Are you concerned that you might have Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis?
To get the right diagnosis and treatment, you should consult a gastroenterologist who typically specializes in these diseases.
To help you prepare, Corey A. Siegel, MD, MS, director of The Walter and Carole Young Center for Digestive Health, answers common questions about how these inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) are diagnosed and treated.
How are Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis diagnosed?
Doctors conduct a colonoscopy. This procedure means putting a colonoscope through the anus, into the rectum, and around the entire colon to look into the small intestine. It is important that a patient prepares for the procedure by cleaning out the colon and the intestines so the doctor has a clear view.
Are they autoimmune diseases?
Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis are not autoimmune diseases where the immune system attacks the body's own cells. These diseases are immune-mediated, where foreign pathogens or an imbalance in the gut microbiome seem to trigger an immune response that attacks bacteria rather than the organ itself.
Are Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis fatal?
No. With proper treatment, these diseases can be largely controlled over time. While in some very unusual cases, these diseases can get out of control, the inflammation is usually kept under control with treatment.
What if you don't get treatment?
Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis are both progressive diseases, meaning if they are not treated effectively early, the damage can build so that eventually medications do not work. A small number of people might be okay not using medications regularly, but medication is important if you wish to effectively control the inflammation and prevent damage.
What medicines are used and should I worry about the side effects?
This question comes up often, says Siegel, especially given the number of ads about Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis on television and the internet. But many safe options exist and any possible side effects are well understood. Your doctor should know what to watch out for and be able to determine which medication is right for you.
Are there natural ways to treat them?
Yes, and one of the natural ways to treat Crohn’s or ulcerative colitis is diet. Two others are getting enough sleep and exercise. Many people also take supplements in addition to treatment. But the key to these approaches is that they are viewed as complementary. Many natural treatments may make you feel better, but on their own, they're typically not enough to heal the inflammation in the bowel.
What foods should you avoid?
With Crohn’s disease or ulcerative disease, foods do not make the inflammation worse or cause more damage but some can be harder to stomach. In fact, when you're feeling well, you can probably eat what you want, but when you're not, certain foods will make you feel worse, even if they do not do long-lasting damage. That’s why it is important to work with a dietician to determine what foods to avoid.