I have had ulcerative colitis for years, and it began when I stopped smoking. I have read that there may be an association. I obviously don't want to smoke again. Can you tell me a little about this?
There most definitely is an association between tobacco smoking and inflammatory bowel disease. Interestingly, the... Read more
I have Crohn's
Disease and have been doing fairly well of late. My only significant symptom is
increased gas and bloating associated with mild diarrhea. My doctor feels that
I might have bacterial overgrowth. What is this and what is the treatment?
The gastrointestinal tract is not sterile. There are large
amounts of bacteria present... Read more
Many patients with
inflammatory bowel disease, especially Crohn's disease, due to the chronic nature
of the disease, as well as the inconvenience, cost and side effects of
treatment seek alternative options with supplements. One such supplement is
Omega-3 fatty acid. Omega-3 free fatty acids are anti-inflammatory substances
found in oily... Read more
I have to
take many pills each day. I have heard that there is an extended release
version that I may be able to take instead. Is this true?
Asacol is composed of mesalamine, an anti-inflammatory
specific for the gastrointestinal tract. It is also the major component of
other medications used to treat ulcerative colitis and Crohn's... Read more
Some patients with inflammatory bowel disease have significant symptoms outside of the gastrointestinal tract. These extra-intestinal symptoms can at times be even more significant than the intestinal symptoms. Arthritis, skin conditions, inflammation of the eye and liver are the most common. While the cause is unknown, it is believed that all... Read more