Crohn's disease is characterized by inflammation of the intestinal lining and belongs to a class of digestive diseases known as inflammatory bowel diseases. The most common signs and symptoms of Crohn's disease include diarrhea, abdominal pain, cramping, sores in the intestinal wall and blood in the stool. A number of other diseases share some if not all of the same signs and symptoms of Crohn's disease, which can make it difficult for physicians to diagnose.
Diverticulitis
Diverticulitis also involves inflammation in the intestinal tract. Most people have small pouches in the lining of the colon, called diverticula. The name for the presence of these pouches is diverticulosis. When these pouches become inflamed, the condition is referred to as diverticulitis. The exact cause of diverticulitis has not been determined. The signs and symptoms of diverticulitis that mimic those of Crohn's disease include abdominal pain, cramping, diarrhea and blood in the stool. In addition to these symptoms, other symptoms of diverticulitis include nausea, fever, chills and abscesses, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. Treatment for diverticulitis consists of oral medications, pain relievers and a liquid diet.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Irritable bowel syndrome is a disease that causes a variety of uncomfortable symptoms in the large intestine. Instead of inflammation, irritable bowel syndrome results from an increase or decrease in strength and duration of stomach contractions, according to MayoClinic.com. Symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome vary, but the most common include abdominal pain, cramping, diarrhea or constipation and gas. Instead of blood in the stool as seen in Crohn's disease, those with irritable bowel syndrome often experience mucus in the stool. Treatment for irritable bowel syndrome focuses on the reduction of symptoms and can include combinations of fiber supplements, anti-diarrheal medications and antibiotics. Avoidance of trigger foods also proves important in reducing symptoms.
Ulcerative Colitis
Like Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis belongs to the group of diseases known as inflammatory bowel diseases. Ulcerative colitis is characterized by recurrent inflammation of the intestinal wall, which leads to thickening and scarring. The cause of ulcerative colitis remains unknown. Signs of ulcerative colitis that mimic Crohn's disease include abdominal pain, abdominal cramping, diarrhea and gastrointestinal bleeding. Additional symptoms include increased abdominal sounds, fever, pain in the rectum, joint and nausea, according to MedlinePlus. Treatment for ulcerative colitis consists of a combination of medication and diet changes that include eating small meals throughout the day, avoiding high fiber foods and limiting dairy intake. In severe cases, surgery may prove necessary to remove the damaged part of the colon.
