Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a group of chronic immune – mediated disorders that affect the gastrointestinal tract. Immune – mediated diseases are the result of abnormal activity of immune cells that attack the body and cause inflammation.

There are two types of inflammatory bowel disease: ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease.

• Ulcerative colitis is a chronic disease characterized by inflammatory changes in the lining of the colon that causes ulcers. It happens due to an overactive immune system. It can happen at any age but often begins between the ages of 15 and 30.
• Crohn’s disease is chronic inflammation of the digestive tract. It can involve any part of the GI tract from the mouth to the anus, but usually affects the small bowel and the beginning of the large intestines. It is believed to be caused by an autoimmune reaction that attacks healthy cells in the body. It affects about 3 million Americans. It can occur at any age but is often diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 30.

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When you or a loved one suffers with abdominal pain and diarrhea contact the Gastroenterology Associates of Brooklyn to get the right diagnosis and all your treatment options.