Colitis Fact Sheet
Ulcerative Colitis is a chronic (ongoing) disease of the colon, or large intestine. The disease is marked by inflammation and ulceration of the colon mucosa, or innermost lining. Tiny open sores, or ulcers, form on the surface of the lining, where they bleed and produce pus and mucus. Because the inflammation makes the colon empty frequently, symptoms typically include diarrhea (sometimes bloody) and often crampy abdominal pain.
The first symptom of ulcerative colitis is a progressive loosening of the stool. The stool is generally bloody and may be associated with crampy abdominal pain and severe urgency to have a bowel movement. The diarrhea may begin slowly or quite suddenly. Loss of appetite and subsequent weight loss are common, as is fatigue. In cases of severe bleeding, anemia may also occur.
Approximately half of all patients with ulcerative colitis have relatively mild symptoms. However, others may suffer from severe abdominal cramping, bloody diarrhea, nausea, and fever. The symptoms of ulcerative colitis do tend to come and go, with fairly long periods in between flare-ups in which patients may experience no distress at all. These periods of remission can span months or even years, although symptoms do eventually return. The symptoms of ulcerative colitis will vary depending on the extent of inflammation in the rectum and the colon of the patient.
While ulcerative colitis is a serious chronic disease, it is not considered a fatal illness. Most people with the illness may continue to lead productive lives (in between flare-ups of the disease), but they may be hospitalized from time to time, or need to take medication to help ease their suffering. Many individuals may feel well and can be relatively free of symptoms for a few months. But again, everyone is different. Always remember though, that people with ulcerative colitis are not alone. Many people suffer with IBD and are trying to cope with the illness everyday. But, by joining a support group or sharing your feelings with family or friends, you can be strengthened and healed by their help and support.
To find support groups or other web sites of interest, please click here.
Maybe you could try a new diet, such as The Specific Carboydrate Diet™ which helps heal your body from within, by eating nutritious foods. Please click here for more information about this diet.
