Understanding a UC flare-up

What is a UC flare?

A flare (also called a relapse) happens when your UC symptoms become active again after a period of remission — when symptoms were well-controlled or absent. Flares are a normal part of living with UC. Most people with UC experience them at some point, even with consistent treatment.

What does a flare feel like?

Flare symptoms often include:

• Increased frequency and urgency of bowel movements
• Return or worsening of blood in stool
• Cramping and abdominal pain that feels worse than usual
• Fatigue that makes it hard to get through the day
• Disrupted sleep due to nighttime bathroom trips
• Loss of appetite or unintended weight loss

Common flare triggers

While triggers vary by person, common ones include:

• Stress: Physical or emotional stress can trigger or worsen inflammation
• Infections: Gastrointestinal infections (like food poisoning) can set off a flare
• Certain medications: NSAIDs (like ibuprofen) and antibiotics can trigger flares in some people
• Changes in medication: Missing doses or stopping medication too soon
• Certain foods: High-fiber foods, spicy foods, alcohol, or caffeine during sensitive periods

Early warning signs to watch for

Some people notice early warning signs before a full flare develops. These can include a slight increase in bathroom frequency, mild urgency, or feeling more fatigued than usual. Tracking your symptoms in a diary can help you spot these patterns and contact your doctor early.

When to contact a doctor

Contact your GI doctor if you think you are entering a flare, especially if you have significant blood in stool, symptoms that are getting worse quickly, or signs that your current medication is not working. Early intervention can prevent a mild flare from becoming severe.