Understanding Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Crohn's vs. Ulcerative Colitis
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) affects over 3 million Americans, yet many people don't understand the difference between Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. Both are chronic conditions causing inflammation in the digestive tract, but they affect different areas and require different treatment approaches.
Crohn's disease can affect any part of the GI tract from mouth to anus, though it most commonly affects the small intestine and colon. Inflammation occurs in patches and can penetrate deep into bowel tissue layers. Symptoms include abdominal pain, severe diarrhea, fatigue, weight loss, and malnutrition.
Ulcerative colitis affects only the colon and rectum, causing continuous inflammation in the innermost lining of the colon. Symptoms include bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramping, urgency to defecate, and inability to defecate despite urgency. Both conditions involve periods of flare-ups and remission.
Treatment for IBD has advanced significantly. Options include anti-inflammatory drugs, immune system suppressors, biologics, antibiotics, and in severe cases, surgery. Our IBD specialists create personalized treatment plans to control inflammation, manage symptoms, and improve quality of life. Early diagnosis and treatment prevent complications like strictures, fistulas, and colon cancer.
If you experience persistent diarrhea, abdominal pain, bloody stools, or unexplained weight loss, schedule a consultation. Proper diagnosis and treatment can help you live a full, active life despite IBD.
The Importance of Colon Cancer Screening: What You Need to Know
Colon cancer is the third most common cancer in the United States, but it's also one of the most preventable. Regular colonoscopy screening can detect precancerous polyps before they become cancer, dramatically reducing your risk.
The American Cancer Society now recommends that adults at average risk begin screening at age 45, down from the previous recommendation of 50. People with family history of colon cancer, personal history of polyps or IBD, or certain genetic syndromes should begin screening earlier and may need more frequent exams.
During a colonoscopy, a flexible tube with a camera examines your entire colon. If polyps are found, they're typically removed during the same procedure—preventing them from potentially becoming cancerous. The procedure is performed under sedation, so most patients experience no discomfort and don't remember the exam.
Preparation involves cleansing your colon the day before with a special laxative solution. While the prep isn't pleasant, it's essential for a thorough examination. The actual procedure takes only 20-30 minutes, and you can return to normal activities the next day.
Don't put off this life-saving screening. If you're 45 or older and haven't had a colonoscopy, or if it's been 10 years since your last one, schedule your screening today. Early detection saves lives—colon cancer caught early has a 90% five-year survival rate.
Managing GERD and Heartburn: When to See a Gastroenterologist
Nearly everyone experiences occasional heartburn, but frequent acid reflux may indicate gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a chronic condition that requires medical attention. Left untreated, GERD can damage your esophagus and increase cancer risk.
GERD occurs when stomach acid frequently flows back into the esophagus, irritating its lining. Common symptoms include burning sensation in the chest (heartburn), difficulty swallowing, regurgitation of food or sour liquid, sensation of a lump in the throat, and chronic cough or hoarseness.
You should see a gastroenterologist if you experience heartburn more than twice a week, over-the-counter medications don't provide relief, you have difficulty swallowing, you experience persistent nausea or vomiting, or you've lost weight due to poor appetite or difficulty eating. These symptoms may indicate complications like esophagitis, strictures, or Barrett's esophagus—a precancerous condition.
Treatment options range from lifestyle modifications (elevating the head of your bed, avoiding trigger foods, eating smaller meals) to medications (antacids, H2 blockers, proton pump inhibitors) to surgical interventions in severe cases. Our gastroenterologists can perform upper endoscopy to assess esophageal damage and pH monitoring to measure acid reflux.
Don't ignore persistent heartburn. What seems like a minor annoyance can lead to serious complications. Call 646-762-9468 to schedule a consultation at our Manhattan office and get relief from chronic acid reflux.
