The term inflammatory bowel disease encompasses many chronic inflammatory disorders of the gastrointestinal tract. It usually encompasses Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Dr Avadh Patel as a colorectal surgeon based in Ahmedabad, comes across many patients suffering from this critical disease, IBD. In this blog, we discuss the symptoms, causes, and treatment to make our patients more informed. Let’s start with understanding about IBD.
What is Inflammatory Bowel Disease?
IBD is a disease characterized by an inflammatory condition of the GI tract. Symptoms can be debilitating. The exact aetiology is unknown; thus, it is said to be due to an interaction of genetic, environmental, and immune factors. This greatly impacts a patient’s quality of life, hence early diagnosis and management are important.
Symptoms of IBD
The symptoms of IBD may vary in different people and include:
Abdominal Pain and Cramping: Chronic pain often is worse after meals.
Diarrhoea: Frequent, urgent, and bloody faeces are common, especially in ulcerative colitis.
Fatigue: Chronic inflammation can result in fatigue and weakness.
Weight Loss: Impaired nutrient absorption and loss of appetite can lead to weight loss.
Fever: Some patients may exhibit fever at the time of flare-ups.
Mouth Sores: Ulcers may appear in the mouth, especially in Crohn’s disease.
Causes of IBD
Though the exact cause of IBD is not known, several contributing factors in its development include the following:
Genetics: One is at an increased risk with a family history of IBD.
Immune System: Inappropriate response by the immune system could result in inflammation of the gut.
Environmental Factors: Diet, stress, and medications may trigger or worsen symptoms of IBD.
Microbiome: An imbalance of gut bacteria can contribute to the development of IBD.
Diagnosis of IBD
Most healthcare professionals make a diagnosis through a combination of medical history assessments, physical examinations, and diagnostic tests. These generally include:
Blood Tests: Anemia and markers of inflammation can be traced from the blood.
Stool Tests: These are conducted to rule out infection and determine inflammation.
Endoscopy: A procedure like colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy allows direct visualization of the intestinal lining and biopsy samples.
Treatment Options for IBD
Although there is no cure so far for IBD, management can be achieved through many different treatment options that can render the disease symptomatic and induce remission, as follows:
Medications:
Anti-inflammatory Drugs: 5-ASA compounds, such as mesalamine, are often the first line of treatment.
Corticosteroids: These can help reduce inflammation during flare-ups.
Immunosuppressants: Medications like azathioprine or methotrexate can suppress the immune response.
Biologics: Targeted therapies that block specific pathways in the inflammatory process.
Dietary Changes:
Identify and avoid certain foods which may trigger flare-ups and exacerbate symptoms.
A high-fiber diet, lean proteins, and healthy fats can contribute to regularizing the gut.
Surgery:
In extreme conditions wherein medication may not be effective, surgical intervention is performed. Surgical options vary from just removing the damaged portions of the intestine to extensive surgery for those with advanced disease.
Lifestyle Modifications:
Management of stress, regular physical activity, and a healthy weight contribute to a better lifestyle.
Conclusion
Although living with Inflammatory Bowel Disease may be tough, patients could still lead a life fairly free of symptoms with the proper knowledge and treatment. If one suspects that he or she is suffering from IBD, or if one is facing an aggravated situation in managing the condition, one should not hesitate to seek professional help. Our Ahmedabad-based practice focuses on patient education and individualized treatment plans, guiding you toward a healthier and more enriching life. For effective Inflammatory Bowel Disease Treatment in Ahmedabad, consult Dr. Avadh Patel.