Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBD) are chronic conditions that involve inflammation of the digestive tract. The two main types of IBD are Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis. These conditions can cause significant discomfort and impact the quality of life but are manageable with proper treatment.

Types of IBD

Crohn's Disease

Crohn’s Disease can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract, from the mouth to the anus, but most commonly affects the end of the small intestine (ileum) and the beginning of the colon. Inflammation can occur in patches and may involve the entire thickness of the bowel wall.

Common Symptoms:

• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhea
• Fatigue
• Weight loss
• Malnutrition
• Vomiting
• Blood in stool
• Fever

Ulcerative Colitis

This condition affects only the colon (large intestine) and rectum. Inflammation is continuous and limited to the innermost lining of the colon.

Common Symptoms:

• Bloody diarrhea
• Abdominal pain
• Urgency to defecate
• Fatigue

Symptoms of IBD

• Diarrhea (sometimes with blood)
• Abdominal pain and cramping
• Fatigue
• Weight loss / Failure to gain weight
• Loss of appetite
• Fever
• Urgency to have a bowel movement

Diagnosis of IBD

IBD is diagnosed using a combination of the following:

• Medical history and physical examination
• Blood tests
• Stool tests
• Endoscopic procedures (like colonoscopy)
• Imaging tests (such as CT scan or MRI)
• Biopsy of intestinal tissue

Treatment Options

For Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD):

• Anti-inflammatory medications, steroids, and other drugs
• Immunosuppression
• Biologics
• Surgery (in cases where the affected portion of the intestine needs removal)
• Dietary and lifestyle changes
• Stress management
• Smoking cessation

For Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): (Different from IBD)

• Dietary changes
• Antibiotics and other medications
• Mental health therapies

Tips for Managing IBD

What to Do:

• Follow your medication schedule strictly
• Maintain a food diary to track symptom triggers
• Stay hydrated
• Have regular follow-ups with your doctor
• Get vaccinated as advised (especially for flu and pneumonia)

What to Avoid:

• Avoid smoking
• Limit intake of spicy, fatty, and processed foods
• Avoid alcohol and caffeine during flare-ups
• Do not skip medications
• Avoid unnecessary stress

For More Information

If you have more queries related to IBD, please contact the Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology:
📞 0484-2851225 / +91-7994999790

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the difference between Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis?
Crohn’s Disease can affect any part of the digestive tract and involve the full bowel wall, while Ulcerative Colitis affects only the colon and rectum and involves the innermost lining.

2. Can IBD be cured completely?
IBD is a chronic condition and cannot be cured, but with the right treatment, it can be effectively managed and kept in remission.

3. How is IBD diagnosed?
Diagnosis involves medical history, blood and stool tests, colonoscopy, imaging (CT/MRI), and sometimes a biopsy of the intestinal tissue.

4. Are diet and lifestyle important in managing IBD?
Yes, maintaining a proper diet, reducing stress, avoiding smoking, and staying hydrated are crucial to managing IBD symptoms.

5. Is IBD the same as IBS?
No. While both affect the digestive system, IBD involves inflammation and can cause structural damage, whereas IBS is a functional disorder without inflammation.