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

Crohn’s disease and colitis are very similar. Both mainly affect the small intestine, but the entire digestive tract can be affected, including the mouth and stomach.

As the small intestine is responsible for absorbing most nutrients provided by food, nutritional deficiencies are more common with Crohn’s disease than with colitis. Attacks can range from light to severe and are more common in young people. It’s a very serious problem, as the inflammation transforms the intestinal mucosa, causing significant scarring. If the inflammation lasts or intensifies, there will be more scars in the intestine, which will interfere with normal nutrient absorption.

Intestinal bleeding can then lead to anemia. Fistulas, small tunnels to other organs which can cause abscesses, can also form. Another serious potential complication is an intestinal blockage. It’s often characterized by severe constipation and a worsening of symptoms, or by abundant bleeding leading to red or black stools.

The causes of Crohn’s disease are similar to those of colitis and include stress, food intolerances, autoimmune disease, diet and parasites. Crohn’s disease can also be caused by an accumulation of toxins contained in medications, combined with the fact that the lymphatic system is overworked as it tries to eliminate these toxins from the tissues. When the entire body itches, it means that the liver is also involved.