Health Tip: Signs That You May Have Ulcerative Colitis

Dec. 5 -- (HealthDay News) -- Ulcerative colitis is a form of inflammatory bowel disease that affects the large intestine and rectum. There is no known cause, the U.S. National Library of Medicine says.

The agency lists these common symptoms of ulcerative colitis:

• Pain in the abdomen, which often subsides after a bowel movement.
• Unusual gurgling sounds in the abdomen.
• Diarrhea and fever.
• Losing weight.
• Frequent feeling like you need to have a bowel movement.
• Vomiting and nausea.
• Pain in the joints.
• Gastrointestinal bleeding.