Ulcerative Colitis
Ulcerative Colitis: The Basics
Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that affects the lining of the large intestine, causing inflammation and ulcers. The inflammation leads to symptoms such as abdominal discomfort, frequent bowel movements, and bloody stools. UC can develop gradually and has periods of remission and flare-ups. If left untreated, it can lead to severe complications such as malnutrition, a perforated colon, osteoporosis, liver disease, colorectal cancer, and toxic megacolon.