Ulcerative Colitis Overview and Considerations
Learn about ulcerative colitis, a chronic inflammatory bowel disease affecting the colon and rectum. Explore its symptoms, causes, diagnosis, treatment options, and important considerations for effective management.
Written by Dr. Shaik Abdul Kalam
Reviewed by Dr. Rohinipriyanka Pondugula MBBS
Last updated on 28th Aug, 2025
Living with digestive issues can be challenging, especially when they disrupt your daily life. If you've been experiencing persistent stomach pain, diarrhea, or bloody stools, you might be dealing with ulcerative colitis (UC) a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that affects the colon and rectum.
This article will help you understand what ulcerative colitis is, its symptoms, causes, and how to manage it effectively. Remember, while UC can be uncomfortable, proper care and lifestyle adjustments can help you lead a healthy life.
What is Ulcerative Colitis?
Ulcerative colitis is a long-term condition where the inner lining of the colon (large intestine) and rectum become inflamed and develop ulcers. Unlike Crohn’s disease (another type of IBD), which can affect any part of the digestive tract, UC only involves the colon and rectum.
The inflammation usually starts in the rectum and can spread upwards, leading to symptoms like abdominal pain, frequent diarrhea, and rectal bleeding. While there’s no cure yet, treatments can help control symptoms and improve quality of life.
Consult a Top Gastroenterologist
Common Symptoms of Ulcerative Colitis
Symptoms can vary from mild to severe and may come and go in flare-ups. Common signs include:
• Persistent diarrhea, sometimes with blood or pus
• Abdominal pain and cramping
• Urgent need to pass stools
• Fatigue and weakness
• Unintended weight loss
• Loss of appetite
• Fever (during flare-ups)
In severe cases, UC can lead to complications like dehydration, anemia, or even colon damage. If you notice these symptoms, it’s important to consult a doctor.
What Causes Ulcerative Colitis?
The exact cause is still unknown, but researchers believe it results from a combination of factors:
1. Immune System Dysfunction – The body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells in the digestive tract, causing inflammation.
2. Genetics – Having a family member with UC increases your risk.
3. Environmental Triggers – Infections, diet, stress, or certain medications may trigger flare-ups.
While you can’t prevent UC entirely, understanding triggers can help manage symptoms better.
How is Ulcerative Colitis Diagnosed?
If you suspect UC, your doctor may recommend:
Blood tests (to check for anemia or infection)
Stool tests (to rule out infections or inflammation)
Colonoscopy (to examine the colon and take tissue samples)
Imaging tests (like CT scans or MRIs)
Early diagnosis helps in better management, so don’t delay seeking medical advice.
Treatment Options for Ulcerative Colitis
While there’s no cure, treatments aim to reduce inflammation and prevent flare-ups. Options include:
1. Medications
• Anti-inflammatory drugs (like aminosalicylates)
• Corticosteroids (for short-term flare-ups)
• Immunosuppressants (to control immune response)
• Biologics (for moderate to severe UC)
2. Lifestyle & Dietary Changes
• Eat small, frequent meals to ease digestion.
• Avoid trigger foods like spicy, fatty, or high-fiber foods during flare-ups.
• Stay hydrated to prevent dehydration from diarrhea.
• Manage stress with yoga, meditation, or therapy.
3. Surgery (In Severe Cases)
• If medications don’t help, surgery to remove the colon (colectomy) may be necessary.
When to See a Doctor?
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
• Heavy bleeding
• Severe abdominal pain
• High fever
• Rapid weight loss
If you’re struggling with UC symptoms, Apollo 24|7 offers expert consultations and diagnostic tests to help you manage the condition effectively.
Final Thoughts
Living with ulcerative colitis can be tough, but with the right treatment and lifestyle adjustments, you can control symptoms and lead a fulfilling life. Pay attention to your body, avoid triggers, and stay in touch with your healthcare provider for the best care.
Consult a Top Gastroenterologist
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Consult a Top Gastroenterologist
Dr Harish K C
Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist
15 Years • MBBS MD DM MRCP(UK) (SCE-Gastroenterology and Hepatology)
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, JP nagar, Bengaluru
Dr Anshuman Kaushal
Minimal Access/Surgical Gastroenterology
24 Years • MS FNB (MAS) FACS FCLS FIAGES FALS (BARIATRIC) FMAS
Delhi
Apollo Hospitals Indraprastha, Delhi
Dr. Kartik Natarajan
Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist
8 Years • MBBS, MD,DNB medicine , DrNB Gastroenterology and hepatology, MRCP, fellowship in advanced endoscopy - Mayo clinic Rochester
Chennai
Apollo Hospitals Greams Road, Chennai
(175+ Patients)
Dr. Jatin Yegurla
Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist
11 Years • MD (PGI), DM (AIIMS Delhi), FAGIE (AIIMS Delhi), ESEGH (UK), Gold Medalist
Hyderabad
Apollo Hospitals Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad
(625+ Patients)
Dr. Ankit Vijay Agarwal
Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist
14 Years • MBBS(Osmania), DNB(Internal Medicine ), DM ( Osmania) Consultant Gastroenterologist, Hepatologist and Advanced Therapeutic Endoscopist
Hyderabad
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