Symptoms

Ulcerative colitis. Symptoms that point toward ulcerative colitis include bloody diarrhea, a sudden, urgent need to use the bathroom, and feeling like you still have to go even after a bowel movement. Because ulcerative colitis is limited to the colon and starts at the rectum, cramps and bleeding centered in the lower abdomen or rectum are common. Fatigue and fever may happen during serious flares.

Because the colon does not absorb nutrients and calories, malnutrition can occur in ulcerative colitis. It typically only develops if the condition is severe or lasts a long time.

Crohn's disease. Symptoms that point toward Crohn's disease include belly pain with often nonbloody diarrhea and unintended weight loss, especially when the small intestine is involved. Issues in the area around the anus, known as the perianal area, can occur. They include drainage, painful fissures and tunnels in the tissues, called fistulas. Mouth sores also suggest Crohn's disease. Narrowing in the intestines, called strictures, can cause nausea, vomiting or bloating.

Malnutrition is more common and often more severe in Crohn's disease. This is because Crohn's can affect any part of the digestive tract, including the small intestine. This is where most nutrients are absorbed. When inflammation or surgery affects this area, it can lead to malabsorption. This means the body doesn't take in enough nutrients from food. People with Crohn's may experience:

• Weight loss.
• Vitamin and mineral deficiencies.
• Bone loss.
• Anemia.