Ulcerative Colitis

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 6, 2025.

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AMBULATORY CARE:

Ulcerative colitis

is a chronic disease of the colon (large intestine). Inflammation and ulcers form on the inner lining of your colon. Ulcerative colitis is a type of inflammatory bowel disease. It usually starts between the ages of 20 and 40 years old. You may have times when signs and symptoms will decrease or disappear (remission). You will need to continue treatment in times of remission.

Common signs and symptoms:

Signs and symptoms of ulcerative colitis may come and go. Your symptoms may get worse at times (flare). Medicines such as NSAIDs, certain foods, or emotional stress may trigger a flare. You may have any of the following:

• Blood or mucus in your bowel movements
• Bleeding from your rectum
• Feeling like you need to have a bowel movement after you just had one
• Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
• Abdominal tenderness and bloating
• Fever, loss of appetite, or weight loss without trying
• Feeling more mentally and physically tired than usual (fatigue)

Call your local emergency number (911 in the US) if:

• You have sudden trouble breathing.
• You have a fast heart rate, fast breathing, or are too dizzy to stand.

Seek care immediately if:

• You have severe abdominal pain.
• You vomit blood, or your vomit looks like coffee grounds.
• You have tar-colored bowel movements or you see blood in your bowel movements.

Drugs used to treat this and similar conditions

Call your doctor or gastroenterologist if:

• You have a fever, chills, a cough, or feel weak and achy.
• Your abdominal pain does not go away, even after treatment.
• Your abdomen is swollen.
• You lose weight without trying.
• You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.

Treatment:

• Medicines may be given to help decrease inflammation or control your immune system. You may need to take more than 1 medicine to treat your ulcerative colitis.
• Surgery may be needed to remove part or all of your colon. Ask about the different kinds of surgery that can be done to help your symptoms.

Treatment options

The following list of medications are related to or used in the treatment of this condition.

• Lialda
• Humira
• Entyvio
• mesalamine
• Stelara

View more treatment options

Self-care:

• Keep a record of everything you eat and drink. Include any symptoms the food or drink causes or makes worse. You may need to avoid certain foods. Dairy, alcohol, hot spices, and high-fiber foods are examples of foods that may worsen your symptoms. Your provider may recommend that you take vitamins or mineral supplements. Always ask your provider before you take vitamins or nutritional supplements.
• Do not take NSAID medicines. NSAIDs such as aspirin and ibuprofen can cause a flare.
• Take your medicines exactly as directed. This may help to keep your disease in remission.
• Drink liquids as directed. Ask how much liquid to drink each day and which liquids are best for you. Do not drink alcohol. This can make your symptoms worse.
• Be physically active. Physical activity, such as exercise, can help prevent constipation and keep your colon healthy. Ask your provider about the best exercise plan for you.
• Manage your stress. Stress may trigger your symptoms. Learn ways to relax, such as deep breathing or meditation.

Follow up with your doctor or gastroenterologist as directed:

Keep a written record of your bowel movements. Include the color, form, and if they were bloody. Bring the record to your follow-up visits. Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.

For support and more information:

• Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America, Inc.
  386 Park Avenue S, 17th Floor
  New York , NY 10016-8004
  Phone: 1- 800 - 932-2423
  Web Address: http://www.ccfa.org
  

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