Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis: Everything You Need to Know

by Fred Saibil MD

It has become acceptable to talk about heart disease, ulcers and even cancer, but inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) -- which includes two chronic conditions known as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis -- has remained for too long the secret illness that no one wants to discuss. Now Dr. Fred Saibil, a renowned expert on IBD, provides concise, up-to-date information on these common conditions. Dr. Saibil begins by describing the normal gastrointestinal system, and then explains what goes wrong in someone with IBD. He also

Genres: Nonfiction, Health, Reference

176 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1996

Reviews

[Amy · Rating 3 out of 5]

I found this book a very readable introduction to the diseases and quite helpful. The writing is clear, concise, and includes medical terms with good descriptions of what they mean. I was recently diagnosed with Crohn's and this book cleared up several questions I had about the disease. The first few chapters give a nice overview of how the digestive system works and how these diseases affect the system. The nutrition chapter clearly discusses how different foods interact with the system and when they might be good to avoid. This is so much more helpful than a list of things I shouldn't eat. If I don't know why I shouldn't eat something, it is much harder for me to do so! The book also discusses the current (third edition was published in 2011) treatments and the pros and cons of each. I found that very helpful as I am going through that decision-making process with my doctor at the moment. The only shortfall of the book was that I wished for more depth on some of the topics. I was interested in a few more ideas about nutrition and whether or not they are supported by research - such as the so-called "leaky gut" syndrome some discuss with the disease. I am also curious about several items on various "do not eat" lists I find for Crohn's and didn't find them in this book. Overall, I found it a very useful reference, but still left me with a few questions. I borrowed it from the library, but I might purchase a copy to have handy.

[Lisa · Rating 3 out of 5]

I checked this out due to our oldest son's recent diagnosis. It was very readable until the chapter called Drugs, Biotics and Other Treatments. The disease manifests itself in so many different ways and degrees, it's quite overwhelming. Worst case scenarios would be extremely difficult and life-changing to say the least. So I really only read the first four chapters, which is a good overview of the GI system and the history and diagnosis of IBD, then skimmed the rest. I'm sure we will learn more as we go. Good to have some background, basic information and clarification, and some sound medical advice about common misinformation, such as dietary factors. It really needs to be dealt with on an individual, case-by-case basis.

[Mike Alcock · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good primer for anyone with an IBD: up to date, comprehensive, and written for the lay(wo)man - dare I even say "digestible." I was diagnosed with Crohn's at 9, and have a relatively mild case, so it's taken me this long (and a pesky flare-up) to actually sit down and seriously learn about how my insides work (and don't). I feel a lot more confident in advocating on my own behalf with physicians and clinicians, and can actually throw out/absorb terms like "jujenum" and "ascending colon" with something like expertise.

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Anyone with Crohn's or Colitis should have this book on hand as a primer.
Pretty up-to-date with treatments and medication information, and an easy read.

[Barb · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great overview of disease

[Lisa Bissonette · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well written with a lot of clear information. Recommended for any one battling these diseases, care givers, or their loved ones. Will add this one to books I own for future references.