What is Ulcerative Colitis?

Ulcerative Colitis is a condition that causes inflammation and ulceration of the lining of the colon
and rectum, which make up the large bowel or intestine. Inflammation is the body’s reaction to
injury or irritation and can also cause redness, swelling and pain. Tiny open sores, or ulcers,
develop on the surface of the lining, which may bleed and produce pus. When the lining
becomes inflamed it produces extra mucus.

Inflammation usually begins in the rectum and lower colon, but it may affect the entire colon. If
UC only affects the rectum, it is called proctitis.

Ulcerative Colitis is one of the two main Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBD); the other being
Crohn’s Disease. IBD is not the same as IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome). IBS can cause similar
symptoms, but there is no bleeding, ulceration or inflammation. IBD is not infectious.

UC is sometimes described as a chronic condition. This means that it is ongoing and usually
lasts throughout your life, but you may have long periods of good health, alternating with times
when your symptoms flare up.

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