Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) includes two chronic conditions, Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. It has remained for too long the secret illness no one wants to admit to having, let alone discuss. One percent of the population has IBD, yet its cause is unknown and there is no known cure. Revised and updated, Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis is the complete practical guide for anyone dealing with inflammatory bowel disease. Fred Saibil, MD, a renowned expert on IBD, provides the most up-to-date, concise, critical and practical information on the common symptoms and side effects. He describes the normal gastrointestinal system and then explains what specifically goes wrong in those suffering from IBD. Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis includes important information on: Signs and symptoms; Effects of diet; Available drugs and how they work; Children and IBD; Surgical options; Effects on sexual activity and childbearing; Self-management of IBD. For patients, their relatives and caregivers, Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis explains the plain facts about this terrible disease, which seriously affects the daily lives of so many.