Ulcerative colitis (UL-sur-uh-tiv koe-LIE-tis) is
an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
that causes inflammation and ulcers (sores) in your digestive tract. Ulcerative colitis affects the innermost lining of your large intestine (colon) and rectum. Symptoms usually develop over time, rather than suddenly.
How does a person get colitis?
Colitis is a chronic digestive disease characterized by
inflammation of the inner lining of the colon
. Infection, loss of blood supply in the colon, Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) and invasion of the colon wall with collagen or lymphocytic white blood cells are all possible causes of an inflamed colon.
What is the life expectancy of someone with ulcerative colitis?
The life expectancy of patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) is
usually the same as anybody without the disease
. UC is a lifelong disease with periods of flareups and remission (periods without symptoms, which may last for weeks or years).
Is UC a serious disease?
Ulcerative colitis is a lifelong condition that you have to manage, rather than a life-threatening illness. Still, it's
a serious disease that can cause some dangerous complications
, especially if you don't get the right treatment.
Why did I get UC?
What Causes Ulcerative Colitis? The
exact cause isn't clear
. But researchers think your immune system — which defends you from germs — is involved. When you have UC, your immune system may not react like it should to bacteria in your digestive tract.
Does ulcerative colitis get worse with age?
Ulcerative colitis
symptoms often get worse over time
. In the beginning, you may notice: Diarrhea or urgent bowel movements. Abdominal (belly) cramping.
Which is worse colitis or Crohn's?
Although both Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis are chronic diseases,
UC may be considered “worse
,” as people with extensive and severe ulcerative colitis may require surgery. People over age 50 that need surgery have increased mortality due to colitis-associated postoperative complications.
Does colitis go away on its own?
Relief from microscopic colitis can occur with medication.
In some cases, it can go away on its own
. Ischemic colitis may be more serious and require hospitalization. IV fluids can then be administered to the patient to prevent infection.
Can colitis come on suddenly?
Colitis is inflammation of your colon, also known as your large intestine. If you have colitis, you'll feel discomfort and pain in your abdomen that may be mild and reoccurring over a long period of time, or
severe
and appearing suddenly.
Does stress cause colitis?
There's no evidence stress causes ulcerative colitis
(UC). But if you have UC, you probably already know it can worsen your symptoms or bring on a flare.
What percentage of UC patients need surgery?
Approximately 20%
of patients with UC will require surgery during the course of their disease. The rate of colectomy after a disease duration of 10 years is at approximately 16%. Unlike Crohn's disease, UC is principally surgically curable since it is naturally limited to the colon and rectum.
Can I live a normal life with ulcerative colitis?
Even during times of remission, it is important to continue taking medications and seeing your doctor regularly. Studies show that
people with UC usually have the same life expectancy as people without UC
. It is important to remember that most people who have ulcerative colitis lead full, happy, and productive lives.
Is ulcerative colitis a disability?
The Disability Tax Credit for Those with Ulcerative Colitis
The CRA recognizes
colitis as a potentially disabling disease
which means you may be able to find both short and long term financial relief if your application for benefits is accepted.
Can you have colitis without bleeding?
In milder flare-ups the main symptom may be
diarrhea or looser stools
without blood. Very rarely, when the inflammation is severe, digestive gases may get trapped in the colon, making it swell up. This is known as toxic megacolon and it can cause a high fever as well as pain and tenderness in the abdomen.
What organs does ulcerative colitis affect?
Ulcerative colitis is part of a group of diseases called inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). It is when the lining of your
large intestine
(the colon or large bowel) and your rectum become red and swollen (inflamed). In most cases the inflammation begins in your rectum and lower intestine and moves up to the whole colon.
How painful is ulcerative colitis?
Abdominal cramping and mild to severe pain in both the abdomen and rectum
are common. The pain may be long-lasting, or it may fade when the inflammation recedes. Long periods of remission between flare-ups are common. During remission, your symptoms may decrease or disappear completely.
