Types of Ulcerative Colitis

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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.

By: Healthwise StaffLast Revised: October 7, 2010
Medical Review: Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Arvydas D. Vanagunas, MD - Gastroenterology

© 1995-2011 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated. This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.

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