Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis are two main disease categories that belong to a larger group of conditions known as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis are long-term chronic health conditions that may be controlled through treatment and are not fatal.
The onset is usually diagnosed between the ages of 10 and 20 years of age. The conditions affect males and females equally.
Signs and symptoms of Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis include diarrhea (sometimes bloody). fatigue and crampy abdominal pain which may come without warning and create sudden urges to use the bathroom
Children with IBD may have delays in physical growth and puberty, appearing younger and smaller than their peers. They may also experience joint pain and skin rashes. Some children experience more chronic pain than others. Children with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis who experience chronic pain may have school-related difficulties such as frequent absences, decreased ability to concentrate and perform academically and impaired ability to cope with the demands of the classroom setting.
The Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of America publishes A Guide for Teachers and Other School Personnel, a free booklet containing information on how schools can assist students with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis in the school setting.