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Types of Ulcerative Colitis

Topic Overview

The severity of ulcerative colitis is determined by certain criteria.1 Ulcerative colitis can be classified as mild, moderate, severe, or fulminant (very severe), which may guide treatment choices.

People who have mild ulcerative colitis may have:

  • Fewer than four bowel movements (stools) a day.
  • No bleeding or a small amount of bleeding with stools.
  • Normal erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR).

People who have mild ulcerative colitis do not have fever, rapid heartbeat, or anemia.

People who have moderate ulcerative colitis may have:

  • More than four stools a day.
  • Mild elevation in ESR.

People who have severe ulcerative colitis may have:

  • More than six bloody stools a day (loose stools).
  • Fever, rapid heartbeat, and anemia.
  • An elevated ESR.

People who have fulminant ulcerative colitis may have:

  • More than 10 stools a day (loose stools).
  • Constant bleeding from the rectum.
  • Fever, rapid heartbeat, and anemia.
  • Cramping belly pain and bloating.
  • An expanded colon (as seen on an X-ray).
  • A need for blood transfusions.

Flare-ups can be so severe that they require hospitalization.

Related Information

References

Citations

  1. Kornbluth A, Sachar DB (2010). Ulcerative colitis practice guidelines in adults: American College of Gastroenterology, Practice Parameters Committee. American Journal of Gastroenterology, 105(3): 501–523. Available online: http://www.acg.gi.org/physicians/clinicalupdates.asp#guidelines.

Credits

By Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Arvydas D. Vanagunas, MD - Gastroenterology
Last Revised October 7, 2010

Last Revised: October 7, 2010

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine & Arvydas D. Vanagunas, MD - Gastroenterology

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