Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a term mainly used to describe two diseases, ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease.
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a term mainly used to describe two diseases, ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease.
Both
and are long-term (chronic) diseases that involve inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract (gut).Ulcerative colitis only affects the colon (large intestine), while Crohn’s disease can affect the entire digestive system, from the mouth to the anus.
It is sometimes difficult to tell the difference between the two main types of IBD. If this is the case, it is known as indeterminate colitis.
There are other, rarer types of IBD called collagenous colitis and lymphocytic colitis. Together these are often called microscopic colitis.
The main symptoms of ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease are similar. They include:
Not everyone has all of these symptoms, and some people may experience additional symptoms, including nausea and fever.
The symptoms of IBD can come and go over long periods. People may experience periods of severe symptoms (flare-ups), and go through long periods when they have few or no symptoms at all (remission).
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The exact causes of ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease are unclear. It is thought that several factors may play a part, such as:
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There is currently no cure for ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease. Treatment aims to relieve symptoms and prevent them from returning.
Mild ulcerative colitis may not need treatment as symptoms can clear up after a few days.
Medications used to treat ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease may include:
An estimated 20% of people with ulcerative colitis have severe symptoms that often don't respond to medication. In these cases, it may be necessary to surgically remove an inflamed section of the digestive system.
Around 60-75% of people with Crohn’s disease will require surgery to repair damage to their digestive system and treat complications of the condition.
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IBD is usually diagnosed in people in their late teens or early 20s, but it can appear at any age.
IBD is more common in white people than in black people or those of Asian origin. The condition is most prevalent among Jewish people of European origin.
IBD affects slightly more women than men.
Important: Our website provides useful information but is not a substitute for medical advice. You should always seek the advice of your doctor when making decisions about your health.