Ulcerative Colitis

Ulcerative Colitis

Ulcerative Colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that causes long-lasting inflammation and ulcers in the lining of the large intestine (colon and rectum). It is a lifelong condition marked by periods of flare-ups and remission.

Unlike functional bowel disorders, ulcerative colitis causes visible inflammation and tissue damage in the digestive tract.

Types of Ulcerative Colitis

Ulcerative colitis is classified based on the area of the colon affected:

  • Ulcerative proctitis – inflammation limited to the rectum

  • Left-sided colitis – affects the rectum and left side of the colon

  • Extensive colitis (pancolitis) – affects the entire colon

Common Symptoms

Symptoms may range from mild to severe and include:

  • Persistent diarrhea, often with blood or mucus

  • Abdominal pain and cramping

  • Urgency to pass stool

  • Rectal bleeding

  • Fatigue and weakness

  • Weight loss and reduced appetite

  • Fever in severe cases

Symptoms often occur in cycles, with flare-ups followed by periods of remission.

Causes

The exact cause of ulcerative colitis is unknown. It is believed to result from a combination of:

  • Immune system dysfunction, causing the body to attack healthy intestinal tissue

  • Genetic factors

  • Environmental triggers, such as infections or stress

Diet and stress do not cause ulcerative colitis but may worsen symptoms during flare-ups.