What is the prime symptom of ulcerative colitis?

The prime symptom of ulcerative colitis is bloody diarrhea. This inflammatory bowel disease primarily affects the colon and rectum, leading to inflammation and ulceration of the intestinal lining. As a result of this inflammation, patients often experience frequent episodes of diarrhea, which can be accompanied by blood and mucus.

The presence of blood in the stool is a significant indicator of the condition because it reflects the degree of inflammation and damage within the intestinal lining. This symptom can vary in intensity and frequency, often exacerbated during flare-ups of the disease. Recognizing this symptom is crucial for early diagnosis and appropriate management of ulcerative colitis.

Other symptoms can include abdominal pain, cramping, and urgency to defecate, but the hallmark of the disease is indeed bloody diarrhea, which distinguishes it from other gastrointestinal disorders.