Know What
Ulcerative Colitis Progression Means
UC is chronic and changes can happen over time.
Symptoms vary for every person living with UC. And know that symptoms may range from mild, to moderate, to severe—and can also change over time. People with UC can go through times when the disease is controlled (with few or no symptoms) or they may go through times of active disease that causes symptoms (flares).
Looking at Symptom Control and Relapses of UC
In a typical year:
of people with ulcerative colitis have symptoms under control
experience mild disease activity
experience moderate disease activity
experience severe disease
The longer a person with UC maintains symptom control, the less likely he or she is to experience a relapse, or flare-up, in the following year.
Learn about treatment options for ulcerative colitis.
I do miss out a lot but you’ve got to realize that’s always going to be with you. You can’t ignore it.
How Serious Is Ulcerative Colitis?
Serious complications are possible. Complications of UC are referred to as local or systemic.
- "Local” refers to complications involving the large intestine (colon)
- “Systemic” (or extraintestinal) refers to complications that affect other organs or the whole body
Complications may occur when intestinal inflammation is:
- Severe
- Widespread
- Chronic
- Extending beyond the inner lining of the intestines
Can You Die From Ulcerative Colitis?
While it's uncommon to die specifically from ulcerative colitis or its complications, people with UC have a slightly higher overall mortality rate compared to the general healthy population.
You and Your Care Team Are in Control
While there is no cure for UC—while also knowing it can progress and symptoms can get worse over time—it’s important to remember that you and your doctor can get your disease under control. Recognizing the signs early and getting treatment right away is key. That’s why having open conversations with your doctor and being prepared for every appointment is crucial to managing your UC.
Speak openly with your doctor about how much your UC is truly impacting you. Make a personal action plan to see how much of your time your disease is affecting and get customized steps to help you and your doctor get control of your disease.
