Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) comprises two conditions - Ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. It is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the digestive tract.
When to suspect IBD?
If a person has the below symptoms when affected with IBD.
The symptoms are,
- Diarrhoea
- Fatigue
- Abdominal pain and cramping
- Blood in stools
- Reduced appetite
- Unexplained weight loss
Risk factors
- Genetics
- Improper diet
- Gluten sensitivity
- Low immunity
- Stress
When to consult a doctor?
If a person has a consistent change in bowel habits, it is important to consult a doctor.
What investigations are available for IBD?
The following tests are done to investigate IBD,
- Colonoscopy
- Flexible sigmoidoscopy
- Capsule endoscopy
- Upper GI endoscopy
- Balloon assisted enteroscopy
What are the treatment modalities available for IBD?
The treatments available for IBD are,
- Anti-inflammatory drugs
- Immune suppressors
Prognosis
- Intestinal complications with nutritional deficiency – High risk
- High risk for Colon cancer in Ulcerative colitis
- Prevalence of extraintestinal complications such as - Uveitis, Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis, Ankylosing Spondylitis, Pyoderma Gangrenosum, Erythema Nodosum, Coronary Artery Disease.
How to prevent IBD?
The following steps can be practised to prevent IBD,
- Stress-free life
- Exercise
- Nutrition-rich foods
Conclusion
IBD is a life-challenging and life-changing disease. One must take the utmost care in taking care of one’s lifestyle, food habits, and stress levels, as any moderate change may be a triggering factor. A proper precautionary measure and proper planning are mandatory for people affected with inflammatory bowel disease.
