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Key Differences: Where the Inflammation Develops
Another important difference between ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease is where the inflammation develops. Ulcerative colitis is isolated to the colon, whereas inflammation can develop anywhere between the mouth and the anus in Crohn’s disease, explains UCLA Health.
The source also notes that ulcerative colitis causes continuous inflammation in the colon, whereas in Crohn’s disease, “there are healthy parts of the intestine mixed in between inflamed areas.” Finally, Crohn’s disease develops in all layers of the bowel walls and ulcerative colitis only affects the innermost lining of the colon.
Causes
The exact cause of both ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease is, unfortunately, unknown. That said, certain factors may play a role in increasing your risk for developing one of the diseases.
The Mayo Clinic says, your family history may increase your risk for developing both ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. If you have immediate family members with the disease, you may be more likely to develop it too. Having a virus or bacterium may also trigger Crohn’s disease, however, “scientists have yet to identify such a trigger,” says the source.
Furthermore, age may play a role in ulcerative colitis. The Mayo Clinic says it typically begins before the age of 30, however, it can develop at any age. If you’re concerned about your risk of developing one of these diseases, talk to your doctor.
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