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Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is a chronic inflammatory disease of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. The two main types are Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. While both conditions involve inflammation, they affect different areas of the GI tract and can vary in severity.
IBD is not the same as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), a separate condition that affects how the bowel functions but does not cause inflammation.
Symptoms & Diagnosis
Common symptoms of IBD include:
- Abdominal pain and cramping
- Diarrhea, often persistent or bloody
- Fatigue
- Weight loss
- Loss of appetite
- Urgency to have a bowel movement
Diagnosis involves a combination of:
- Clinical examination
- Blood and stool tests
- Imaging studies (CT, MRI, intestinal ultrasound)
- Endoscopic procedures such as colonoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, capsule endoscopy, and/or upper endoscopy
- Biopsies of the intestinal lining
Early and accurate diagnosis is critical to managing the disease and preventing complications.
Treatment Options
While there is no cure for IBD, various treatments may help reduce inflammation, relieve symptoms, and maintain remission. Treatment plans are tailored to each patient and may include:
- Medications, such as anti-inflammatory drugs, immunosuppressants, or biologics
- Nutritional support, including dietary changes and supplementation
- Surgery, in some cases, to remove damaged portions of the intestine or treat complications
- Ongoing monitoring and follow-up care
A multidisciplinary team works together to adjust treatment as the disease changes over time.
Living with the Condition
Managing IBD is more than just treating symptoms – it’s about treating the whole patient, improving their quality of life, and putting the disease into remission. At the Digestive Health Institute, we support patients through:
- Coordinated care with gastroenterologists, surgeons, dietitians, behavioral health specialists, and nurse navigators.
- Education on lifestyle and dietary adjustments
- Support groups and counseling resources
- Tools to help manage stress, medication adherence, and symptom tracking
With the right care and support, individuals with IBD can lead full, active lives.