Ulcerative Colitis and Crohn Disease
What is that?
Well simply put it is diarrhea and abdominal pain that lasts a long time. This is thought to be a result of your immune system overreacting in your digestive system.
How do you tell the difference between the two?
Ulcerative Colitis - like it sounds involves the colon. It is often associated with rectal bleeding.
Crohn's Disease. Children usually present with chronic tummy pain, diarrhea, and weight loss. Ulcers can present from the mouth to the bottom.
These two diseases can also present with skin or joint problems.
How do you diagnose it?
A Gastroenterologist will use a scope to take pictures of your insides and also do a biopsy.
How do you treat it?
Medicines that calm down the immune system are used like steroids. For severe Ulcerative Colitis a chance to cut is a chance to cure. Removal of the large intestine is often curative in UC.
Take Home Points
Most diarrhea is self limited and will resolve after about 2 weeks. If your diarrhea lasts longer you should see a specialist.
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