Inflammatory bowel diseases: Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis
Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis are chronic diseases of the digestive system, collectively known as inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD). Although some symptoms are similar, there are fundamental differences between these two diseases. In this article, we will discuss in detail Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, their causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment.
Crohn’s disease
What is Crohn’s disease?
Crohn’s disease is a chronic disease that affects any part of the digestive system, from the mouth to the anus, but often affects the small intestine and colon. This disease is characterized by the occurrence of deep inflammation of the intestinal wall, which leads to the formation of ulcers and narrowing of the intestine.
Causes of Crohn’s disease:
- Genes: Genes play an important role in Crohn’s disease, as some genes increase the risk of developing it.
- Immune system: The immune system is thought to play an important role in the development of the disease, as the immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of the intestine.
- Environmental factors: Environmental factors, such as smoking, food quality, and infection, may contribute to the onset or exacerbation of the disease.
Symptoms of Crohn’s disease:
- Diarrhea: It is the most common symptom and may be accompanied by blood or mucus.
- Abdominal pain: Abdominal pain is often severe and persistent, and may improve after defecation.
- Weight loss: as a result of loss of appetite and difficulty absorbing nutrients.
- Fatigue and exhaustion: due to chronic inflammation and blood loss.
- Other symptoms: fever, vomiting, joint pain, skin infections.
Ulcerative colitis
What is ulcerative colitis?
Ulcerative colitis is a chronic disease that affects only the colorectum. It is characterized by superficial inflammation of the lining of the colon, which leads to the formation of ulcers.
Causes of ulcerative colitis:
- Genes: Genes play an important role in ulcerative colitis, as in Crohn’s disease.
- Immune system: The immune system is thought to play an important role in the development of the disease, as the immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of the colon.
- Environmental factors: Environmental factors, such as smoking, food quality, and infection, may contribute to the onset or exacerbation of the disease.
Symptoms of ulcerative colitis:
- Bloody and mucous diarrhea: the most common symptom.
- Abdominal pain: Abdominal pain is often mild to moderate intensity.
- Frequent need to defecate: especially at night.
- Weight loss: may occur in severe cases.
- Other symptoms: fatigue and fatigue, feeling nauseous, loss of appetite.
diagnosis
Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis are diagnosed based on the patient’s medical history, physical examination, and medical test results, which include:
- Blood analysis: to detect signs of inflammation and anemia.
- Stool analysis: to detect the presence of occult blood or pathogens.
- Colonoscopy: To examine the colon and rectum directly.
- CT scan: for detailed images of the intestine.
therapy
There’s no cure for Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, but symptoms can be controlled and reduced by:
- Medications: These include anti-inflammatory medications, antibiotics, and drugs that suppress the immune system.
- Nutrition: Eat a healthy and balanced diet, avoiding foods that increase intestinal irritation.
- Surgery: Surgery may be necessary in some severe cases, such as bowel obstruction or heavy bleeding.
The bottom line
Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis are chronic diseases that require ongoing medical care. Early diagnosis and proper treatment are important to improve the quality of life of patients.
Note: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for medical advice. Always consult your doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.
