What is IBD?
IBD stands for Inflammatory Bowel Disease. It’s a long-term condition where parts of your digestive system (especially the intestines) become swollen and inflamed.
There are two main types:
- Crohn’s Disease – can affect any part of the digestive tract, from the mouth to the anus.
- Ulcerative Colitis – affects only the large intestine (colon and rectum).
Symptoms of IBD
- Abdomen pain or cramps
- Loose motions – may be mixed with blood or mucus
- Weight loss
- Fatigue
- Low appetite
Symptoms can come and go. Sometimes the disease is quiet and sometimes it flares up on its own.
What causes IBD?
Exact cause is unknown, but IBD is likely related to:
- A problem with the body’s immune system attacking the intestines
- Genetic (it can run in families)
- Possibly certain foods or stress may trigger flare-ups
Is it the same as IBS?
No. IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) sounds similar but is different. IBS doesn’t cause inflammation or damage to the gut.
Treatment of IBD
There’s no cure as of now, but it can be managed with:
- Medicines to reduce inflammation and control symptoms (Required for long duration)
- Special diets (for some people)
- Surgery (in severe cases)
When to seek doctor consultation?
If you have chronic problems like diarrhea, blood in stool, or weight loss, consult a Gastroenterologist. You may need tests like blood workup, stool tests, or a colonoscopy.
