Ulcerative Colitis (UC) is an inflammatory condition that leads to the formation of ulcers in the gastrointestinal tract. UC is a chronic disease, which means that it cannot be cured. However, certain measures can ensure that one remains in remission for a long period.

Here are the risk factors and early signs of UC one should be aware of:

1. Age
Those younger than 30 develop ulcerative colitis more often than those older than 30. Age is hence a definite risk factor.

2. Diet style
Some experts believe that consuming certain foods with excess saturated and trans fat and sugars can increase a person’s risk of developing ulcerative colitis.

3. Ethnicity
If one is a Caucasian, they have a higher risk for developing ulcerative colitis when compared to people of other races. People who belong to Ashkenazi Jewish descent seem to have the highest risk of being diagnosed with the chronic condition.

4. Genetics
Certain genes may lead to a person’s risk of developing UC. These may be passed on from parents or grandparents. These are non-controllable risk factors.

5. Environmental factors
Some people may have abnormal genes that are sleeping and not active. Certain environmental triggers, including bacterial infections, chemical changes, or habits like smoking, can trigger these genes and make them active, leading to ulcerative colitis.

Early signs of ulcerative colitis

1. Blood in stools
One of the early signs of ulcerative colitis is blood in the stools. Sometimes one can have fresh blood, and other times, it could be the presence of dark brown stools, which indicate dried blood.

2. Diarrhea
Another common early sign of UC is consistent diarrhea, even if one has not changed their dietary habits. Diarrhea can lead to dehydration if left untreated. It is essential to consult a doctor if one has chronic diarrhea.

3. Abdominal pain
Abdominal pain is a common early sign that shows there is inflammation in the abdominal area. If abdominal pain is followed by bloody stools or diarrhea, it means the condition has intensified.

4. Fever
Close to half of those individuals with UC develop a fever when there is a flare-up. Fever is a result of inflammation in the GI tract and the immune system trying to fight it.

5. Weight loss
Problems like diarrhea and constant abdominal pain can bring down the regular appetite of the person and can lead to weight loss. This is also considered one of the early signs of ulcerative colitis.

6. The urgency to pass stools
Diarrhea leads to constant urgency to pass stools all through the day. Sometimes, the person may just have the urge to defecate without actually being able to pass stools.

One should make a note of all these risk factors and early signs of ulcerative colitis, and if they notice any of these symptoms, it is essential for them to talk to their doctor right away.