Crohn's Disease vs Ulcerative Colitis

Overview

• Both are types of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD).
• Do not confuse with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).
• Cause inflammation and ulcers in the bowel.
• Causes are unknown but may involve a faulty immune system and environmental triggers (diet, stress, illness).
• Genetic predisposition; runs in families.
• Characterized by flare-ups and remissions.
• Increased risk of colon cancer; screening necessary.

Similarities

• Both diseases involve bowel inflammation and ulcer formation.
• Patients should avoid high-fiber, hard-to-digest foods during flare-ups.
• Recommended to consume low-fiber, easy-to-digest foods.

Differences

Crohn's Disease

• Can affect the entire GI tract (mouth to anus).
• Commonly affects terminal ileum and beginning of the colon.
• Involves scattered patches, not continuous.
• Entire bowel wall is inflamed (transmural).
• No cure; surgery helps in symptom management, not a solution.
  • Types of surgeries: Bowel resection, partial or total colectomy.
• Complications:
  • Abscesses, fistulas, malnourishment, anal fissures, strictures.
  • Increased risk of bowel obstructions.
  • Nutrient absorption issues due to small intestine involvement.

Ulcerative Colitis

• Affects only the large intestine and rectum.
• Inflammation starts in the rectum and may spread continuously.
• Affects inner lining (mucosa and submucosa) of the intestinal wall.
• Managed with medications and diet; surgery can be curative.
  • Colectomy may lead to an ostomy or ileoanal anastomosis.
• Complications:
  • Bowel rupture, toxic megacolon, loss of haustra (lead pipe sign).
  • Weight loss, dehydration, anemia, inflammation in joints/eyes/skin/liver.

Signs and Symptoms

Crohn's Disease

• Diarrhea (may contain blood), abdominal pain (right lower side).
• Oral ulcers, anal fissures, significant weight loss.
• More malnourishment due to small intestine involvement.

Ulcerative Colitis

• Urgent/frequent bowel movements, weight loss due to dehydration.
• Abdominal cramps, electrolyte imbalances, rectal bleeding.
• Severe diarrhea with blood, mucus, pus.

Conclusion

• Understanding both conditions is crucial for management and treatment.
• Both require lifestyle and diet management to control flare-ups.

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