Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) causes inflammation or ulceration of the intestinal tract. This can occur anywhere within the intestinal tract, from the mouth to the anus. There are two major types of inflammatory bowel disease: ulcerative colitis and Crohn's Disease.

• Ulcerative colitis is the most common form of IBD and only affects the large intestine.

• Crohn's Disease affects the deepest layers of the digestive tract and can occur at any point from the mouth to the anus.

The cause for IBD is unknown but may involve an abnormal reaction of the body's immune system against beneficial bacteria within the intestinal tract. Environmental factors, including high latitudes and cigarette smoke, may increase the chances of developing IBD.

Treatment will vary depending on the severity of the disease and is used to maintain remission (suppress symptoms) of the disease. For mild cases, antidiarrheal medications are used. For moderate to extreme cases, other medications as well as antidiarrheals are used to manage the symptoms.

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