If you or someone you love have recently been diagnosed with ulcerative colitis, its important to begin learning as much as you can about what ulcerative colitis is. By developing a better understanding of ulcerative colitis, you will be more prepared to manage its symptoms and live a full life. Ulcerative colitis is a chronic disease of the large intestine, also known as the colon, in which the lining of the colon becomes inflamed and develops tiny open sores, or ulcers, that produce pus and mucous. The combination of inflammation and ulceration can cause abdominal discomfort and frequent emptying of the colon. Ulcerative colitis is the result of an abnormal response by your body's immune system. Normally, the cells and proteins that make up the immune system protect you from infection. In people with IBD, however, the immune system mistakes food, bacteria, and other materials in the intestine for foreign or invading substances. When this happens, the body sends white blood cells into the lining of the intestines, where they produce chronic inflammation and ulcerations. Its important to understand the difference between ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. Crohns disease can affect any part of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, but ulcerative … Continue reading →

What is ulcerative colitis? Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the lining of the large intestine (colon) and rectum. People with this condition have tiny ulcers and small abscesses in their colon and rectum that flare up periodically and cause bloody stools and diarrhea. Crosscut of colon and rectum with ulcerative colitis. Ulcerative colitis is characterized by alternating periods of flare-ups and remission in which the disease appears to have disappeared. The periods of remission can last from weeks to years. The inflammation usually begins in the rectum and then spreads to other segments of the colon. How much of the colon is affected varies from person to person. If the inflammation is limited to the rectum, the disease may be called ulcerative proctitis. Ulcerative colitis, unlike Crohn's disease, does not affect the esophagus, stomach or small intestine. When grouped together, ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease are referred to as inflammatory bowel disease because they cause inflammation of the bowel. Ulcerative colitis can be inherited. Up to 25 percent of people with inflammatory bowel disease have a first-degree relative (mother, father, brother, sister) with the disease. The main symptom of ulcerative colitis is diarrhea that often becomes … Continue reading →