Not all patients with ulcerative colitis are treated the same way. Treatment depends on the location and severity of a patient' disease, the presence of complications and the patient's response to previous medications. The major goals of treatment are to induce and maintain remission. Therapy is aimed at quieting inflammation and relieving symptoms. Medical therapy can usually control symptoms, but surgery may be required when medical therapy fails or if signs of colon cancer develop.
Some people have long periods of remission, sometimes years when they are free of symptoms.
Unfortunately, the disease usually recurs at various times over an individual's lifetime. Although predicting when a flare-up may occur is not possible, early recognition of symptoms results in a better response to treatment. The treatment of ulcerative colitis depends on its severity, location and the presence of complications. It must be individualized. Most people have mild to moderate disease and are treated with medications containing mesalamine.