Crohn's Diseases
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Crohn's disease is generally characterized by the formation of ulcers (open sores) anywhere in the small and large intestines (commonly known as the colon). Ulcerative colitis on the other hand is characterized by formation of ulcers mainly in the lower portions of the large colon. The differentiating feature is between Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis is the area that is affected by these two disorders. While Crohn's disease does not affect the rectum or may only affect the regions around the rectum, the ulcers associated with ulcerative colitis often begin at the rectum and extend to the other regions of the large intestine (especially the lowermost regions). Another distinguishing feature between these two disorders lies in the curability. While surgery can cure ulcerative colitis in most instances, there is no cure for Crohn’s disease (only symptoms can be treated effectively).
Treatment:
Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis are chronic disorders that persist for a long duration. However, effective treatment can generally result in complete recovery from the symptoms of IBD and the individual can lead a normal life.
Anti-inflammatory drugs and drugs to suppress the body’s immune system are generally the first line of treatment of mild to moderate IBD. These help in reduction of the inflammation in the colon and thereby decrease other associated symptoms.
Administration of medications that belong to the group of anti-diarrheals, laxatives, and pain relievers are also commonly advised for individuals suffering from mild to moderate forms of IBD. Antibiotic medications may be advised if any underlying infection is suspected or identified during the diagnostic procedures.
A well balanced diet that supplies adequate amounts of calories, vitamins, minerals and other essential nutrients should be consumed to prevent the occurrence of malnutrition. Adequate consumption of water and other fluids is also advised.
Severe cases of IBD may require hospital admission for appropriate care and prevention of complications. Surgery may be advised in some severe cases of ulcerative colitis wherein removal of the affected portion can often cure the condition. However, a similar result cannot be obtained with Crohn’s disease and hence, surgery is reserved as a last option for treatment of Crohn’s disease.
Treatment:
Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis are chronic disorders that persist for a long duration. However, effective treatment can generally result in complete recovery from the symptoms of IBD and the individual can lead a normal life.
Anti-inflammatory drugs and drugs to suppress the body’s immune system are generally the first line of treatment of mild to moderate IBD. These help in reduction of the inflammation in the colon and thereby decrease other associated symptoms.
Administration of medications that belong to the group of anti-diarrheals, laxatives, and pain relievers are also commonly advised for individuals suffering from mild to moderate forms of IBD. Antibiotic medications may be advised if any underlying infection is suspected or identified during the diagnostic procedures.
A well balanced diet that supplies adequate amounts of calories, vitamins, minerals and other essential nutrients should be consumed to prevent the occurrence of malnutrition. Adequate consumption of water and other fluids is also advised.
Severe cases of IBD may require hospital admission for appropriate care and prevention of complications. Surgery may be advised in some severe cases of ulcerative colitis wherein removal of the affected portion can often cure the condition. However, a similar result cannot be obtained with Crohn’s disease and hence, surgery is reserved as a last option for treatment of Crohn’s disease.
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