(NAPS)—Ifyouor someoneyou care aboutis among the 1.6 million Ameri- cans with Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis, there are a few facts you mayfind it helpful to know. ‘The conditionsarecollectively known as inflammatory bowel diseases, or IBD. ‘Theyaffect the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, the area ofthe body wheredigestiontakes place. The diseases cause inflammation ofthe intestine and can lead to ongoing symptomsand complications. Although there is no knowncauseorcure for IBD, there are manyeffective treatments to help controlit. ‘Anyone can be diagnosed with IBD, but adolescents and young adults between the ages of 15 and 35 are the most susceptible. Ten percent of those afflicted develop symptoms before age 18. Approximately 20 percentofpatients have another family memberwith IBD, ah tale If you develop persistent digestive difficulties, see your doctor.If you're diagnosed with Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis, there are treat- mentsthat can help. ‘Treatments There are medications currently available to help control disease symp- toms and inflammation. The most commonly prescribed are aminosali- cylates (5-ASA), corticosteroids, immu- nomodulators, biologic therapies, and and families frequently share a similar antibiotics. quality of life. People often experience when medications can no longercontrol symptoms, when there are intestinal obstructions or when other complica- pattern ofdisease. IBD canvary from oneperson to the next, but often hasa significanteffect on ongoing symptoms, reduced ability to work,social stigma anddifficulty with physicalactivities. Symptoms And Complications Ulcerative colitis involves the inner lining of the colon, while Crohn's disease involvesalllayers ofthe intestine and can occurin both the small intestine and colon.Here are four things to consider: 1. Symptoms range from mild to severe and can includeanyorall of the following: + persistentdiarrhea + abdominal pain or cramps + rectal bleeding + fever and weightloss + fatigue + joint, skin oreyeirritations + delayed growth in children. Surgery is sometimes recommended tionsarise. EmotionalFactors IBD doesnot only affect the body physically. There can also beeffects on mental health. Feelings of anxiety and depression can be very commonin IBD, as patients learn to cope with everyday living.It is importantnotto ignore these invisible symptomsandto seek support orto talk to your doctorabout any emotional concerns. Diet ‘There maybetimes when modifying a patient's diet can be helpful, particularly when symptomsare active, but theres no evidence that certain foods cause IBD. Nosingle diet or eating plan works for everyone with IBD.Diets are tailored to each patient. What's Being Done 2. Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis are unpredictable. Some people have no active symptoms for some genetics, microbiome and environmen- require frequent hospitalizations and precision medicineand,ultimately, lead ‘Thereis critical research in areas of time (also known asremission). Others taltriggers that will help improve quality oflife for patients, advance toward surgery. Symptoms mayvary in nature, to new treatmentand cures. frequency andintensity. 3. Taking medications as prescribed Learn More by a doctorcan help control symptoms, inflammation and any complications that mayarise, such as malnutrition or You can get information, guidance, support, and the latest clinical and research news from the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation at www.crohnscolitis 4.Regular colonoscopies are rec- chapter, connect with others living with potentially be removed,or changes hap- the IBD Help Center at 888-MY-GUTPAIN (888-694-8872) or e-mail info@ anemia. ommendedin IBDpatients to monitor inflammationandany growthsthat can pening within the colon. foundation.org, Youcan also join a nearby these diseases, and get involved. Call crohnscolitisfoundation.org.
