**Ulcerative colitis (UC)** is a long-term condition that results in [inflammation](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Inflammation) and [ulcers](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ulcer) of the [colon](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Large_intestine#Structure) and [rectum](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rectum). The primary symptoms of active disease are [abdominal pain](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Abdominal_pain) and [diarrhea](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diarrhea) mixed with blood. [Weight loss](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Weight_loss), [fever](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fever), and [anemia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anemia) may also occur. Often, symptoms come on slowly and can range from mild to severe. Symptoms typically occur intermittently with periods of no symptoms between flares. Complications may include abnormal dilation of the colon ([megacolon](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Megacolon)), inflammation of the eye, joints, or liver, and [colon cancer](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Colon_cancer).