Things to Know about Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis

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.