Inflammatory Bowel Disease

• Inflammatory Bowel Disease, or IBD, is an ailment that affects the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Ulcers form along the GI tract, anywhere from the mouth to the anus. Crohn's disease is a form of inflammatory bowel disease that is mainly found in women, caucasians and those of Jewish descent. While it appears to run in families, there is no established pattern of inheritance. Symptoms of Crohn's disease include diarrhea, stomach cramps, bloody stool, weight loss, fatigue and joint pain. (See reference 1: The Family Doctor: Crohn's Disease.)
  
  

Short-Term Mood Disorders

• Many patients with Crohn's disease and other inflammatory bowel disease suffer from mood disorders because of the nature of their illness. In a Canadian Community Health Survey, 79% of inflammatory bowel disease patients had exhibited a form of anxiety disorder first. Over a period of twelve months, Crohn's disease patients showed a prevalence of panic disorder and major depression. (See reference 2: Reuters Health Information, "Depression, Anxiety Increase with Inflammatory Bowel Disease.")
  
  

Long-Term Mood Disorders

• Crohn's disease patients also run the risk of developing long-term mood disorders. These mood disorders include generalized anxiety disorder, also known as GAD, obsessive-compulsive disorder and major depression. Long-term mood disorders are worsened if patients do not seek out help when symptoms first appear. (See reference 2: Reuters Health Information, "Depression, Anxiety Increase with Inflammatory Bowel Disease.")
  
  

Treatment

• The symptoms of Crohn's disease can be managed through medication. Salicylates and antibiotics are effective treatments for mild forms. For more severe cases, steroids and immunosuppressants are administered, and surgery is a possible option. (See reference 1: The Family Doctor: Crohn's Disease.) Therapy and medication, with antidepressants for instance, are used to treat the symptoms of mood disorders.
  
  

Support System

• Crohn's disease patients suffering from mood disorders should not feel alone. Support groups and therapy can provide the help needed, and it helps to connect with other Crohn's disease patients. In addition, chapters of Crohn's disease organizations can provide further resources.