THE NATURAL-HISTORY OF ULCERATIVE-COLITIS

The majority of patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) will run a typic al chronic, relapsing course. The proportion with chronic, continuous symptoms diminishes with time. The greatest impact of the disease is i n the first few years after diagnosis, especially in patients with ext ensive or severe colitis. After this time, the likelihood of requiring surgery declines rapidly, and survival is no different from that of t he general population. The long-term course can be best predicted by t he course in the preceding period, Most patients are able to lead an e ssentially normal lifestyle, at work and at home, with either medical or surgical treatment. Awareness of how the patient feels the disease affects his or her life is important. Educating the patient about thei r illness will also help in management.