Most middle-aged people think of colonoscopy as an important screening test for colon cancer. In reality, this minimally invasive and accurate GI assessment also can be used in diagnosing inflammatory bowel disease, or IBD. In this blog, we will look at how colonoscopy can help differentiate between the two kinds of IBD: Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.
What Is Crohn’s Disease?
Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis are both types of IBD. They cause inflammation in the digestive tract. However, the two conditions have distinct differences.
Crohn’s disease can affect any part of the digestive tract from the mouth to the anus. The inflammation caused by Crohn’s disease also extends through all layers of the intestinal wall.
The inflammation results in symptoms such as:
- Abdominal pain
- Diarrhea
- Rectal bleeding
- Weight loss
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Mouth sores
- Anal discharge
Plus, people with Crohn’s disease may experience complications such as strictures (narrowing) or fistulas (abnormal connections) in their intestines.
Age, ethnicity, family history and immune system factors play a significant role in Crohn’s disease. Diet, stress and smoking may contribute to symptom flares.
What Is Ulcerative Colitis?
Ulcerative colitis is another common kind of inflammatory bowel disease. It is characterized by several symptoms, including:
- Unexplained weight loss
- Poor appetite
- Diarrhea which is frequent and pronounced
- Pain
- Bleeding from the rectum
Ulcerative colitis damages only the colon and rectum. This digestive system condition is chronic, marked by periodic episodes of symptom flares.
Causes of Ulcerative Colitis
The causes of ulcerative colitis are somewhat of a mystery. However, research seems to indicate that a combination of genetics, environment and an overactive immune system may be contributing factors.
In addition to the more common physical symptoms, people with ulcerative colitis also suffer from digestive system complications. These can include strictures or fistulas in their intestines.
Strictures occur when parts of the intestinal wall become thickened and narrow, making it difficult for food and stool to pass. Fistulas are abnormal passageways that form between different parts of the intestinal tract, causing leakage of stool and potentially leading to infections or abscesses.
One particularly concerning complication of ulcerative colitis is bleeding from the rectum. This is caused by severe inflammation and damage in the lining of the colon and rectum, leading to bleeding. Those with ulcerative colitis may notice blood passing with bowel movements. In severe cases, this bleeding can be continuous and may require medical intervention.
How Can a Colonoscopy Doctor Tell Which IBD Affects You?
If you are experiencing symptoms of IBD, your doctor may recommend a colonoscopy to diagnose the specific type of IBD you have. During a colonoscopy, a thin, flexible tube with a camera attached is inserted into the rectum and guided through the entire length of the colon. This allows the doctor to visually inspect the lining of your intestine and take tissue samples, or biopsies, as needed.
A biopsy helps a GI specialist differentiate between cancer and diagnosing inflammatory bowel disease. It also can tell the doctor if your inflammation is due to IBD or something else.
Assessment and Monitoring
A colonoscopy exam also helps the doctor determine how severe the damage to the digestive system lining is and to monitor any changes in your condition over time. People with IBD are at a somewhat higher risk for developing colon cancer. So, you and your colonoscopy doctor will discuss how frequently you should be examined.
Diagnostic Testing
In addition to a colonoscopy, other diagnostic tests may be recommended–blood tests, stool tests, or imaging scans as examples. These tests provide more information about the location and extent of inflammation in the digestive system.
Tailored Treatment Plan
If you are diagnosed with IBD, your doctor will work with you to develop a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. This plan may include medications to reduce inflammation and manage symptoms, lifestyle changes such as diet modifications and stress management techniques and possibly surgery if necessary.
Follow your treatment plan closely and communicate openly with your gastroenterologist about any concerns or changes in your symptoms. With proper diagnosis and treatment, many people with IBD are able to control their symptoms and live healthy, active lives.
Premiere Colonoscopy Doctors in Sarasota and Manatee Counties
At Intercoastal Medical Group, our professional team includes four highly experienced and board-certified gastroenterologists. They perform routine screening and diagnostic colonoscopy exams, practicing out of our Cattleridge Medical Building I and Lakewood Ranch II locations.
If you have questions about irritable bowel disease and wish to learn more about colonoscopies, contact us for an appointment with Dr. Richard Golub or one of our other GI doctors. Call us at (941) 365-1102 or fill out our appointment request form here.
