What Is Ulcerative Colitis?
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Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease limited to the colon (large intestine) and rectum. Unlike Crohn's disease, UC affects only the innermost lining (mucosa) of the colon and always begins in the rectum, extending continuously toward the right side of the colon. The extent of disease — proctitis (rectum only), left-sided colitis, or pancolitis (entire colon) — influences treatment decisions and cancer surveillance intervals.
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Ulcerative Colitis Symptoms
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Bloody diarrhea — the hallmark symptom of UC
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Urgency and frequency of bowel movements
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Abdominal cramping, especially before a bowel movement
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Tenesmus (feeling of incomplete evacuation)
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Fatigue, weight loss, and anemia during flares
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Extraintestinal manifestations: joint pain, eye inflammation, skin lesions, primary sclerosing cholangitis
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UC vs Crohn's Disease​
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Both are forms of inflammatory bowel disease, but they differ in location, depth of inflammation, and treatment approach. UC is limited to the colon's inner lining; Crohn's can affect any part of the GI tract through all layers of the bowel wall. An accurate diagnosis is essential for proper treatment — and our physicians use endoscopy with biopsy to distinguish between them.
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Treating Ulcerative Colitis
Treatment depends on disease extent and severity. Mild-to-moderate UC is often managed with aminosalicylates (mesalamine) delivered orally or rectally. Moderate-to-severe disease may require immunomodulators, biologic therapies, or JAK inhibitors. We offer in-office IV infusions for patients on vedolizumab, infliximab, and other IV biologics — saving patients multiple trips to infusion centers.
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Cancer Risk and Surveillance
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Patients with long-standing UC affecting much of the colon have an elevated risk of colorectal cancer. Surveillance colonoscopy is recommended beginning 8 years after diagnosis for patients with extensive colitis, with intervals based on disease extent and histologic findings. Our gastroenterologists manage individualized surveillance schedules for all UC patients.​
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Book a UC Consultation in NJ — Call (908) 851-2770 or Schedule Online