Crohn’s & Colitis Glossary

Symptom

A change in how you feel or your physical appearance that is a sign of illness or health concern.

Toxic megacolon

A severe complication associated with ulcerative colitis that leads to rapid enlargement of the colon and requires immediate treatment and surgery. Symptoms include pain, distension or swelling of the abdomen, fever, rapid heart rate, constipation, and dehydration.

Trigger Food

A food that can make your IBD symptoms worse – such as causing diarrhea, bloating, pain, or vomiting.

Ulcer

A break in the skin or lining of the GI tract. In Crohn’s disease, ulcers can occur anywhere between the mouth and the anus. In ulcerative colitis, ulcers occur in the colon.