Inflammatory bowel syndrome (IBS) affects close to three million people in the United States. But there still seems to be some confusion about what exactly is IBS and how to manage this condition.

What is Crohn’s disease?

Named after the doctor who first gave an account of it in 1932, Crohn’s disease is one of the most common type of inflammatory bowel disease. Inflammation from Crohn’s disease can happen anywhere in the gastrointestinal tract. But typically happens in the upper colon and lower part of the small bowel.

Small pieces of inflammation are dispersed within healthy portions of the gut. Which can then penetrate the layers of the intestinal wall.

The mesentery can also be affected, this is the tissue that holds the abdomen to the small bowel. It contains the lymph glands and intestinal blood vessels.

Usually, Crohn’s disease is managed with medication, reducing flare ups.

What is ulcerative colitis?

Ulcerative colitis affects the large intestine (colon), including the anus and rectum. Inflammation affects the inner lining of the bowel tissue. Typically starting at the rectum, then spreading through the colon.

Medication is used to control Colitis, but in severe cases, surgery may be necessary.

Ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease are similar in many ways, but there are some differences.

Rectal bleeding or blood in the stool, false urges, or a sense of urgency, is more common in ulcerative colitis.

Sores around the anus and in the mouth occur in Crohn’s disease more often.

Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis affect men and women equally.

Although, both diseases can happen at any age, they typically develop in teenage and young adults.

Contributing factors of both diseases are genetic, environmental, and inappropriate response by the body’s immune system.

Crohn’s disease can occur anywhere between the anus and mouth, while ulcerative colitis occurs in the colon.

Complications

Both Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis have similar complications. According to the Mayo Clinic, these complications include:

Colon cancer. Having ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease that affects most of your colon can increase your risk of colon cancer. Screening for cancer begins usually about eight to 10 years after the diagnosis is made. Ask your doctor when and how frequently you need to have this test done.

Skin, eye and joint inflammation. Certain disorders, including arthritis, skin lesions and eye inflammation (uveitis), may occur during IBD flare-ups.

Medication side effects. Certain medications for IBD are associated with a small risk of developing certain cancers. Corticosteroids can be associated with a risk of osteoporosis, high blood pressure and other conditions.

Primary sclerosing cholangitis. In this condition, inflammation causes scarring within the bile ducts, eventually making them narrow and gradually causing liver damage.

Blood clots. IBD increases the risk of blood clots in veins and arteries.

When to see a doctor

If you have a you experience any signs of IBS or a persistent change in bowel habits, you should see a doctor. These symptoms can also be an indication of something more serious.

Treating inflammatory bowel disease

The goal of Gastroenterologist Consultants of Central Florida is to improve your quality of life by effectively manage your inflammatory bowel condition.

Treatment for inflammatory bowel disease, ulcerative colitis, and Crohn’s disease, is highly individualized. Not one treatment works for everyone.