Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis are conditions that are grouped together and called inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Crohn's disease usually involves the small intestine and large intestine (colon) but can also be found in any part of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Ulcerative colitis causes inflammation and ulceration, but is limited to the colon. Ulcerative colitis involves the inner lining of the colon and differs from Crohn's disease that can involve the entire wall of the intestine.
The exact cause of IBD is unknown, however it is related to immune system malfunction. An abnormal immune system response attacks the lining of and the wall of the GI tract and subsequently becomes inflamed and ulcerated. Genetics are also involved as genes are inherited that increase the risk of developing IBD. For example, about 20% of people with Crohn's disease have a relative diagnosed with IBD. Ulcerative colitis is often found in people with a family history of the disease.
Symptoms of IBD:
- Abdominal pain, weight loss, rectal pain
- Bloody stools and diarrhea
- Fever
- Mouth sores
IBD is diagnosed with a variety of methods depending on your symptoms. Your health care team will review your symptoms and perform a physical exam, obtain blood and stool tests, and may perform imaging studies of the GI tract using computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans. Colonoscopy or endoscopy (to evaluate the upper portion of the GI tract including the stomach and first portion of the small intestine) are usually performed.
There are a variety of treatments for IBD and research into new methods of treatment continues to develop rapidly. You may work with a GI nutritionist to avoid certain foods that can cause abdominal discomfort, gas, bloating and diarrhea. Calcium, iron, B12 and vitamin D supplements may be recommended. Many medications are available including those that act as an anti-inflammatory and immune system suppressor. Biologics are a new type of treatment that inhibit portions of the immune system that attack the GI tract. The goal of treatment is to limit the inflammation in the GI tract, and achieve long-term remission.
People with IBD are more likely to develop colon cancer. However, studies show IBD related cancer has declined recently due to better screening techniques and newer treatments that decrease and prevent inflammation. Factors that also lower the risk of cancer include healthy habits such as regular physical activity, avoiding alcohol and smoking, good nutrition and routine colon cancer screenings with your healthcare team.