Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, collectively known as inflammatory bowel disease, affect millions of Americans. These chronic diseases can be very serious and debilitating for those living with them.
In honor of Crohn’s and Colitis Awareness Week, we sat down with Suzannah Luft, MD, gastroenterologist and obesity medicine specialist at Cheshire Medical Center, to learn more about these diseases.
What is Crohn’s disease and what is ulcerative colitis?
Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis are two types of inflammatory bowel diseases. This occurs when a person’s immune system is attacking their gastrointestinal (GI) tract lining, causing inflammation and damage. Ulcerative colitis involves inflammation of the colon and rectum, while Crohn’s disease can affect any part of the GI tract from the mouth to the anus.
What causes these diseases?
It’s unclear what exactly causes Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, but there are several factors that can contribute to their development, such as genetics and environmental factors.
What are common symptoms of these diseases?
The most common symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease are bloody diarrhea, chronic diarrhea, malnourishment and chronic abdominal pain. Some people don’t have diarrhea at all, but have obstructive symptoms that come and go, such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain and constipation. Symptoms can range from mild to severe and requiring hospitalization.
When should someone get checked out to see if they have these diseases?
Anyone with bloody stools should see their primary care provider and be referred to the Gastroenterology department for a colonoscopy. This is important to evaluate whether the person has Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, but also to screen for colorectal cancer. People who are suffering from chronic diarrhea and abdominal pain, meaning symptoms last for weeks or months, should also discuss these symptoms with their primary care provider.
How can people treat these diseases once diagnosed?
Though these diseases are chronic, there are medications people can take to help treat the inflammation these diseases cause and help them live normal, healthy lives. It’s also often recommended for people to avoid ultra-processed foods and stick with a Mediterranean diet, which research shows can improve symptoms and inflammation.
What does Cheshire Medical Center offer for Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis care?
Cheshire offers a full spectrum of medical care for patients with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. This includes an initial evaluation with a colonoscopy and/or upper endoscopy and clinic appointments to discuss and manage the plan for care and medications. Additionally, Cheshire offers nutrition appointments with dietitians to discuss gut healthy diets.