Patient was instructed on the symptoms of ulcerative colitis as follows:
- Activation of autoimmune disorders
- As the cause of the inflammatory bowel disease involves an abnormal autoimmune response, this can also lead to exacerbation of any underlying autoimmune diseases, such as, rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).and dry eyes.
- Anemia
- If the blood loss is heavy, patients can present with symptoms of iron deficiency anemia, such as, extreme shortness of breath, pale skin and mucous membranes, dizziness, fatigue, and exhaustion.
- Rectal urgency
- The irritation of rectum can lead to rectal urgency and need to empty bowels.
- This can disturb sleep time and result in exhaustion and distress.