Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Treatment of Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis

Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis have a couple of things in common. Both are marked by an abnormal response by the body's immune system to microbes - normal intestinal bacteria - resulting in chronic inflammation in the digestive tract, and both can be painful and debilitating and sometimes may lead to life-threatening complications.

Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis are separate inflammatory bowel diseases, but are generally grouped together because of their similar symptoms: fever, abdominal pain (sometimes excruciating), loss of appetite, weight loss, and diarrhea accompanied by rectal bleeding and dehydration. Because of such similar symptoms, it's sometimes difficult for a doctor to quickly diagnose which disease a patient has.

The cause of these diseases is primarily theory. Scientists have determined that flare-ups seem to be more frequent in the spring and the fall, and the most common age of onset is 20 years old. Males and females seem to be affected similarly, but Caucasians have a higher risk of developing one disease or the other. According to a recent study by the Mayo Clinic, as many as 200 in every 100,000 people are affected by inflammatory bowel disease.

Despite the similarities in symptoms and prevalence, Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis affect the digestive tract differently.

Crohn's disease can cause inflammation anywhere along the digestive tract, from inside the mouth to the anus. However, the most common form affects the lower end of the small intestine and the colon. Ulcerative colitis usually affects only the innermost lining of the large intestine (colon) and rectum. Crohn's disease sufferers typically have sudden abdominal pain after eating, diarrhea, and weight loss. The abdomen may also be very tender as a result of the inflammation. Those with ulcerative colitis usually have more rectal bleeding, abdominal pain and cramping without a bowel movement, or instances of diarrhea several times a day. The abdomen may be distended and tender, as well.

There's no known medical cure for either Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis. However, therapies are available that may reduce the signs and symptoms, as well as put the diseases into long-term remission.

Most doctors will first attempt to reduce the inflammation within the digestive tract with anti-inflammatory drugs. In some cases, this is sufficient to bring relief and put the inflammatory bowel disease into remission. Immune system suppressors and antibiotics may also be administered. In severe cases, surgery to remove or repair any damaged areas of the digestive tract may be recommended. Regardless of the treatment plan, inflammatory bowel disease often recurs and can be a lifelong battle; however, new therapies are being developed all the time.

Most sufferers of an inflammatory bowel disease find it difficult to talk about. To have a support system and the ability to share information and concerns with other sufferers can be extremely helpful. If you or someone you know suffers from either Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis, support and information are available through the national Crohn's and Colitis Foundation. The toll-free number is 1-888-422-3266.