Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis (UC) are both types of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that share similar symptoms but differ in their affected areas, disease progression, and treatment approaches.
People can get confused when it comes to differentiating between inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), Crohn’s disease, and ulcerative colitis (UC).
The short explanation is that IBD is the umbrella term for the two other conditions. So, Crohn’s disease and UC are two types of IBD. But there’s much more to the story.
Both Crohn’s and UC are marked by an abnormal response by the body’s immune system, and they may share some symptoms. However, there are important differences as well, especially regarding the location of the conditions in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and the way each responds to treatment.
This article takes a closer look at the key differences between Crohn’s and UC, including symptoms, complications, and treatment approaches.
Understanding inflammatory bowel disease
IBD is found mainly in developed countries such as the United States. Like other autoimmune and allergic disorders, it’s believed that a loss of certain gut bacteria has partially contributed to diseases such as IBD.
Genetic factors may also play a strong role in the development of IBD.
In people with IBD, the immune system mistakenly attacks the gastrointestinal tract, resulting in chronic inflammation.
Crohn’s and UC are both forms of IBD.
For many forms of IBD, there’s no cure. Treatment is centered around the management of symptoms with remission as a goal. For most, it’s a lifelong disease, with alternating periods of remission and flare-up.
Modern treatments, however, allow people to live relatively normal and active lives.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) vs. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
IBD shouldn’t be confused with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). While some symptoms may be similar at times, the source and course of the conditions differ quite significantly.
You can read more about the differences between these two conditions here.
