Quick Overview of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) - Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Collitus

Inflammatory Bowel Disease is a general categorization for multiple diseases that are distinguished by an abnormal immune response found in the digestive tract. Often healthy microbes such as certain types of bacteria are mis recognized, and the immune system responds by sending white blood cells to the intestinal lining. This immune response unfortunately results in chronic inflammation causing further damage throughout the digestive tract such as blockages, ulcers, and malnutrition. IBDs do not exhibit a "clear cut pattern of inheritable", but are a result of multiple factors: genetics, the immune system, and the environment. High rates of prevalence are found in white European races and also in Jews. Often 10%-20% affected patients have a relative with the same disorder. The two major diseases belonging to this IBD category are Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Collitus. The symptoms between the two are somewhat similar.

Crohn's Disease is usually found to effect the smaller intestine and upper colon, throughout all layers of the intestinal lining (the entire thickness of the bowel wall). Diagnosis often occurs in children and young adults. Since there is not a specific cure for Crohn's disease, treatment consists of suppressing the immune response and treating the symptoms (with various drugs and medications) in the hopes of allowing the affected intestinal tissue to heal. Once the symptoms are brought somewhat under control, treatments are aimed to prevent future flare ups. In response to the chronic inflammation the bowel wall can thicken as a result of scar tissue formation, thus narrowing the passageway. Deep ulcers can also further develop into fistulas; which become tracts that can burrow into surrounding tissues such as the bladder, vagina or skin. These fistulas can result in further infection and if large enough, have to be repaired through surgery.

Ulcerative Collitus is often isolated to affecting the superficial layers (mucosa) of the colon. Sores and Ulcers are created on the mucosa of the colon and can result in pus production and bleeding. The different types of Ulcerative Collitus are identified by the area of the colon that is effected. Ulcerative Collitus can be set apart from Crohn's disease in that it affects the tissue in a continuous manner. On average the age of diagnosis is mid 30's and is more commonly found in men. Symptoms are very similar to Crohn's Disease and include abdominal cramping, bloody loose stools, diarrhea, appetite and weight loss, nausea, and fever. Treatments include medications, antibiotics, adjustments to diet, nutritional supplements, and also surgery.

Here is a clear and interactive website from the CCFA - Crohn's and Collitus Foundation of American. This website describes the cause, symptoms, treatments, medication details, and latest procedures used in the treatment of IBDs. Take a look because it presents a very nice overview of the disease.

http://www.ccfa.org/