Ulcerative Colitis Resource Center - All Articles
Health ConditionsDigestive HealthUlcerative Colitis

Ulcerative Colitis - All Articles

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Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) affecting your colon and rectum’s inner lining. You may experience a range of symptoms, including diarrhea that often contains blood, abdominal pain and cramping, rectal pain, and an urgent need to pass poops.

 UC treatment aims to reduce inflammation and manage symptoms. It can involve medications, lifestyle changes like dietary adjustments, and in some cases, surgery.

   Poll

Which symptom is the most difficult to cope with?

FAQ

Is ulcerative colitis a disability?

The Social Security Administration advises that they would consider severe inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) a disability if its symptoms significantly limit your ability to carry out crucial life activities. Talk to your doctor about whether you meet the criteria.

The exact cause of ulcerative colitis is unknown, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic, environmental, and immune system factors. These might include immune system problems and certain genes.

The first signs of ulcerative colitis can vary but often include diarrhea that may or may not have blood, an increased number of urgent bowel movements, belly cramps or tenderness, and urgency to have a bowel movement.

There is no cure for ulcerative colitis. Treatments, including medications to control flares, surgery to remove inflamed tissue if medical treatments fail, and lifestyle adjustments, can help you manage symptoms, control the number of flares, and achieve remission.

People with UC have different triggers, so there’s no one-size-fits-all diet to prevent flares or relieve symptoms. Some people find it helpful to avoid spicy foods, dairy, high-fiber foods, and caffeine, especially during flare-ups.

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Resources
  1. Ulcerative colitis. Mayo Clinic. August 17, 2023.
  2. Ulcerative Colitis. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.

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