Ulcerative Colitis

Ulcerative Colitis

Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that causes long-term inflammation and ulcers in the colon and rectum. It belongs to the same family of diseases as Crohn’s disease, but unlike Crohn’s, ulcerative colitis only affects the colon. Symptoms include abdominal cramps, diarrhea (often with blood), weight loss, fatigue, and urgency to use the bathroom. The exact cause is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve an immune system response that attacks the digestive tract, often triggered by genetic and environmental factors. The condition typically progresses in flare-ups, where symptoms worsen, followed by periods of remission. Treatment for ulcerative colitis includes anti-inflammatory medications, immunosuppressive drugs, and biological therapies that target the immune system to reduce inflammation. In severe cases, surgery to remove the colon (colectomy) may be necessary. Lifestyle changes, such as a balanced diet and stress management, can also help control flare-ups. Regular monitoring and colonoscopies are vital to manage the disease and detect any potential complications, including colon cancer, which may be more common in those with long-term ulcerative colitis. Though there is no cure, modern treatments allow many people to live symptom-free for extended periods.