Ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease are inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) that affect the
gastrointestinal tract. However, it’s important to distinguish between these conditions, as they require different therapies. Early and accurate diagnosis of your digestive condition can lead to faster treatment, which results in better outcomes and a reduced risk of hospitalization, surgery and other serious complications. There are many similarities between ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease – so many, in fact, that the two conditions sometimes seem
interchangeable to many individuals. Similarities between these IBD conditions include: While there are several similarities between Crohn’s and ulcerative colitis, key differences set these conditions apart – and call for different treatment approaches. Differences between these IBD conditions include: The primary goal of treatment for Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis is to reduce inflammation. Your gastroenterologist will work closely with you to develop a treatment plan that addresses inflammation, helps manage symptoms and reduces flare-ups. Treatment plans will
vary based on your specific condition and the severity of inflammation and symptoms. Generally, Crohn’s and ulcerative colitis are managed with a combination of medication and diet and lifestyle modification. In some cases, when a nonsurgical approach fails to address your condition, your gastroenterologist may recommend surgery. Learn more about treating Ulcerative colitis
or Crohn’s disease. If you're experiencing signs or symptoms of Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis, schedule an appointment or call 800-TEMPLE-MED (800-836-7536) today. Learn more about our doctors and care team who diagnose and treat Crohn's disease & ulcerative colitis. SummaryRead the full fact sheet
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From other websitesContent disclaimerContent on this website is provided for information purposes only. Information about a therapy, service, product or treatment does not in any way endorse or support such therapy, service, product or treatment and is not intended to replace advice from your doctor or other registered health professional. The information and materials contained on this website are not intended to constitute a comprehensive guide concerning all aspects of the therapy, product or treatment described on the website. All users are urged to always seek advice from a registered health care professional for diagnosis and answers to their medical questions and to ascertain whether the particular therapy, service, product or treatment described on the website is suitable in their circumstances. The State of Victoria and the Department of Health shall not bear any liability for reliance by any user on the materials contained on this website. Which of the following differentiates ulcerative colitis from Crohn's disease?The differences between ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease are: Ulcerative colitis is limited to the colon while Crohn's disease can occur anywhere between the mouth and the anus. In Crohn's disease, there are healthy parts of the intestine mixed in between inflamed areas.
Which of the following signs symptoms is used to distinguish between Crohn's disease and UC?Some notable signs and symptoms of ulcerative colitis are blood and mucus in stool, tenesmus, frequent diarrhea, appetite loss, or and frequent urge for bowel movement. Crohn's disease, on the other hand, is characterized by nausea, vomiting, unintentional weight loss, rectal bleeding, and diarrhea.
What diagnostic test is preferred to differentiate between ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease?Colonoscopy examines the lining of the entire large intestine (colon) and may be used to peek into the very end of the small intestine (ileum). This exam can help determine the severity of ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease as well as distinguish between the two diseases or other types of intestinal conditions.
What histologic features best differentiate Crohn's disease from ulcerative colitis?Thickening of the muscularis mucosae may be seen in UC, while in CD the muscularis mucosae is usually irregular. The differential diagnosis relies mainly on the more severe architectural and inflammatory abnormalities in active UC.
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