Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis are both inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs), characterized by chronic inflammation of the digestive tract that goes through cycles of flare-ups and remission. While colitis is found only in one continuous area of the large intestine, Crohn's occurs in patchy patterns anywhere between the mouth and the anus, but most often in the small intestine or colon. However, the symptoms are similar, and "approximately 10 percent of colitis cases are unable to be pinpointed as either ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease and are called indeterminate colitis," says the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation of America (CCFA).
Abdominal Pain
Both IBDs are often accompanied by abdominal pain and cramping. With Crohn's disease (CD), this can be fairly constant. However, with ulcerative colitis (UC), the pain is more likely to be intermittent, often corresponding with bowel movements, and doesn't usually occur when the disease is in remission---anywhere from a few months to a few years. Both diseases also adversely affect the appetite, and may result in weight loss.
Diarrhea or Vomiting
Sufferers of both Crohn's and colitis are likely to have chronic diarrhea, because inflammation makes the bowels empty frequently. Colitis only affects the innermost lining of the intestinal wall, where the inflammation kills the cells. This results in irritation, causing ulcers that ooze blood and mucus, which often show up in stools. A feeling of urgency can occur even after a bowel movement is finished. People with Crohn's disease can also experience rectal bleeding, but unlike colitis, what start out as small sores, end up penetrating deep into the walls of the intestines. But IBD doesn't just affect the lower end of the digestive tract; patients with either CD or UC can also feel nauseous or vomit.
Fever and Fatigue
The blood loss that occurs can cause people with IBD to become anemic or fatigued. Frequent fever often accompanies the diseases too, and unexplained fever lasting several days may be an early warning sign. Joint problems like arthritis, and skin disorders such as lesions, can also occur. People with Crohn's disease can even have inflammation of the eyes, liver or bile ducts, according to MayoClinic.com, the online health resource from the Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. Any of these symptoms can warrant a visit to the doctor, where a physical exam or series of tests are required for diagnosis.
