corticosteroid eye drops to help with this condition.
7. Liver Disease
In a small percentage of cases, people with ulcerative colitis develop scarring on their bile ducts. Known as primary sclerosing cholangitis, the illness can’t be cured but it can be managed. While it doesn’t present symptoms in the early stages, you should eventually notice unexplained weight loss, itchy skin, fatigue, fever, and jaundice.
8. Bowel Cancer
Ulcerative colitis comes with an increased risk of developing bowel cancer. This is especially true if you have a severe form of the disease. While it can take some time for you to get this form of cancer, it usually occurs within 10 years of being diagnosed with ulcerative colitis. The typical symptoms of bowel cancer include abdominal pain, diarrhea, and blood in the stools.
9. Bleeding Problems
Ulcerative colitis can cause significant bleeding in the digestive system, which is visible through blood in the stools. In some cases, the disease also increases the risk of blood clots in the veins and arteries. Signs of blood clots include a sudden, cramping pain in the leg or arm as well as breathlessness or sharp chest pain.
RELATED: How To Manage Ulcerative Colitis
When To Call Your Doctor
All of the potential complications from ulcerative colitis are enough for you to talk to your doctor. As soon as you see the symptoms, you need to let them know so they can put you on a treatment program.
In most cases, getting started early is the best way to prevent the condition from worsening. Typically, your doctor will focus on reducing your flare-ups but it might also mean changing your current medication.
Anyone can develop complications from ulcerative colitis and it’s not unusual to have more than one.
The best approach is to know which symptoms deserve your attention and talk to your doctor quickly. Once you stick to the regimen that you’re given, it should be easier to manage your condition.