What are Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis

Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis fall under the umbrella term inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).  They are chronic conditions that cause inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract.  Ulcerative colitis affects the colon, whereas Crohn’s disease most commonly affects the small intestine and colon but can cause inflammation anywhere in the gastrointestinal tract. Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis are lifelong conditions, but with expert care, many people achieve long-term symptom control and improved quality of life.

Symptoms of Inflammatory Bowel Disease

• Abdominal pain and cramping
• Chronic diarrhea with or without blood
• Tenesmus, the sensation of incomplete emptying of the rectum
• Fatigue or low energy
• Reduced appetite and weight loss
• Perianal fistulas
• Mouth sores
• Joint pain or skin irritation (extraintestinal manifestations)
• Flare-ups may alternate with periods of remission

What Causes Inflammatory Bowel Disease?

The exact cause of inflammatory disease is unknown, but research suggests a combination of factors. The disease is not caused by something you did or ate—it is an autoimmune condition with complex origins.

• Immune system dysfunction: the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the GI tract
• Genetics: a family history of IBD increases the risk
• Environmental triggers such as infections, diet, smoking, and stress

How Inflammatory Bowel Disease Is Diagnosed

Diagnosis begins with a careful review of symptoms, lab results, and imaging studies. Your doctor may order a combination of tests to help rule out other causes and confirm inflammation.

• Blood tests to check for anemia, inflammation, or nutrient deficiencies
• Stool tests to look for infections or inflammation
• Colonoscopy to inspect the colon and terminal ileum, often with biopsies
• Upper endoscopy if upper gastrointestinal involvement is suspected
• Specialized MRI or CT scans to assess the small intestine
• Capsule endoscopy for small bowel evaluation if other imaging is inconclusive

Treatment Options

There is now a wide array of pills, injections, and infusions available to treat inflammatory bowel disease.  Many patients manage Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis effectively with a personalized treatment plan and are able to return to their normal lives.  Inflammatory bowel disease requires lifelong treatment, and even patients with completely controlled disease will develop flares sooner or later if they stop taking their medications.

While diet is a known factor in triggering the onset of inflammatory bowel disease, the role of diet in controlling inflammatory bowel disease once it is present is limited.

Treatment goals focus on not only controlling symptoms to restore quality of life, but also controlling inflammation to prevent complications.  Inflammation in the colon can increase the risk of colon cancer.  Uncontrolled Crohn’s disease can cause intestinal blockage and fistulas.

Sometimes inflammatory bowel disease will require surgery as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, although the rate of needing surgery is dropping as new treatments have emerged.

Ongoing Care and Monitoring

• Periodic lab tests to monitor inflammation and medication side effects
• Routine colonoscopy for cancer surveillance
• Imaging to monitor disease activity
• Coordination with nutrition and behavioral health support

Why Choose Salem Gastro for Inflammatory Bowel Disease Care

• Board-certified IBD specialists
• On-site endoscopy, and lab and imaging coordination
• Personalized treatment plans
• Experienced in managing complex cases and biologic therapies
• Close communication with your primary care or referring physician

Take the First Step Toward Relief

If you’re experiencing symptoms of Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis or have been diagnosed and need care, our team is here to help. Request a consultation to discuss your symptoms, testing options, and treatment strategies.