Crohn's and Colitis For Dummies

Book excerpt: The ultimate reference for those with Crohn's and colitis and their family and friends Crohn's disease and colitis are frustrating, often debilitating gastrointestinal diseases that can have a severe impact on the overall health of those who suffer from them. According to the latest estimates, more than 600,000 patients in North America have Crohn's disease. Written by a physician specialising in the treatment of IBDs, Crohn's and Colitis For Dummies is a complete plain-English guide to understanding, treating, and living well with these diseases. Helps readers actively recognize symptoms of Crohn's and colitis and explains the diagnostic procedures doctors use to identify these diseases Outlines how the whole body is affected by Crohn's and colitis, and the potential hazards of letting the disease go untreated Offers expert advice and guidance on controlling Crohn's and colitis with diet and outlines the treatment options of medicines and surgery, including the various risks and benefits of each Provides practical advice for parents of children with Crohn's and colitis with insights into how children's treatment options can differ from those of adults