Inflammatory bowel disease refers to two specific diseases that share some similar symptoms. The Kids Health website points out that both diseases cause inflammation. Colitis, also called ulcerative colitis, is one type of IBD that affects the inner lining of the intestine and eventually results in open ulcers or wounds. Crohn's disease is quite similar to colitis except it more often affects the last part of the small intestine and some parts of the large intestine.
Bleeding
Both colitis and Crohn's disease can cause bleeding of the rectum in some individuals. MayoClinic.com points out that for some individuals this may be the only symptom. Some forms of colitis, such as proctosigmoiditis, cause profusely bloody diarrhea. The bleeding can be significant enough to cause anemia, a reduced level of red blood cells in the body.
Rectal Discomfort
Rectal pain, pressure, urgency or an inability to move bowels despite the need to pass stools are considered to be mild symptoms of colitis. It is also possible for an individual to experience a nearly constant urge to have a bowel movement.
Abdominal Symptoms
Most types of colitis lead to abdominal cramps and pain with or without diarrhea or the passing of stools. Some forms of colitis can cause severe abdominal pain states MayoClinic.com. Bloating, abdominal discomfort and intestinal gas can increase due to irritation and inflammation associated with both forms of IBD.
Weight Loss
Weight loss from frequent bowel movements, reduced appetite and dietary changes from colitis and Crohn's is common. This can be significant in some cases.
Other Effects
Pancolitis, a specific type of colitis can cause fatigue in some individuals, states MayoClinic.com. Some individuals may develop skin lesions or joint pain with colitis, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. The lesions associated with severe Crohn's can appear as eye inflammation and other skin disorders. These seemingly unrelated symptoms are often the greatest when the illness hasn't been diagnosed, or the individual has yet to make any changes to manage stress or eating habits. Some children may even fail to grow. MedlinePlus.com notes that sufferers of colitis may experience a fever with chills in some cases.
Diarrhea
Diarrhea is a common sign of both colitis and Crohn's. In some cases, the diarrhea can be severe, resulting in dehydration and the loss of other nutrients in the body, states the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse.
