Differences Between Crohn's Disease & Ulcerative Colitis

Ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease are chronic conditions that last for years and maybe even decades. Currently, the causes of both diseases are unknown. However, the one certainty with both diseases is that there is an abnormal activity in the immune system in the intestines. Both diseases are considered inflammatory bowel diseases.

Definition

• Ulcerative colitis is a disease of the lining of the large intestine. It causes inflammation and ulcers in the top layer of the large intestine; it also affects the rectum. Crohn's disease, on the other hand, is an inflammatory disease that can affect the entire digestive track. It can attack anywhere from the mouth to the anus, but normally attacks the small intestine.

Causes

• In both ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, the main cause seems to be an abnormal activation of the immune system in the intestines. It is believed that the immune system mistakes bacteria, food and other substances as invaders. These invaders are then attacked, causing inflammation, which leads to ulcerations and injury to the bowel.

Symptoms

• The symptoms of ulcerative colitis include abdominal cramping, frequent, loose stools, loss of control of bowel function, fever, sleepiness and weight loss. Crohn's disease has similar symptoms that include belly pain, frequent diarrhea, weight loss and mouth sores. There can be flare-ups with Crohn's disease that are brought on by infections, hormonal changes, smoking and stress.

Risk Factors

• Ulcerative colitis usually begins between the ages of 15 and 30, although it can start between 50 and 70; the occurrence in older years is less common, but if it does start in these later years, it occurs more with men. Family history and ethnic background does play a part in the beginning of the disease.
  With Crohn's disease, genes, the immune system and the environment are major risk factors.

Tests

• Blood test will be taken for both conditions, which checks for anemia or a high white blood cell count that indicates an inflammation is happening somewhere in the body. Stool samples are then tested. A further test includes X-rays. The final test is a colonoscopy in which a long, flexible, lighted tube is inserted into the anus. The doctor tests for blood and/or inflammation.

Treatment

• The most effective treatment for ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease includes prescription medication. When this fails to relieve symptoms, surgery may be performed.