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Ulcerative Colitis

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Definition

Ulcerative colitis is a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that affects the large intestine (colon) and rectum.

See also: Crohn's disease

Symptoms

  • Abdominal pain and cramping that usually disappears after a bowel movement
  • Abdominal sounds (a gurgling or splashing sound heard over the intestine)
  • Diarrhea, from only a few episodes to very often throughout the day (blood and mucus may be present)
  • Fever
  • Tenesmus (rectal pain)
  • Weight loss

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

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