Are there any complications with ulcerative colitis?
Other problems in addition to gut problems occur in about 1 in 10 cases. These include: skin rashes, inflammation of the eye (uveitis), pain and inflammation of some joints (arthritis), and liver inflammation. It is not clear why these occur. The immune system may trigger inflammation in other parts of the body when there is inflammation in the gut. These other problems tend to go when the gut symptoms settle, but not always.
A severe flare-up is uncommon, but if it occurs it can cause serious illness. The whole colon may become ulcerated, inflamed, and dilated (megacolon). A part of the colon may perforate, or severe bleeding may occur. Surgery is often needed if a flare-up becomes severe (see below).
Cancer. The risk of developing cancer of the colon is increased if you have UC (see below).
How is ulcerative colitis diagnosed?
A doctor can look inside the colon using a special telescope (a short sigmoidoscope or a longer flexible colonoscope. Separate leaflets describe these tests in detail). The appearance of the inside lining of the colon may suggest UC. A small sample (biopsy) of the colon is taken and looked at under the microscope. The typical pattern of the cells seen with the microscope may confirm the diagnosis.
A special X-ray of the large intestine (barium enema) may also be advised. This can help to show how much of the colon is affected.
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