WHAT IS ULCERATIVE COLITIS?

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UC Is a Disease That Causes Inflammation in the Colon

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that causes inflammation in the colon lining. UC is a progressive disease, which means it can continue to get worse over time. If left untreated, this uncontrolled inflammation can contribute to UC symptoms.

GIF of a healthy colon lining undamaged by inflammation. And then, a colon lining visibly damaged by uncontrolled inflammation.

What Causes Ulcerative Colitis?

While there isn’t a single known cause of UC, research suggests that genetics, the environment, or an overactive immune system contributes to it. If you have UC, you’re not alone; it affects around 5 million people worldwide.

Uncontrolled UC Inflammation Can Cause Colon Lining Damage

Inflammation is your immune system’s defensive response to injuries, bacteria, and viruses—anything your immune system thinks may harm you. When you have UC, an overactive immune system can cause chronic inflammation. Too much inflammation can lead to colon lining damage and UC symptoms.

In the long term, uncontrolled inflammation of the colon lining can increase the chance of developing serious health risks, including the risk of colon cancer.

Healthy Colon Lining

A healthy colon lining undamaged by inflammation 

See the Wide Range of UC Symptoms

Common UC Symptoms:

  • Diarrhea
  • Blood in stool
  • Bowel urgency

    Bowel urgency

    The sudden, physical feeling that you need to have a bowel movement.

  • Abdominal pain

Some People Also Experience:

  • Cramping
  • Fever
  • Weight loss 
  • Fatigue
  • Accidents
  • Nighttime bathroom trips

Bowel urgency

The sudden, physical feeling that you need to have a bowel movement.

Share any changes in your symptoms with your doctor

Changes in your symptoms, big or small, can be a sign that it may be time for a new treatment. The UC Impact Assessment can help you gather important information about what you’re experiencing, so you can share it with your doctor at your next appointment.

Fill out the UC Impact Assessment

QUICK QUESTION

When were you diagnosed with UC?

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