficiencies associated with colitis. In some cases, joint pain evolves into arthritis, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Skin Lesions
Colitis causes skin lesions, or abnormal skin growths. They may appear as bumps or as tender sores in the body's soft tissues, such as the mouth or genitals, and may spread to other areas. According to the NDDIC, skin lesions are a less common symptom of colitis, potentially caused by the body's inflammatory immune system response.
