Inflammatory bowel disease

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) describes two similar yet distinct conditions called Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. These diseases affect the digestive system and cause the intestinal tissue to become inflamed, form sores and bleed easily. Symptoms include abdominal pain, cramping, fatigue and diarrhea.

Crohn's disease can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract, from the mouth to the anus. Patches of inflammation occur, with healthy tissue between the diseased areas. The inflammation can extend through every layer of affected bowel tissue. Crohn's disease can not be cured by drugs or surgery, although either or both can help relieve symptoms.

Ulcerative colitis affects only the inner layer of the colon, or large bowel. It always starts in the rectum and may extend as a continuous inflammation from there into the rest of the colon. Usually ulcerative colitis can be controlled with medication. The disease can be completely eliminated by surgically removing the colon, but afterward, waste material may have to be stored and expelled through an external appliance.
Source: Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of Canada

Rectocolitis is an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that affects the lining of the large intestine and its cause remains unknown.

Symptoms mainly consist of a painful and bloody diarrhea that can last from several weeks to several months, rectal burns, colic and sometimes false needs.

Causality factors are still largely unknown. Theories suggest several possibilities: genetic predisposition, bacteria and quitting smoking for some people.

Treatment against this disease is mainly based on salicylates. As a last resort, surgery will be used to cure the disease in the optics that the rectum and the colon are removed.