How Long Does It Take to Treat Colitis?

Colitis can be categorized into acute and chronic types based on its onset and progression. Acute colitis is often caused by bacterial infections or reduced blood flow to the colon. With appropriate treatment—including antibiotics, mucosal protection, hydration, and improved circulation—most patients recover within one to two weeks.

Chronic colitis, particularly ulcerative colitis, requires a long-term management approach. This form of the disease usually necessitates continuous medication for three to five years or even lifelong therapy to maintain remission. Some individuals may experience recurring flare-ups despite treatment. During active disease phases, medications such as aminosalicylates, corticosteroids, and biologic agents are used to induce remission, which typically occurs within one to two weeks. After achieving remission, ongoing maintenance therapy is essential to prevent relapse.

In severe cases, complications like toxic megacolon, massive bleeding, bowel perforation, or cancer development may occur. These situations often require surgical intervention, and delaying treatment can lead to life-threatening consequences.

Some patients experience persistent symptoms such as alternating diarrhea and constipation, along with abdominal pain, but show no significant abnormalities during colonoscopy. If other tests—such as abdominal CT scans, blood sugar levels, and thyroid function—are normal, the condition may be classified as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Treatment in these cases focuses on managing symptoms through gut motility regulation, microbiota balance, and anxiety reduction. This type of therapy often needs to be continued over a long period.