What is Ulcerative Colitis? Symptoms, Causes & Treatment

Understanding ulcerative colitis (UC) is the first step toward managing it with confidence.

About ulcerative colitis

Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that causes inflammation and ulcers in the lining of the large intestine (colon) and rectum. The inflammation typically begins in the rectum and extends continuously into the colon. Because ulcerative colitis affects everyone differently, symptoms and disease severity can vary from person to person.

Having a treatment plan and ongoing care can help reduce inflammation, manage symptoms, and support long-term health. Learn about your condition so you can make informed decisions with your healthcare team.

Overview Types of colitis

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Symptoms both within and outside of your gut

Common symptoms of ulcerative colitis include abdominal pain, diarrhea, blood in the stool, fatigue, weight loss, and an urgency to use the bathroom. Symptoms may come and go during periods of flare-ups and remission.

Some people may also experience joint pain, skin problems, eye inflammation, or other symptoms outside of the digestive tract. Keeping track of symptoms can help your doctor or healthcare professional monitor your condition.

Learn more Explore the GI Tract Guide

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Peter’s story

“This year marks fifteen years with my j-pouch. In 2011, I underwent emergency surgery to save me from an advanced case of ulcerative colitis that severely perforated my colon. My once-strong, resilient body was broken and beaten, and I feared I might never again be the athlete I had always been. But that fear didn’t become my reality.

[Recently] I completed my twelfth multisport event since getting sick. I’ve also run more than two dozen half-marathons and participated in several long-distance cycling events with Team Challenge.

UC wasn’t the life sentence I thought it might be when I was diagnosed. Thanks to the skill of my doctors and the support of the CCF community, I feel as healthy today as I ever have. I hope my story encourages others.”

Peter Stavros
Living with ulcerative colitis

Casual portrait of a middle aged man in white, collared shirt, smiling at the camera

What is ulcerative colitis?: Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that causes inflammation and ulcers in the lining of the large intestine (colon) and rectum. Unlike Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis affects only the colon and rectum, and the inflammation typically begins in the rectum and extends continuously into the colon. Common symptoms include diarrhea, blood in the stool, bowel urgency, abdominal pain, fatigue, and unintended weight loss. Because ulcerative colitis affects everyone differently, symptoms and disease severity can vary from person to person.
Living with ulcerative colitis can affect more than digestion alone. Many people experience emotional stress, fatigue, anxiety about flares, or difficulty navigating school, work, travel, and daily routines. The Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation provides educational resources, and support programs, to help patients and caregivers better understand and manage life with IBD.
What causes ulcerative colitis?: The exact cause of ulcerative colitis is still unknown, but researchers believe it develops from a combination of genetics, immune system dysfunction, environmental factors, and changes in the gut microbiome. In people with ulcerative colitis, the immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of the colon, leading to chronic inflammation.
Researchers continue studying possible contributing factors such as family history, infections, stress, diet, antibiotic exposure, and environmental conditions. While no single factor has been identified as the direct cause, ulcerative colitis is understood to result from multiple influences working together over time.
What happens during an ulcerative colitis flare?: An ulcerative colitis flare occurs when inflammation becomes more active and symptoms worsen. During a flare, people may experience increased diarrhea, blood in the stool, bowel urgency, abdominal pain, cramping, fatigue, fever, or reduced appetite.
Flares can sometimes feel unpredictable and emotionally exhausting, especially when symptoms interfere with work, school, sleep, or social activities. Learning to recognize symptom changes, identify potential triggers, and work closely with a healthcare professional can help people better manage flares and reduce their impact on daily life.
How does ulcerative colitis affect daily life?: Ulcerative colitis can affect many aspects of daily life beyond physical symptoms alone. People living with ulcerative colitis may need to manage frequent bathroom trips, bowel urgency, fatigue, dietary changes, medication schedules, and ongoing medical appointments. Symptoms can also affect work, school, travel, relationships, and mental health.
Many people describe the emotional side of IBD as one of the most challenging aspects of living with the condition. Feelings of stress, embarrassment, anxiety, or isolation are common, particularly during flares or after a new diagnosis. Support groups, educational resources, healthcare professionals, and patient communities can help people feel more informed, supported, and connected throughout their journey.
What should I do if I think I have ulcerative colitis?: If you are experiencing ongoing symptoms such as diarrhea, blood in the stool, bowel urgency, abdominal pain, fatigue, or unexplained weight loss, it is important to speak with a healthcare professional. Persistent symptoms should not be ignored, especially if they continue for several weeks or interfere with daily activities.
A healthcare professional may recommend testing or refer you to a gastroenterologist for further evaluation. Getting answers early can help determine whether symptoms are related to ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, or another digestive condition, allowing you to begin appropriate treatment and support as soon as possible.