Understand Ulcerative Colitis
Ulcerative Colitis Symptoms
Common Ulcerative Colitis Symptoms
A key element in managing your ulcerative colitis is making sure you recognize the common symptoms. The more you know about UC, the better equipped you are to deal with it.Common symptoms of active ulcerative colitis may include:
- Rectal bleeding
- Abdominal discomfort/cramping
- Urgent need to go to the bathroom
- Bloody diarrhea
If you have a mild form of the condition, you may experience episodes of diarrhea with no blood or only traces of blood in the stool. If your UC is mild, you most likely won't have night-time bowel movements or rectal incontinence; also, you'll have little or no rectal bleeding.
Those with moderate forms may experience increased stool frequency, more abdominal discomfort, and blood in the stool. If your UC is of moderate severity, you may experience rectal incontinence and have night-time bowel movements. Additionally, you may have more rectal bleeding than you would if your UC was mild.
Contact Your Doctor If UC Symptoms Change or Worsen
If your ulcerative colitis symptoms change or worsen please contact your doctor. Remember that ulcerative colitis is a lifelong condition, and developing an open and honest relationship with your physician is an important first step in taking control of your disease.Your doctor can monitor your condition best when you provide accurate information about your ulcerative colitis and your overall health. Share information such as:
- Changes in your life and health since your last visit
- Any personal concerns about your life, health, or medications
- What ulcerative colitis and other medications (both prescription and over-the-counter) you're taking
Important Safety Information
Asacol® (mesalamine) delayed-release tablets, available only by prescription, are indicated to treat mild to moderate flare-ups of ulcerative colitis and maintain remission of ulcerative colitis.Asacol is generally well tolerated. In studies of flare-ups, some people taking Asacol reported headache, abdominal pain, general pain, rash, upset stomach, and worsening of colitis symptoms. In a six month maintenance study, some people reported headache, runny nose, general pain, sore throat, infection, and nervousness.
You should not take Asacol if you are allergic to Asacol or to salicylates such as aspirin. Tell your doctor if you have kidney problems or a history of kidney disease. It is recommended that all people have their kidney function tested prior to starting Asacol tablets and periodically while on Asacol therapy. Serious side effects may occur. If you have questions about taking Asacol, please talk to your doctor.
All personal information you choose to provide will remain confidential and anonymous and will only be available to Procter & Gamble and the companies working for them to help provide materials of interest to you. Please see full privacy statement by clicking the link below.
