Crohn’s and Colitis Awareness
What is Crohn’s and colitis?
Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis are the two main types of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
Each causes the gut to become inflamed (swollen) though the degree of inflammation can differ.
Colitis affects the colon and rectum, whilst Crohn’s can affect any part of the digestive tract from your mouth to your rectum.
Crohn’s and colitis symptoms
The symptoms of Crohn’s and colitis are chronic, which means they will be life-long, though they can change over time.
Symptoms include:
- Abdominal pain
- Stomach cramps
- Frequent diarrhoea
- Blood in your poo
- Reduced appetite
- Weight loss
- Tiredness (fatigue)
- Iron deficiency
- Feeling unwell with a fever
Your symptoms may disappear for a while (remission), or become more severe at times (flare-ups).
Diagnosing Crohn’s and colitis
Your gastroenterologist may carry out one or more of the following tests:
- Blood test
- Stool test
- Colonoscopy
- Gastroscopy
- Scans, such as MRI or X-Ray
During a colonoscopy or gastroscopy, your gastroenterologist may take a small tissue sample (biopsy) using an endoscope to help determine your diagnosis and get more information.
Crohn’s and colitis treatment
Currently, there is no cure for Crohn’s or colitis. Though, there are treatment options that can help you manage your condition.
We can use medications to relieve your symptoms, such as immunodepressants to control the immune system.
We will also recommend changes to your diet to prevent symptoms from returning.
You may need surgery. 20% of people with colitis require some form of surgery, though around 60-75% of people with Crohn’s need surgery at some point.
Book an appointment
Contact us for further information about Crohn’s and colitis and to book an initial in-person or remote consultation today.
Watch our videos on IBD, or visit our IBD page, for more information about Crohn’s and colitis awareness and treatment.
