Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is the term used for a group of diseases and disorders that affect the intestinal tract. IBD causes the intestines to become inflamed and irritated. IBD can last a long time, is difficult to control, and often recurs.
IBD affects about 600,000 Americans every year. Some forms of IBD include
Crohn's disease
,
irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
, and
ulcerative colitis
.
There is no pharmacologic cure for IBD, but treatments can help control symptoms. While patients may temporarily recover and not experience any symptoms, recurring flare-ups are common.
The exact causes of IBD are unknown, but some hypotheses include:
- Heredity—having another family member with IBD
- Contracting a germ or infection that affects the intestinal tract
- Compromised immune system or infection that affects the immune system
IBD is not a contagious infection, so it cannot be passed from person to person.
A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition.
The following factors increase your chance of developing IBD:
- Having a family member with IBD
- Jewish ancestry increases the risk of certain types of IBD, like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis
- Problems with the immune system
- Poor diet
Symptoms depend on the type of IBD, but common symptoms may include:
- Abdominal pain and cramping
- Diarrhea
- Weight loss and loss of appetite
- Bleeding from the intestines
- Ulcers in the intestines
- Inflammation of the rectum
- Draining around the rectum
- Bloating or feeling of fullness
- Gas
- Bloody diarrhea
- Abdominal sounds (gurgling, etc.)
- Nausea and vomiting
- Joint pain
Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical exam. Tests may include the following:
- Endoscopy—a thin, lighted tube inserted down the throat to examine the colon and intestines
- Colonoscopy
—a thin, lighted tube inserted down the throat to examine the lungs and air passages
- Barium Enema
—injection of fluid into the rectum that makes your colon show up on an x-ray so the doctor can see abnormal spots in your colon
- X-ray
—a test that uses radiation to take a picture of structures inside the body, especially bones
- Blood tests
- Stool culture
Talk with your doctor about the best treatment plan for you. Treatment options include:
Eating a healthy diet, low in fats and rich in fruits and vegetables, can control IBD symptoms. Reducing fiber and dairy products in the diet is also recommended.
Reducing stress and getting plenty of rest can also reduce symptoms and flare-ups.
Most medications for IBD focus on reducing the inflammation that causes symptoms. Medications include:
- Anti-inflammatory drugs
- Corticosteroids
- Immune system suppressors
- Antibiotics to kill germs in the intestinal tract
- Antidiarrheals
- Laxatives
- Pain relievers
While surgery is not helpful for all types of IBD, surgery to remove the colon is an option for patients who suffer from very severe ulcerative colitis.
Because IBD is often inherited, there are no known measures that can prevent getting the disease. To prevent flare-ups, it is important to maintain a healthy diet and reduce stress.
Last reviewed August 2007 by Daus Mahnke, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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