Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) refers to chronic disorders of the small and/or large
intestine characterized by inflammatory changes in the intestinal tissue. The two major types
of inflammatory bowel disease are Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.
Crohn’s disease usually affects the small intestine but may extend into the large
intestine as well. Ulcerative colitis occurs only in the large intestine. The function of the
small intestine differs from that of the large intestine; therefore, while the health
consequences and treatment of Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis may be similar,
there are important differences as well.
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purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro),
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not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with
prescription or over-the-counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor,
practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or
before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires March 2005.
