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Conditions

Ulcerative colitis

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that causes inflammation and ulcers in the lining of the colon. It always starts in the rectum and can extend up through part or all of the colon. Like Crohn's disease, it tends to flare and settle.

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Symptoms

  • Diarrhea, often with blood or mucus
  • Urgency, or a frequent need to go
  • Cramping abdominal pain
  • Fatigue and anemia
  • Waking at night to use the bathroom

Diagnosis

UC is diagnosed with colonoscopy and biopsies, supported by blood and stool tests to rule out infection and measure inflammation.

Treatment

Treatment depends on how much of the colon is involved and how active the disease is.

  • Mesalamine (5-ASA): by mouth or as suppositories or enemas, for mild to moderate disease
  • Steroids: short-term, to control flares
  • Advanced therapies: biologics and small-molecule medicines for moderate to severe disease or steroid dependence
  • Surgery: removal of the colon, for disease that doesn't respond or for precancerous change

The aim is lasting remission and a healed colon lining.

Colon cancer surveillance

After about 8 years of UC that involves more than the rectum, regular surveillance colonoscopy is recommended, because long-standing inflammation raises colon cancer risk.

Common questions

What's the difference from Crohn's?

UC affects only the colon's inner lining, continuously from the rectum; Crohn's can affect any part of the gut in patches and deeper layers.

Can I have children?

Most people with UC can, and planning ahead with your GI doctor helps keep the disease quiet.

Questions about ulcerative colitis? Call (813) 400-0543 or send a message.

Dr. Brian Frank, MD
Written and reviewed by Brian Frank, MD
Board-certified gastroenterologist (ABIM). Last reviewed October 8, 2026.

This page is general information, not medical advice. For a medical emergency, call 911.