When to Go to the ER With Crohn's or Colitis

Posted on June 23, 2026 · Flares

Content note: Reviewed for patient education accuracy against publicly available guidance from the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation and major IBD education sources. Last reviewed June 2026. Not individual medical advice.

Educational use only. IBDPal does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your gastroenterologist or IBD care team for personal decisions.

Flares are common, but some symptoms need emergency evaluation. This article summarizes red flags many clinics mention. Always follow your gastroenterologist's on-call instructions first.

Call 911 or Go to the ER

• Severe abdominal pain, especially with a rigid or board-like abdomen
• Heavy rectal bleeding or dizziness with bleeding
• High fever with worsening pain
• Signs of severe dehydration: very low urine, confusion, rapid heartbeat
• Persistent vomiting and inability to keep fluids down

Same-Day Clinic or Urgent Care

Worsening urgency, moderate blood, new pain patterns, or flare symptoms that match your action plan may fit same-day nurse lines or urgent care if your GI team agrees. Bring a medication list and recent symptom log.

What Helps in the ER

State that you have Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis, list biologics and steroids, and mention prior surgeries or ostomies. IBDPal exports can show recent stool counts and fever notes.

After an ER Visit

Schedule GI follow-up even if symptoms improve. Update your action plan if triggers changed.

Prevention Planning

Know the nearest hospitals covered by your insurance. Keep a clinician letter for travel and school. See our first 48 hours of a flare article for early steps.