Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a lifelong condition that causes inflammation and ulcers inside your colon (large intestine). UC is one of the most common types of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), alongside Crohn’s disease. This JAMA Patient Page describes the condition of ulcerative colitis and its symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options. Ulcerative colitis (UC) is one of the two types of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), with the other type being Crohn's disease. [1] It is a long-term condition that results in inflammation and ulcers of the colon and rectum. [1][7] The primary symptoms of active disease are abdominal pain and diarrhea mixed with blood (hematochezia). [1] In this video, we'll cover the basics of ulcerative colitis. What is it? Who gets it? The symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment. Whether you're looking for answers for yourself or someone you love, we're here to give you the best information available. NHS information about ulcerative colitis, a long-term condition that affects your large bowel (colon). Read about symptoms, flare-ups, how it's treated and things you can do yourself to help. Ulcerative colitis (UC) is an inflammatory bowel disease. It causes irritation, inflammation, and ulcers in the lining of your large intestine (also called your colon). Ulcerative colitis (UC) is the most common type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). It affects the inner lining of the colon and rectum, causing complete damage to the lining. People with UC often experience blood or mucous in their stool (poop) and feel an urgent need to empty their bowels. Medicines cannot cure ulcerative colitis, but they can control symptoms, reduce inflammation and help people stay in remission for long periods. The only true cure is surgery to remove the colon and rectum. Learn about the symptoms and treatment of ulcerative colitis, a chronic disease that causes inflammation and ulcers on the inner lining of the large intestine. Ulcerative colitis is a lifelong inflammatory disease affecting the rectum and colon to a variable extent. In 2023, the prevalence of ulcerative colitis was estimated to be 5 million cases around the world, and the incidence is increasing worldwide.