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 the tests used to diagnose these diseases. Blood tests and colonoscopy are important pieces in the diagnosis of IBD and are therefore explained in greater detail below.
- Symptoms of Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis
- Diagnosing IBD
- Blood Tests: In Depth
- Colonoscopy: In Depth
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
- Blood in the Stool
- Bowel Obstructions
- Granulomas
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
- Differences Between Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis
- Barium Enema
- Fecal Occult Blood Test
- Sigmoidoscopy
Blood Tests: In Depth
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: In Depth
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.
