Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis are two types of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), the exact cause of which is not known. These diseases are thought to be caused by an overactive immune system that abnormally recognizes food and bacteria as being foreign substances, thus "attacking" them. This reaction is characterized by severe inflammation in the lining of the gastrointestinal tract that can cause ulcers, fistulas, diarrhea and bleeding. Other symptoms of IBD can include severe pain and cramping, weight loss and joint pain.

Treatment may include drugs, nutrition supplements, surgery, or a combination of these options. The goals of treatment are to control inflammation, correct nutritional deficiencies, and relieve symptoms like abdominal pain, diarrhea, and rectal bleeding. At this time, treatment can help control the disease by lowering the number of times a person experiences a recurrence, but there is no cure. Treatment for Crohn’s disease depends on the location and severity of disease, complications, and the person’s response to previous medical treatments when treated for recurring symptoms. Infliximab (REMICADE) or other biotics are not treated in our office, but will be administered by your primary care physician.