Living with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) can be a challenge, not only for those of you who have Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, but also for those of you who have a family member or close friend afflicted with one of these disorders. Meeting this challenge requires the help of knowledgeable health-care professionals. Knowing what impact Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis may have on your life and what management strategies are available is also very important. A well-informed patient will have the best chance for recovery and remaining healthy.