A group of Autoimmune diseases called Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) results in chronic inflammation in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. The two main diseases identified in this group are Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis. The symptoms of chronic inflammation over time damage the GI tract. This can cause discomfort and painful symptoms for those affected.

The two diseases share many similarities and must be diagnosed by a physician. Crohn’s disease can take place anywhere along the GI tract, from the mouth to the anus. The small intestine is the most commonly affected area. The affected areas show up as patches of irritation next to healthy tissue and the inflammation may reach through multiple wall layers within the intestine. Contrarily, Ulcerative Colitis is localized to the colon and rectum. Different from the patchy areas seen in Crohn’s, the damaged areas in Colitis are seen in a continuous pattern, typically moving upward from the rectum to the colon. Colitis is also only found in the innermost wall of the colon as opposed to affecting multiple layers. 

It is difficult to pinpoint the exact causes of Inflammatory Bowel Disease just like most autoimmune diseases. Research points to environmental and genetic factors as the likely source. The result is an immune response that when triggered by environmental factors attacks the cells in the GI tract. Both the Inflammatory Bowel Disease; Crohn’s and Colitis, share similar symptoms and can be easily misdiagnosed.

Symptoms Include:

-Persistent diarrhea

-Abdominal pain

-Rectal bleeding/bloody stools

-Weight loss

-Fatigue

IBD is different from IBS and Celiac disease. Getting the correct diagnosis is imperative for the best treatment. Unfortunately, because the symptoms are so similar it is common to be misdiagnosed. That is why it’s important to see a physician or IBD specialist.