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Inflammatory bowel diseases are long-lasting diseases that cause irritation and ulcers in the gastrointestinal tract. The most common disorders are ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease.

The dried inner bark of the slippery-elm tree was a favorite of many Native American tribes, and was subsequently adopted by European colonists. Slippery elm was used as a treatment for sore throat, coughs, dryness of the lungs, skin inflammations, wounds, and irritation of the digestive tract.

Irritable bowel syndrome doesn't easily fit into the traditional medical model. Researchers have not yet come up with a coherent scientific explanation, let alone a cause, for its debilitating symptoms. This means that there is no cure or even a comprehensive treatment. The best that doctors can offer is management of symptoms, one at a time.

Your child is adjusting to medications, diet, and lifestyle changes to manage his disease. But some of the greatest challenges he faces are social and emotional challenges. Find out what you can do to help.

Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America

National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases