🩺 Ulcerative Colitis (UC)

Questions & Answers for Patients

❓ What is ulcerative colitis?

🦠 Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a disease that causes swelling and sores in the large intestine (colon).

It is a long-term condition, but it can be controlled with treatment.

❓ Which part of the body does UC affect?

📍 UC affects:

• The colon

• The rectum

It does not affect the small intestine like some other bowel diseases.

❓ What causes ulcerative colitis?

🤔 Doctors are not sure of the exact cause.

It may happen because:

• The immune system attacks the colon by mistake

• Genes run in families

• Certain triggers cause inflammation

❓ What are common symptoms of UC?

🚽 Common symptoms include:

• Diarrhea

• Blood or mucus in stool

• Belly pain or cramps

• Urgent need to use the bathroom

• Tiredness

• Weight loss

❓ What is a UC flare-up?

🔥 A flare-up is when symptoms get worse.

During a flare, you may have:

• More diarrhea

• More bleeding

• More pain

❓ What is remission?

🌈 Remission means:

• Symptoms are mild or gone

• The colon is healing

Many people with UC have long periods of remission.

❓ How is ulcerative colitis diagnosed?

🔍 Doctors may use:

• Blood tests

• Stool tests

• Colonoscopy (a camera test to look inside the colon)

• Biopsies (small tissue samples)

❓ How is ulcerative colitis treated?

💊 Treatment helps calm the inflammation.

Treatment may include:

• Medicines to reduce swelling

• Medicines to control the immune system

• Diet changes

• In some cases, surgery

❓ What foods may bother UC?

🍔 Some foods can make symptoms worse during flares:

• Spicy foods

• Fried foods

• Dairy

• High-fiber foods

Your doctor or dietitian can help guide you.

❓ Can UC be cured?

❌ There is no cure yet.

✅ But with treatment, most people live full, active lives.

❓ When should I call my doctor?

📞 Call your doctor if you have:

• Heavy bleeding

• Severe belly pain

• Fever

• Many bowel movements a day

• Symptoms that are getting worse

✅ Key Things to Remember

✔ UC affects the large intestine
✔ Symptoms come and go
✔ Treatment helps control inflammation
✔ Regular doctor visits are important