Crohn's Disease And Colitis Specialist

What are Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis?

The two most common inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) are Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Both conditions occur when the immune system mistakes food or bacteria as a foreign substance and creates an “attack” response by sending white blood cells to the digestive tract. This causes chronic inflammation.

Ulcerative colitis causes inflammation only in the inner lining of the large intestine. Crohn’s disease can cause inflammation anywhere in the digestive tract and can affect all layers of the bowel wall, not just the lining.

The two conditions are often lumped together or mistaken for one another as they share common symptoms. Their differences, however, could set them apart in how they need to be treated.

What are the symptoms of Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis?

The symptoms of both Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis can create gastrointestinal discomfort that comes and goes, sometimes flaring up after you consume certain foods or during times of stress. The most common shared symptoms of these conditions are:

• Abdominal pain or cramps
• Chronic diarrhea or constipation
• Fever
• Fatigue
• Unexplained weight loss
• Urgent need to have a bowel movement
• Decreased appetite

If you’re a woman, these conditions can also cause disruptions in your menstrual cycle.

How are Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis treated?

Treatment for these two conditions can overlap, given their similar symptoms. Approaches to healing may include:

Diet and lifestyle changes

Everything from stress management and exercise can help you manage your symptoms and heal. You might also need to avoid certain substances and eliminate foods that cause inflammation.

Medications

Certain medications that regulate your immune system and decrease inflammation might be helpful if you have Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis.

Surgery

In rarer cases, you may need surgery if part of your digestive tract is torn, inflamed, or compromised.

While finding the right treatment for Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis can seem overwhelming, you can manage these conditions with a proper diagnosis.

To schedule an appointment with Southwest Gastroenterology and find relief from inflammatory bowel disease, call the office or use the secure online booking feature.