Symptoms and Diagnosis for IBD (Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis).

By Amber J. Tresca, About.com Guide to Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)

An explanation of the common symptoms of IBD and how these diseases are diagnosed.

1. Symptoms of Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis
2. Blood Tests
3. Colonoscopy
4. Diagnosing IBD

Symptoms of Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis

Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis are categorized together as IBD. But the two diseases can have different symptoms. Learn the differences between these two forms of IBD.

• Signs and Symptoms of Inflammatory Bowel Disease
• Abdominal Bloating and Gas
• Mucus in the Stool
• Worsening of Symptoms During Menses

Blood Tests

A variety of blood tests are commonly used in the diagnosis and treatment of IBD.

• Complete Blood Count (CBC)
• Hemoglobin Level Test
• Red Blood Cell (RBC) Count
• White Blood Cell (WBC) Count

Colonoscopy

A colonoscopy is commonly used to diagnose Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. This test allows a physician to see inside the large intestine to determine the source of gastrointestinal symptoms.

• Colonoscopy Basics
• What to Expect During a Colonoscopy
• Colonoscopy Prep
• Colonoscopy Risks

Diagnosing IBD

A physician may use a complete medical history as well as several tests to diagnose IBD. Tests can include both endoscopy (tests to look inside the gastrointestinal tract), blood tests, and biopsies.

• How IBD is Diagnosed
• Barium Enema
• Fecal Occult Blood Test
• Sigmoidoscopy

• Upper Endoscopy
• Upper Gastrointestinal (Upper GI) Series
• X-rays