Final answer:
Ulcerative colitis is an inflammatory bowel disease that primarily affects the colon and rectum. It causes inflammation and ulcers in the colon, leading to lower abdominal pain and bloody diarrhea. Treatment options include lifestyle changes, medications, and, in severe cases, surgical removal of the colon and rectum.
Step-by-step explanation:
Ulcerative colitis is an inflammatory bowel disease that primarily affects the colon and rectum. It causes inflammation and ulcers in the colon, leading to symptoms such as lower abdominal pain and bloody diarrhea. Unlike Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis does not typically affect other parts of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Lifestyle changes and medications can help manage the symptoms of ulcerative colitis, and in severe cases, surgical removal of the colon and rectum may be necessary.