Ulcerative Colitis

Ulcerative colitis is a common inflammatory disease of the colon characterized by inflammation and ulceration of the large bowel and rectum. The condition impairs the ability of the large bowel to absorb water which results in diarrhea, the main symptom of the condition.

Ulcerative colitis is a relapsing and remitting condition, meaning symptoms can die down for long periods but then flare-up from time to time. These flare-ups can be sudden and severe. During a period of relapse, symptoms may include bloody diarrhea, abdominal pain and a sudden urge to defecate. Other symptoms include wind, loss of appetite, weight loss, fever and fatigue.

Currently, there is no cure for the condition apart from surgery. However, certain treatments such as corticosteroids or immunosuppressants may be used to ease symptoms by reducing inflammation. Surgery for severe ulcerative colitis that does not respond to treatment involves completely removing the large bowel and re-routing the small bowel so that waste can still be expelled. This procedure is called a colectomy.

In the UK, the incidence of ulcerative colitis is around 1 in 500 and the condition is equally common among males and females. Symptoms can develop at any age, but onset usually occurs between 15 and 30 years of age.

What is Ulcerative Colitis?

Ulcerative colitis is a chronic condition that affects the large intestines, particularly the colon. It is classified as one of the two inflammatory bowel diseases along with Crohn’s disease.

Ulcerative Colitis Causes

Ulcerative Colitis Diagnosis

Ulcerative Colitis Epidemiology

Ulcerative Colitis Treatment

Ulcerative Colitis Research

Latest Ulcerative Colitis News and Research

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Unexpected protein production in immune cells may fuel gut inflammation

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Genetic mutation tied to Crohn's disease can worsen iron deficiency and anemia

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ADHD linked to higher risk of irritable bowel syndrome, global study reveals

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Upper gastrointestinal involvement is common in Egyptian patients with ulcerative colitis

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Global study maps the spread of IBD in Africa, Asia, and Latin America

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28 May 2025

Mediterranean plant may be an effective treatment for ulcerative colitis, rat study shows

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Cardiovascular mortality higher in women with rheumatoid arthritis and lupus

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GLP-1 agonists may reshape the gut microbiome

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Study reveals disparities in healthcare utilization among racial and ethnic groups with IBD

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Machine learning identifies key comorbidities predicting premature death in IBD patients

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Epstein-Barr virus triggers inflammatory cell death in ulcerative colitis

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24 Mar 2025

Machine learning helps predict early mortality in IBD patients

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Plant-based diets and IBD

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19 Mar 2025

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17 Mar 2025

Semi-synthetic bile acid could be a promising therapeutic option for TH17-mediated intestinal diseases

A research team from the Medical University of Vienna has made further progress in the treatment of intestinal inflammation.

14 Mar 2025

Restoring gut health in ulcerative colitis through microbiome-based therapy

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10 Mar 2025

Eating ultra-processed foods harms your gut—here’s how inflammation takes hold

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