Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) Diagnosis and Treatment

Types of IBD

The two primary forms of inflammatory bowel disease are Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis:

• Crohn’s disease: This disorder causes ulcers (sores) in the gastrointestinal system. It can appear anywhere from the mouth to the anus, although it usually affects the small intestine and the upper region of the large intestine.
• Ulcerative colitis (UC): This causes inflammation and ulcers in the large intestine. It typically begins in the rectum and may extend to part or the entire colon.

Symptoms

IBD symptoms can range from mild to severe, appearing unpredictably. When symptoms flare up, a healthcare provider may describe it as an active disease. If they subside after treatment, the condition is considered to be in remission. Common symptoms involve:

• Lower abdominal pain, often resembling stomach cramps.
• Blood in stool.
• Fatigue.
• Persistent diarrhoea.
• Unintentional weight loss.

Causes

IBD occurs when immune system cells in the GI tract accidentally invade healthy tissue, triggering inflammation that results in Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. While the exact cause is unclear, but researchers are looking at gene mutations that:

• Regulate immune responses to prevent overreactions.
• Maintain the intestinal mucosal barrier, the body’s first line of defense.
• Control bacterial development in the gut.

Mutations in these genes, known as susceptibility genes, increase IBD risk. More than 160 such genes exist, and if inherited, certain factors may trigger symptoms—though they don’t directly cause the illness. Common triggers consist of:

• NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs).
• Antibiotics.
• Cigarette smoking.
• Too much stress.

Complications

IBD can cause a variety of health problems, both in the gastrointestinal system and elsewhere in the body. Some problems are severe or even life-threatening, like:

• Colon cancer: People with IBD have a higher risk of developing colon cancer.
• Perforated bowel: Symptoms include intense abdominal pain, bloating, and tenderness.
• Toxic megacolon: This condition causes bloody diarrhoea, extreme abdominal pain, and sensitivity when touching the stomach.
• Anal fistula and anal stenosis: Anal stenosis occurs when the anal canal narrows, making bowel movements difficult.

IBD may potentially cause following issues:

• Low red blood cell count (anaemia)
• Blood clots
• Kidney stones
• Eye irritation and pain
• Mouth ulcers
• Liver conditions like cirrhosis and primary sclerosing cholangitis
• Malnutrition and poor nutrient absorption
• Skin rashes and sores
• Joint inflammation and swelling
• Osteoporosis (weakened bones)

Diagnosing IBD

A doctor will begin the diagnosing process by performing a physical exam and discussing your symptoms, including their duration, severity, and frequency. They may request the following tests:

• Complete blood count (CBC)
• Colonoscopy
• Capsule endoscopy
• Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)
• Computed tomography (CT) scan
• Flexible sigmoidoscopy
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan
• Upper endoscopy

Management and Treatment

Treatment varies depending on the kind of IBD, but the goal is typically to achieve and maintain remission. The doctor may give medication to help with symptoms, and in some instances, surgery may be necessary.

Medication:

IBD therapies aim to reduce inflammation and regulate immunological responses. Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis are frequently treated with identical drugs, including:

• Antibiotics are used to treat infections, including those caused by anal fistulas.
• Patients with Crohn's disease may be administered antidiarroheal medications such as loperamide.
• Biologics can decrease immune system activity and avoid inflammation.
• Corticosteroids can lessen inflammation during flare-ups.
• Immunomodulators and immunosuppressants assist modulate the immune system.

Surgery:

Medication can help control symptoms for years. However, if treatments stop working, surgical options like a colectomy may be recommended.

Conclusion

Receiving an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) diagnosis could lead to mixed feelings. Living with a chronic illness may be challenging, even while it's comforting to finally know what's causing those recurrent aches and diarroheal episodes.

However, you are not alone. With the right medication, support, and lifestyle modifications, IBD may be managed, allowing you to live your life as you see fit. We are here to support you in taking charge, finding relief, and continuing to pursue your passions.

For more information or to address any concerns, book an appointment with us today.