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Ulcerative Colitis

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

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. You may have times when signs and symptoms will decrease or disappear (remission). You will need to continue treatment in times of remission.

Abdominal Organs

WHILE YOU ARE HERE:

Informed consent

is a legal document that explains the tests, treatments, or procedures that you may need. Informed consent means you understand what will be done and can make decisions about what you want. You give your permission when you sign the consent form. You can have someone sign this form for you if you are not able to sign it. You have the right to understand your medical care in words you know. Before you sign the consent form, understand the risks and benefits of what will be done. Make sure all your questions are answered.

You may be weighed each day.

Healthcare providers compare your weight from day to day to record how much body fluid you have. You can become dehydrated if you lose too much fluid. You can have shortness of breath or swelling in your legs if you retain (hold) too much fluid.

Medicines:

Treatment options

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

View more treatment options

Tests:

Surgery:

You may need surgery to help decrease your symptoms, correct problems, or to remove part or all of your colon.

RISKS:

Without treatment, you may develop a blockage in your colon or an infection in your intestines. Chronic inflammation may weaken the walls of your intestines and cause a hole to form. You may also develop other health problems, such as anemia, osteoporosis, colorectal cancer, and liver disease.

CARE AGREEMENT:

You have the right to help plan your care. Learn about your health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your healthcare providers to decide what care you want to receive. You always have the right to refuse treatment.

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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

Learn more about Ulcerative Colitis

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Symptoms and treatments

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.