Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that causes inflammation and ulcers in the lining of the co lon (large intestine) and rectum.
The cause of ulcerative colitis is not known, but, like other inflammatory bowel diseases, there may be a link between:
Common symptoms of ulcerative colitis include:
To diagnose ulcerative colitis, your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical exam.
Tests may include:
The following treatment options can help to control or prevent the severity of ulcerative colitis symptoms.
Many types of medicines are available to treat ulcerative colitis, such as:
Avoiding certain foods may help ease symptoms.
These foods are different for each person, but may include:
Surgery for ulcerative colitis:
After removal of the colon, you may have a permanent end ileostomy (stoma bag) or an ileal pouch anal anastomosis (no external bag).
Contact Us To schedule an appointment with an IBD subspecialist gastroenterologist, call 412-624-7692. To learn more about the UPMC Digestive Disorders Center, call toll free, 1-866-4GASTRO (1-866-422-7876).
To schedule an appointment with an IBD subspecialist gastroenterologist, call 412-624-7692. To learn more about the UPMC Digestive Disorders Center, call toll free, 1-866-4GASTRO (1-866-422-7876).
For help in finding a doctor or health service that suits your needs, call the UPMC Referral Service at 412-647-UPMC (8762) or 1-800-533-UPMC (8762). Select option 1.
UPMC is an equal opportunity employer. UPMC policy prohibits discrimination or harassment on the basis of race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, age, sex, genetics, sexual orientation, marital status, familial status, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected group status. Further, UPMC will continue to support and promote equal employment opportunity, human dignity, and racial, ethnic, and cultural diversity. This policy applies to admissions, employment, and access to and treatment in UPMC programs and activities. This commitment is made by UPMC in accordance with federal, state, and/or local laws and regulations.
Medical information made available on UPMC.com is not intended to be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. You should not rely entirely on this information for your health care needs. Ask your own doctor or health care provider any specific medical questions that you have. Further, UPMC.com is not a tool to be used in the case of an emergency. If an emergency arises, you should seek appropriate emergency medical services.
For UPMC Mercy Patients: As a Catholic hospital, UPMC Mercy abides by the Ethical and Religious Directives for Catholic Health Care Services, as determined by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops. As such, UPMC Mercy neither endorses nor provides medical practices and/or procedures that contradict the moral teachings of the Roman Catholic Church.
© UPMC Pittsburgh, PA, USA UPMC.com