Ulcerative Colitis: 10 Stool Changes You Shouldn't Ignore

Monitoring bowel health is crucial for managing ulcerative colitis, with even minor changes signaling the need for medical attention.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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Individuals living with ulcerative colitis (UC) must pay close attention to their stool patterns, as changes in frequency, consistency, blood content, and other factors can indicate a flare-up of the disease. Experts emphasize that no amount of blood in the stool is normal, and the presence of mucus, pus, or a persistent feeling of needing to have a bowel movement all require prompt medical evaluation. Emerging technologies like wearable sensors and AI-powered stool analysis may soon provide more objective and proactive monitoring of UC symptoms.

Why it matters

Monitoring bowel health and stool patterns is crucial for everyone, but particularly vital for individuals living with ulcerative colitis (UC). Proactive attention to these details can significantly impact disease management, allowing patients and their healthcare teams to stay ahead of flares and make timely treatment adjustments.

The details

According to experts, diarrhea or loose stools, the presence of blood (even small amounts), excessive mucus production, and the sensation of needing to have a bowel movement even when the bowel is empty (tenesmus) are all important indicators of UC flare-ups that should not be ignored. Other red flags include increased urgency, nocturnal bowel movements, changes in stool odor, abdominal pain, and weight loss. While current monitoring relies heavily on patient-reported symptoms, future trends point towards more objective approaches using wearable sensors, AI-powered stool analysis, and a deeper understanding of the gut microbiome's role in UC.

  • Ulcerative colitis is a chronic condition that requires lifelong management.

The players

Alan Moss, MD

Chief scientific officer at the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation and a professor of gastroenterology at Boston University's Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine.

Supriya Rao, MD

A gastroenterologist and spokesperson for the American Gastroenterological Association.

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What they’re saying

“For people living with UC, paying close attention to stool patterns – frequency, consistency, blood, urgency, and nighttime symptoms – and sharing those details early with your gastroenterology team is one of the most powerful ways to stay ahead of flares.”

— Alan Moss, MD, Chief scientific officer at the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation and a professor of gastroenterology at Boston University's Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine (newsy-today.com)

“There is no amount of blood that is considered normal in UC, even if it's just on toilet paper.”

— Supriya Rao, MD, Gastroenterologist and spokesperson for the American Gastroenterological Association (newsy-today.com)

What’s next

Researchers are exploring the use of wearable sensors to continuously monitor stool characteristics, and AI-powered algorithms to analyze stool samples for early detection of flares. Future monitoring may also involve regular microbiome analysis to assess the balance of gut bacteria and identify potential targets for therapeutic intervention.

The takeaway

Paying close attention to changes in stool patterns and reporting any concerns to your healthcare provider is crucial for managing ulcerative colitis. While current monitoring relies heavily on patient-reported symptoms, emerging technologies promise more objective and proactive approaches to disease management in the near future.