Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a term used mainly to describe two conditions: ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease.
Ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease are long-term conditions involving inflammation of the gut.
Ulcerative colitis affects only the intestine (large intestine). Crohn's disease can affect any part of the digestive system, from the mouth to the anus.
People of any age can get IBD, but it is usually diagnosed between the ages of 15 and 40.