Symptoms
Symptoms for Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis are related to the inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract (GI) tract.
- Frequent diarrhea with blood/mucus/pus
- Abdominal pain
- Abdominal cramping
- Dehydration
- Constipation
- Sensation of incomplete evacuation
People may also suffer general symptoms depending on disease severity.
- Fever
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Fatigue
- Night sweats
- Loss of menstrual cycle
- Fast heart beat
Description
Ulcerative Colitis and Crohn’s Disease are the two main types of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Although the symptoms of the diseases are similar, they are distinct conditions affecting different parts of the gastrointestinal tract. Both bowel diseases course of illness are characterized by flare-ups and relapses of inflammation.
Ulcerative Colitis
Inflammation is confined to the rectum and colon (large intestine). The lining of the large intestine becomes inflamed. Tiny sores called ulcers develop that excrete pus and mucus. This ulceration and inflammation causes abdominal pain and frequent emptying of the bowels.
Crohn’s Disease
Inflammation can affect the entire thickness of the bowel, not just the lining. Unlike ulcerative colitis, inflammation can occur in any part of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, from mouth to anus.
Causes
Ulcerative Colitis
The exact cause of the disease is unknown, although research has identified certain risk factors. Genetics are considered important, with a family history of ulcerative colitis being the most important risk factor. Environment is also relevant. The incidence is higher in developed countries where improved sanitation reduces exposure to infections during childhood. This causes the cells in the large intestine to develop a restricted maturity, resulting in an inappropriate response to outside microorganisms later in life. Previous infections to the GI tract, such as salmonella, double the risk of development. The previous infection causes changes to the natural bacteria in the gut, inducing the chronic inflammatory process.
Crohn’s Disease
Development is not determined by a cause and effect. In a healthy GI tract, cell lining can control inflammation. It can respond to diet and bacteria appropriately, as well as protect against any threats to immunity. In Crohn’s disease, the GI tract experiences uncontrolled inflammation. The body has an immune response to its own tissue. This is caused by a complex interaction of genetic disposition, bacteria presence, and immune dysfunction.
Treatment
Ulcerative Colitis
Primary treatment addresses the symptoms of the disease. Treatment is then planned and managed to prevent future flare-ups, hospital admissions, and surgery. Intestinal healing is given a high priority, as it greatly affects the patient's quality of life.
- Pharmacological Management
The typical drugs used to treat ulcerative colitis are mesalamine (Lialda*), corticosteroids, immunosuppressive drugs, and monoclonal antibody drugs. Drug selection varies greatly as symptoms, disease, and prognosis differ considerably between individuals.
- Surgical Management
Although ulcerative colitis can be managed successfully with medication alone, approximately 20-30% of people will need surgery. Indications for surgery are divided into emergency, urgent, and elective. Emergency surgery is needed when the person’s life is threatened. Urgent surgery is needed when the ulcerative colitis is not responding to intense medical treatment. Elective surgery is usually needed for colorectal cancers. Surgery aims to improve the person’s quality of life, by removing the part of the large intestine that is inflamed.
Crohn’s Disease
Treatment approach is similar to ulcerative colitis.
- Pharmacological Management
Common drugs used are aminosalicylates, corticosteroids, immunomodulators, antibiotics, and biologic therapies. Drug choice will depend on each individual case of Crohn’s disease. Creating a drug protocol to suit everyone is difficult, as disease advancement varies.
- Surgical Management
As surgery cannot cure Crohn’s disease, its use is restricted. It can be effective for those who have flare-ups of Crohn’s disease confined to one area of the GI tract.
- Lifestyle
Smokers are encouraged to give up smoking, as it aggravates the disease.