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Originally posted by Reak
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The disease usually begins in the rectal area and may eventually extend through the entire large bowel. Repeated episodes of inflammation lead to thickening of the wall of the intestine and rectum with scar tissue. Death of colon tissue or sepsis may occur with severe disease. The symptoms vary in severity and their onset may be gradual or sudden. Attacks may be provoked by many factors, including respiratory infections or stress.
Risk factors include a family history of ulcerative colitis or Jewish ancestry. The incidence is 10-15 out of 100,000 people.