What is the Difference Between Ulcerative Colitis and Crohn’s Disease?

Ulcerative Colitis vs. Crohn’s Disease: Symptoms, Causes & Location

Ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease are both forms of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). People often confuse the two and use them interchangeably. However, they are both different conditions. Knowing their differences is crucial in understanding the diseases.

Comparative Analysis of Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis

The table below analyses the differences between ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease:

From the above table, we can see that the two diseases affect the intestinal system of the body. However, they differ based on their location, areas affected and the type of inflammation.

What is Crohn’s Disease?

Crohn's disease causes inflammation in the digestive tract. It can be anywhere, from the mouth to the anus. Different people observe different areas of inflammation. However, the large intestine and the small intestine are commonly affected.

Unfortunately, there is no cure for Crohn's disease. However, several lifestyle changes and therapy can help you manage the symptoms.

What are the Symptoms of Crohn’s Disease?

Knowing the symptoms of Crohn’s disease is an important step towards treatment. They are as follows:

• Belly pain
• Cramping
• Frequent diarrhoea
• Reduced appetite
• Weight loss
• Mouth sore
• Fistula
• Fever
• Fatigue

Causes of Crohn’s Disease

Research regarding the causes of Crohn’s disease is still ongoing. Doctors suspect the following may be the reason:

• Immune System: Doctors suspect bacteria and viruses play a role in triggering Crohn's disease. When your body tries to eliminate these foreign substances, it unknowingly attacks the digestive system too.

• Genes: Doctors also suspect genes to be the main cause of this disease. However, researchers are not sure whether they have a link. According to a study, more than 200 genes were found linked to this condition.

What is Ulcerative Colitis?

Ulcerative colitis is also a form of inflammatory bowel disease. However, it is only restricted to the colon and rectum. What sets it apart from Crohn's disease is that it not only causes inflammation but also ulcers.

This disease can cause life-threatening complications. Unfortunately, there is no cure for this condition. However, consistent treatment can reduce the symptoms and help you lead a quality life.

What are the Symptoms of Ulcerative Colitis?

Let us discuss the symptoms of ulcerative colitis below:

• Urgency to pass stool
• Fatigue
• Fever
• Rectal bleeding
• Diarhhoea
• Weight loss
• Stictures
• Perianal diseases
• Constipation
• Cramping
• Belly pain

Causes of Ulcerative Colitis

Just like Crohn's disease, the exact cause of this condition is still unknown. However, here are some factors which may likely cause this:

• Genetic Traits: Researchers suggest that heredity and several genetic traits trigger ulcerative colitis. If you have someone in your family affected by this disease, you may also be affected.

• Immune System Malfunction: Similar to Crohn’s disease, doctors suggest that ulcerative colitis may be caused by your immune system accidentally attacking your colon and rectum.

Now that you know the differences between Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, it will be easy to determine the symptoms and causes. If you notice any of the symptoms, get medical advice immediately.