Differences between Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis

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What is the difference between Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis?

Both Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis are inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), however, there are distinct differences between these diseases. This video developed by the GI Society with Dr. Mike Evans, illustrates the differences between Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, the impact of these diseases, possible causes and prevalence.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease video courtesy of GI Society

Site of inflammation differs between Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis

Crohn’s disease can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract, including the mouth, esophagus, stomach, small and large intestines, rectum and anus.  Ulcerative colitis is located in the colon, usually starting from the rectum.  In Crohn’s disease, inflammation occurs in all layers of the intestinal wall and patches of this inflammation can be scattered throughout the GI tract.  In contrast, in ulcerative colitis, inflammation occurs in the innermost lining of the intestinal wall and is a continuous stretch within the colon.

Differences between Crohns and ulcerative colitis

Symptoms common to both Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis

Symptoms of Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis present quite similarly and include the following:

  • Abdominal pain
  • Diarrhea
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Loss of appetite
  • Weight loss
  • Fever
  • Fatigue

Symptomatic differences between Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis

There are some subtle differences in symptoms of Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.  In Crohn’s disease rectal bleeding is less common, whereas in ulcerative colitis, bleeding from the rectum is much more common.  In Crohn’s disease, continuous abdominal pain is more common and perianal problems such as fistulas, anal sores and skin tags, can occur.  In contrast, people living with ulcerative colitis usually have intermittent pain coinciding with bowel movements. Perianal issues are uncommon in ulcerative colitis.