Inflammatory Bowel Disease



Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Inflammatory bowel disease is an umbrella term that includes chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, primarily ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. The onset of inflammatory bowel disease is typically between the ages of 15 and 30. 

Ulcerative colitis is an inflammatory disease of the large intestine, or colon. In ulcerative colitis, the inner lining or mucosa of the intestine becomes red and swollen and develops open, painful wounds. Ulcerative colitis is often the most severe in the rectal area, which can cause frequent diarrhea.

Crohn’s disease differs from ulcerative colitis as it can affect any part of the digestive tract. Crohn’s disease causes inflammation that extends much deeper into the layers of the intestinal wall, whereas ulcerative colitis affects only the lining of the bowel.

The most common symptoms of Crohn’s disease include abdominal pain, cramping, fatigue and diarrhea. Other complications associated with Crohn’s disease include skin rashes, arthritis, and sometimes even inflammation of the eyes. Flares may occur every few months or years. Over time, when the disease is active, bowel function gradually deteriorates and often results in surgery being required.

 

To top of page

Tip a friend

Fill in the form below to tip a friend about this page.






Subscribe

When this page is updated you will be updated by e-mail.



Related links