Crohn’s’ Disease and ulcerative colitis (U.C.) belong to the
family of inflammatory diseases. Both ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease
collectively are called inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) which can impact many
organs.
What is Crohn’s
Disease?
It is a chronic inflammatory condition that involves GI
tract and affects any part of the GI tract. The exact cause of this disease in
unknown. However, the possible reason is the normal bacteria in GI tract and
interaction between body’s immune system.
What is ulcerative
colitis?
It is also an inflammatory condition that involves colon and
rectum.
Hospitals like Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles
offer diagnosis and treatment of
Crohn’s’ Disease and ulcerative colitis. These health conditions are
diagnosed by a colon and rectal surgeon,
also known as a colorectal surgeon.
Symptoms
Some of the common symptoms of Crohn’s’ Disease and
ulcerative colitis are:
• Cramping and
bloating
• Weight loss
• Ulcer
• Anal Pain
• Fever
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal pain
• Rectal bleeding.
• Rectal mucus.
• Joint pain.
• Blurred vision or
eye pain
• Arthritis.
• Skin problems
• Mouth ulcer
• Nausea or
vomiting
If you experience above mentioned symptoms, then visiting a colorectal surgeon in Los Angeles is
necessary. Based on your conditions the doctor might suggest some tests and
exams to understand your health condition. Here are few tests that colorectal
surgeon may recommend:
• Blood tests
• Endoscopy
• Colonoscopy
• Imaging tests
Treatment of Crohn’s’
Disease and Ulcerative Colitis
After the diagnosis, the surgeon will start the treatment.
Depending on whether you are suffering from Crohn’s’ Disease or U.C., the
doctor will suggest a different combination of medicines such as antibiotics
and anti-inflammatory medications. For severe condition, the surgeon may also
suggest biologic agents. These medications can have side-effects that should be
carefully monitored by the physician.
However, if the medicines fail, your gastroenterologist might
recommend a surgery. For U.C., Ileal pouch-anal anastomosis (IPAA) is
suggested. This procedure involves removal of colon and rectum. For Crohn’s’
Disease, an emergency surgery can be done for the perforation of the intestine.
Surgery doesn’t cure Crohn’s’ Disease, but it provides long term relief from
painful symptoms.
Colon and Rectal
Surgeon in Los Angeles
Realizing the fact that you are suffering from IBD can be
frightening. During this difficult phase, it is essential to consult a
specialist who can help you throughout the treatment process. Dr. Karen
Zaghiyan is one of the best colorectal surgeons in Los Angeles who treats her patients with a
personalized approach.
