Colitis and ulcerative colitis, although related, have distinct differences in their causes and health effects. Colitis is a broad term that refers to the inflammation of the colon, which can result from various factors such as infections, reduced blood flow, medications, or allergic reactions, leading to symptoms like abdominal pain and diarrhea. Ulcerative colitis, however, is a specific type of colitis categorized as an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). It is marked by chronic inflammation and ulcer formation on the inner lining of the colon and rectum, often resulting in more severe symptoms.