Inflammatory bowel disease, or IBD, consists of a group of disorders that lead to chronic inflammation of the digestive tract.  Of this group, Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis are the most frequently reported cases.  Over 2 million Americans are affected by these diseases.

Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis share a number of similarities.  They can cause swelling and sores around the tissue that lines the digestive tract.  They can also lead to pain in the abdominal area and frequent episodes of diarrhea.  Crohn’s disease develops in multiple regions in the digestive tract, including the mouth and rectum.  It also penetrates the deeper layers of the lining.  Ulcerative colitis can be observed in only the outermost layer of the tissue lining the colon.

Crohn’s disease is responsible for the following symptoms:

• Chronic diarrhea
• Fever
• Weight loss
• Fullness
• Abdominal pain

The primary symptom of ulcerative colitis is diarrhea, which can become bloody.  Other symptoms may include abdominal pain, fever, and severe diarrhea.

There is no widespread cure for IBD, and patients are encouraged to treat these diseases in their earliest stages.  If the conditions become more serious, surgery may be the only option.  Dr. Davidson provides consultations and examinations to detect IBD in their earliest and most treatable stages.

To schedule your consultation, please call our office today.

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