Understanding IBS, Crohn's Disease & Chronic Colitis: Symptoms & Management

Irritable bowel syndrome, chronic ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease are at times debilitating conditions. When the patient endures flare-ups, it is difficult for him to leave home and live a normal life. Severe cases will not respond quickly to medications or corticosteroids. The symptoms and treatment are a daily challenge.

Symptoms

• The person who suffers from either illness often endures a great deal of abdominal, eye and joint pain, fatigue, inflammation, loss of balance and frequent bowel movements. There may be mucous and blood in the stools.

Diagnosis

• A colonoscopy is the main test to determine if a patient has a bowel disease or syndrome. Blood tests are another crucial factor.

Effects

• Patients are prone to a low iron count and may suffer from anemia when they are going through a flare-up. Loss of blood and nutrients cause this serious problem.

Medication

• Asacol and Remicade are two therapies that a gastroenterologist may prescribe to help ease symptoms.

Potential

• There is no cure for chronic ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease. Medications help prolong a more manageable quality of life.