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