How do I know if I have UC?

How can you tell if you have UC? Symptoms include:

• abdominal pain
• bloody diarrhea
• mild fever
• urges to empty the bowel even when the bowel is empty
• weight loss

You may also have other symptoms, such as:

• blood clots in the leg
• eye inflammation (red eye)
• joint pain
• skin rash

Rarely, UC can lead to a potentially life-threatening condition called toxic megacolon. The inflammation caused by UC can make the colon enlarge to the point where it may tear or burst, spilling the contents of the colon into the abdominal cavity. If you notice these symptoms of toxic megacolon, seek immediate medical attention:

• abdominal pain and tenderness
• confusion
• dehydration
• fast heartbeat
• fever
• swelling of the abdomen

It's not always possible to tell whether you have UC from symptoms alone. That's why it's important to visit your doctor for a diagnosis. If you think you may have UC, see your doctor to find out for sure.