Ulcerative colitis is characterized by which of the following symptoms?

Ulcerative colitis is primarily characterized by bloody diarrhea, which is a hallmark symptom of this inflammatory bowel disease. This condition involves chronic inflammation and ulceration of the inner lining of the colon, leading to the frequent passage of stool that may contain blood and mucus. Individuals suffering from ulcerative colitis may experience urgency to defecate and the bowel movements can be frequent, often occurring multiple times a day.

The presence of blood in the stool is significant and distinguishes ulcerative colitis from other gastrointestinal disorders, making it a key diagnostic criterion. This symptom arises due to the damaged and inflamed intestinal lining, which can lead to vessel erosion and subsequent bleeding.

Other symptoms associated with ulcerative colitis may include abdominal pain and cramping, but the definitive and distinguishing feature recognized in this condition is the presence of bloody diarrhea.