Louise Thompson praised for raising awareness about ulcerative colitis – what are the symptoms?

Louise Thompson has revealed she has a stoma bag

The mum has kept her followers up to date with her harrowing health journey but recently confirmed she has been living with a stoma bag.

She posted a video of her revealing the stoma bag on Instagram and the impact it has had is remarkable.

"It’s not exactly exciting like a big pregnancy or gender reveal announcement! Hey, look I’m having a boy… Hey, look I’ve got a stoma!

"So I guess I’ll just stand here, proud in stature with my new friend Le bum bag that represents life and hopefully a better one," she wrote.

"Isn’t it bizarre that this little grey pouch is the price I pay for good health! I say good riddance to that nasty menacing colon!" Louise wrote.

Her post has been met with waves of support and loving messages from other people with stoma bags.

There's no doubt Louise's post will help others feel seen and understood. The way she is sharing this news is encouraging for many, but educating for those of us who don't have ulcerative colitis.

Her honesty about the condition has helped highlight just how many people it really impacts.

It isn't a health issue that is discussed enough but her honesty will help highlight it.

What is ulcerative colitis?

Ulcerative colitis is a long-term condition where the colon and rectum become inflamed. Small ulcers may develop on the lining of your colon and they may bleed or produce pus.

The main symptoms of the autoimmune condition include recurring diarrhoea, stomach pain, and needing to poo frequently.

This harrowing condition can cause weight loss, a loss of appetite, and extreme tiredness.

Each case differs and depends on how much of the rectum and colon is inflamed and how severe the inflammation is.

It can have a significant impact on someone's day-to-day life, but there are treatments available.

Some people can treat the life-long condition with medication, but others may need to have an ileostomy.

Doctors will remove some or all of your colon during the surgery. Your small intestine can be diverted out of an opening in your abdomen, which is known as a stoma.

Some people will only have the stoma temporarily until their bowel has healed, but others will have a stoma bag for the rest of their life.

As Louise said perfectly, the bag gives her back her health, as well as her life.

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