EMMED

Definition

Ulcerative colitis is a condition in which the lining of the large intestine (colon) and rectum become inflamed. It is a form of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Crohn disease is a related condition.

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Causes

The cause of ulcerative colitis is unknown. People with this condition have problems with their immune system. However, it is not clear if immune problems cause this illness. Stress and certain foods can trigger symptoms, but they do not cause ulcerative colitis.

Ulcerative colitis may affect any age group. There are peaks at ages 15 to 30 and then again at ages 50 to 70.

The disease begins in the rectal area. It may stay in the rectum or spread to higher areas of the large intestine. However, the disease does not skip areas. It may involve the entire large intestine over time.

Risk factors include a family history of ulcerative colitis or other autoimmune diseases, or Jewish ancestry.

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Symptoms

The symptoms can be more or less severe. They may start slowly or suddenly. Half of people only have mild symptoms. Others have more severe attacks that occur more often. Many factors can lead to attacks.

Symptoms may include:

• Pain in the abdomen (belly area) and cramping.

• A gurgling or splashing sound heard over the intestine.

• Blood and possibly pus in the stools.

• Diarrhea, from only a few episodes to very often.

• Fever.

• Feeling that you need to pass stools, even though your bowels are already empty. It may involve straining, pain, and cramping (tenesmus).

• Weight loss.

Children's growth may slow.

Other symptoms that may occur with ulcerative colitis include the following:

• Joint pain and swelling

• Mouth sores (ulcers)

• Nausea and vomiting

• Skin lumps or ulcers