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 contributes 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 contribute 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 excess 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
  • 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?

Not diagnosed yet

If you’re having UC symptoms, it’s important to see a gastroenterologist to determine if it’s UC or something else.

Find a gastroenterologist near you

Less than 2 years ago

Did you know that SKYRIZI can help deliver significant symptom relief, visible colon lining repair,* and remission for UC? If you’re still having symptoms on your current treatment, it may be time to discuss a treatment like SKYRIZI with your doctor.

*Areas that were visually assessed may not represent repair of the entire colon lining.

See more SKYRIZI results

2 to 5 years ago

It’s important to share the impact of your UC with your gastroenterologist. 

Take the UC Impact Assessment

More than 5 years ago

It’s important to continue sharing the impact of your UC with your gastroenterologist. Our UC Impact Assessment can help you share information about your UC symptoms and how they impact you.

Take the UC Impact Assessment

Learn About the Science Behind SKYRIZI

See how SKYRIZI works

How SKYRIZI Works

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