This or That: Crohn's and UC Edition

Some people experience this, others experience that. Tell us know more about your IBD by answering the questions below!

This or That

Which type of IBD do you have?

Both conditions affect the bowel, and both have a lot of similar symptoms. Ulcerative colitis is limited to the colon while Crohn's disease can occur anywhere between the mouth and the anus.

This or That

Which symptom is worse?

Hard to choose, right? We hear from a lot of people living with Crohn's and ulcerative colitis that these are 2 of absolute the worst symptoms to live with. Because, well, they are.

This or That

On most days, I feel my best...

IBD symptoms may fluctuate throughout the day. (And it's always fun when they arrive unexpectedly!) The same can go for energy levels.

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This or That

I primarily receive IBD treatment from my...

Some of the types of healthcare professionals who support a patient in diagnosing, treating, and managing IBD may include:

  • Primary care provider
  • Gastroenterologist
  • Rheumatologist
  • Colorectal surgeon

This or That

I have more trust in the advice I receive from

Sometimes we don't want advice. ("No, changing my diet and practicing 'self-care' won't cure my Crohn's...") But other times, it's really helpful to receive guidance.

Whether it's from your care team about possible treatment paths, or it's from hearing others' experiences with food, medication, or symptom management. It's a careful balance of wanting help from people who "get it," and ignoring people who just don't.

This or That

Are you on a specific diet for IBD?

Food triggers are different depending on the individual and their body. And there is no one specific diet that works for everyone with IBD. It often comes down to a lot of trial and error – and a lot of stomach pain in the process!

This or That

Which topic are you more interested in?

We know the questions we're asking are only scratching the surface. Because when it comes to living with IBD, it's about more than just symptoms and treatment. It affects so many aspects of our life – physically and mentally.

This or That

IBD has had more of an impact on my life...

Crohn's and UC can be unpredictable. Which means canceling plans or missing a day of work can feel beyond our control. We hope our friends or our boss understands, but sometimes they don't. And we hate that being sick can have so much power over our lives and relationships.

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This article represents the opinions, thoughts, and experiences of the author; none of this content has been paid for by any advertiser. The InflammatoryBowelDisease.net team does not recommend or endorse any products or treatments discussed herein. Learn more about how we maintain editorial integrity here.

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