Spotting and managing a flare.
How to recognize the early signs of a flare, and when and how to take action.
Lesson 4 of 5
2 min read · Updated September 16, 2026 · Medically reviewed by Shamita Shah, MD
In this lesson
Key takeaways
- A flare is when symptoms come back or get worse after a time of feeling better.
- Learn your own early warning signs, and keep a symptom log.
- Don’t stop or change your medicine without talking to your care team.
- Contact your care team as soon as symptoms get worse. Don’t wait.
What is a flare?
A flare is a period when IBD symptoms come back or get worse after a time of feeling better. Everyone’s flares look a little different, but common early warning signs include:
- More frequent bowel movements
- Belly cramping
- Feeling tired
- Less interest in eating
- More blood in your stool than usual
Learning your own red flags helps you catch a flare early, before it gets worse. One of the best tools for this is a symptom log or diary.
Common flare triggers
Several things can trigger an IBD flare. One common trigger is stopping or changing your medicine, even by accident, such as missing doses or running out of a prescription. Always talk with your care team before changing how you take your medicine.
Infections, including stomach viruses or bacterial infections like C. difficile, can also set off a flare.
Stress is one of the most commonly reported triggers. Stress doesn’t cause IBD, but research shows it can lead to real, measurable changes in the gut. Managing stress with tools like deep breathing, gentle exercise or counseling won’t replace medicine, but it may help lower your risk of a flare.
When to contact your care team
Reach out to your care team as soon as symptoms start getting worse. Don’t wait to see if things improve on their own. Contact your team right away if you notice:
- New or increased rectal bleeding
- A fever that won’t go away
- Belly pain that feels severe or constant
Your care team would rather hear from you too soon than too late. Catching the warning signs early and staying in close contact with your care team are two of the most powerful ways to stay ahead of a flare and out of the hospital.
Questions to ask at your next visit
- What early warning signs should I watch for?
- Who should I call if I think I’m having a flare, and when?
- What should I do if I miss a dose or run out of medicine?
- What can I do to help manage stress?
Who to call
Medical emergency
Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
Symptoms or medicine questions
Contact your GI doctor’s office.
Questions about SonarMD
Call a care coordinator at 312-283-0601, Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. CT.
This information is for education only and does not replace advice from your doctor. If you have severe symptoms, contact your doctor right away. In an emergency, call 911.