Signs I might be having a flare 🚩

Sometimes it can be hard to know whether your IBD symptoms are just having a bad day or whether you might be having a flare.

A flare means your IBD has become more active, causing inflammation in your gut. Everyone can experience a flare differently, but there are some signs to look out for.

🚽 Changes in your poo

You might notice:

• Going to the toilet more often than usual

• Diarrhoea or looser poo

• Needing to get to the toilet very quickly

• Waking up during the night to poo

• Blood in your poo

• Mucus in your poo

• A change in how your poo normally looks

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🤕 Tummy symptoms

You might have:

• Tummy pain or cramps

• Bloating

• Feeling like you still need to poo after going

• More urgency than usual

• More accidents or near-misses

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😴 Feeling different

A flare can affect your whole body, not just your gut.

You might notice:

• Feeling much more tired than usual

• Having less energy for school, sport or seeing friends

• Losing your appetite

• Losing weight without trying

• Feeling generally unwell

• A temperature or fever

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🧠 Your mood can change too

When your symptoms get worse, you might feel:

• More worried about getting to the toilet

• Embarrassed

• Irritable

• Anxious about going to school

• Less interested in seeing friends

• Frustrated or upset

  
  

Your mental health can also affect how you experience your symptoms, so it’s important to tell someone how you’re feeling.

🔎 What should I do if I notice these signs?

Don’t try to work out on your own whether you’re definitely having a flare.

Tell your parent, carer, or another trusted adult what you’ve noticed. They can help you contact your IBD team.

Your IBD team may ask about your symptoms and may want to do tests, such as blood tests or a stool test, to check whether there is inflammation.

Don’t stop or change your IBD medicine on your own, even if you think you’re having a flare. Speak to your healthcare team first.

💛 Remember

One bad poo or one day of tummy pain doesn’t necessarily mean you’re having a flare.

But if you notice a change from what is normal for you, especially if symptoms are continuing or getting worse, it’s worth telling someone.

You know your body better than anyone. If something doesn’t feel right, speak up. 🗣️