What is the difference between Ed Colitis and Crohn's disease?

In this article, we will explore the key differences between two common inflammatory bowel diseases - Ulcerative Colitis and Crohn's disease. These conditions can have similar symptoms but affect different parts of the digestive tract and have distinct characteristics.

Overview of Ulcerative Colitis

Ulcerative Colitis is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that primarily affects the colon and rectum. The inflammation in Ulcerative Colitis is continuous, starting from the rectum and extending along the colon in a continuous manner. Symptoms of Ulcerative Colitis include abdominal pain, diarrhea with blood or pus, rectal bleeding, and urgency to have a bowel movement. Diagnosis of Ulcerative Colitis is based on a combination of symptoms, physical examination, blood tests, and imaging studies.

Overview of Crohn's Disease

Crohn's disease is also a chronic inflammatory bowel disease, but it can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract from the mouth to the anus. The inflammation in Crohn's disease can occur in patches and can involve multiple layers of the intestinal wall. Symptoms of Crohn's disease include abdominal pain, diarrhea, weight loss, fatigue, and complications such as strictures or fistulas. Diagnosis of Crohn's disease involves a combination of symptoms, physical examination, blood tests, endoscopy, and imaging studies.