What Is IBD?
Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis are the two illnesses known as inflammatory bowel disease. Both illnesses tend to strike during childhood at an average age of 12 years old. About 10% of children in our Center have been diagnosed before 5 years of age.
The cause of these conditions is still unknown. The role of infections and diet are constantly under study. A popular theory is that certain individuals are genetically pre-disposed to have an over-reactive immunologic response to the natural bacterial flora that resides in the intestine, leading to swelling, inflammation and pain.
As more is understood about the exact nature of the inflammation, treatments are being targeted directly toward the chemicals produced by the body that cause inflammation in these illnesses.
But despite these recent advances, there is still no known cure. And since children are most affected in terms of growth and development, the approach to early management becomes critical in their long-term outcome.
For more information on IBD check out these websites:
Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation of America
CCFA’s Living with Crohn’s & Colitis
National Institutes of Health Medline Plus