Ulcerative Colitis

The symptoms of ulcerative colitis can vary depending on the severity and extent of the inflammation and can also change during flare-ups. The main symptoms are diarrhoea (which may contain blood or mucus), urgency (needing to hurry to the bathroom), abdominal pain, tenesmus (the feeling of needing to go to the toilet though the bowel is empty), fatigue and weight loss. People with ulcerative colitis may also have extra-intestinal symptoms (symptoms in other parts of their body), especially during flare-ups. These may include a fever, joint pain and irritation in the eyes.

The investigation of suspected ulcerative colitis can be done in several ways, and often involves a combination of different methods. This may include evaluation of a patient’s symptoms and medical history, blood or stool tests, endoscopies and biopsies. Sometimes, patients may need to be examined using imaging tests in order to assess the severity and extent of the inflammation.

At Karolinska, the comfort and needs of the patient are always a priority. That is why we are actively working to make non-invasive diagnostic methods such as intestinal ultrasound more available in the diagnostic process of IBD.

With the right treatment, symptoms can be reduced and patients can achieve long-term remission. Ulcerative colitis is often treated with aminosalicylates such as 5-ASA, or immunosuppressants, for example cortisone during flare-ups. Patients can also be treated with biologics or other advanced therapies that target different parts of the immune system to reduce inflammation. Patients with ulcerative colitis may also undergo surgery to remove the colon or rectum, often followed by so-called reconstructive surgery.  At Karolinska our knowledgeable specialist surgeons utilise modern methods such as robot-assisted surgery.