Long-term disorders causing digestive tract inflammation include Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Combined, they are referred to as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
Ulcerative colitis targets only the colon and rectum of the large intestine. It causes the inner lining to become irritated and produce sores (ulcers), which results in symptoms like abdominal discomfort, diarrhea, and sometimes blood in the stool.
From the mouth to the anus, Crohn’s disease may compromise any section of the digestive system. Crohn’s disease has the ability to bypass certain parts of the digestive system, causing inflammation in some areas while leaving others unaffected, and it frequently penetrates deeper into the intestinal wall.
The immune system mistakenly targets the digestive tract in both disorders. Though the precise reason is unknown, gut flora, environment, and genes might all have some role.
Gastroenterologist Pratima Dibba, MD, MBA, and host Alexa Mieses Malchuk, MD, MPH, FAAFP provide ideas on multidisciplinary techniques for managing treatment of ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. Listen and see the podcast on MedCentral
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