Day 1: What is ulcerative colitis?

Let's start off with the basics.

͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­

DAY 1 OF 3 Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that affects the inner lining of the colon. UC causes ulcers along the colon's lining and throughout the rectum, which can lead to a number of uncomfortable or painful gastrointestinal symptoms. This condition is not to be confused with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). IBD is characterized by prolonged inflammation of the intestines, whereas IBS is a noninflammatory group of conditions of the digestive tract. UC is most commonly diagnosed in young people (15 to 30 years old). Research suggests an overactive immune system, genetics, and environmental factors all play a role, but the exact cause is still unknown. Symptoms to look out for UC symptoms range in severity from person to person and can change over time. You may go through periods of flare-ups and remission. Common flare-up triggers include certain medications, stress, and foods. The most common symptoms include: • abdominal cramping • bloody stool • diarrhea • fever • rectal pain • weight loss You might also experience joint or body aches, lack of appetite, and eye and vision problems. See a doctor immediately if you start experiencing: • severe abdominal cramping • rectal bleeding • chronic diarrhea • high fever • dehydration Risks of untreated UC Managing UC is key to protecting your health, both in the short and long term. Leaving it unmanaged could lead to complications, including: • osteoporosis • colorectal cancer • swollen colon, or "toxic megacolon" • bleeding or anemia Ulcerative colitis is manageable! Although living with this condition can be challenging, it's possible to maintain your quality of life. Finding effective treatments, making lifestyle changes, and working with UC experts can help you successfully manage your symptoms, so you can continue doing the things you love. If you're newly diagnosed or looking to build a better care team, consider using a resource like Healthgrades' Find a Doctor tool to connect with medical professionals and specialists who can help. Find A Doctor Now We'll be back in your inbox tomorrow with some next steps you can take to find relief, with a special focus on research-backed diet tips that may reduce your exposure to foods that trigger flare-ups. We'll see you then. Want to keep learning?   What to Know if You're Newly Diagnosed READ ON   Does Ulcerative Colitis Qualify as a Disability? READ ON   The Progression of Ulcerative Colitis READ ON Until next time, Take care of yourself, and we'll see you again soon! View in browser Did a friend send you this email? Subscribe here. To see all newsletters, click here. Privacy   |   Unsubscribe Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. Healthline does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment and should not be used as a substitute for medical advice from a healthcare professional. Healthline encourages you to make any treatment decisions with your healthcare professional. Healthline is owned by RVO Health. © 2024 RVO Health 1101 Red Ventures Drive Fort Mill, SC 29707