Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a term for long-term conditions, mainly Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, that cause inflammation in the digestive tract. This inflammation leads to symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhoea, and fatigue. IBD tends to follow a pattern of flare-ups and calmer periods and usually needs ongoing care.
Overview
What is inflammatory bowel disease?
Inflammatory bowel disease is a group of long-term conditions in which the digestive tract becomes inflamed. The two main forms are Crohn's disease, which can affect any part of the gut, and ulcerative colitis, which affects the large bowel. The inflammation is ongoing and tends to flare up at times and settle at others, which is why IBD usually needs long-term management.
How common is inflammatory bowel disease / who does it affect?
IBD affects people across many countries and can begin at any age, though it is often diagnosed in younger adults. Both men and women are affected. The exact frequency varies between regions. A family history of the condition can increase the likelihood, suggesting that inherited factors play a part alongside other influences.
Symptoms and Causes
What are the symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease?
Common symptoms include diarrhoea, abdominal pain or cramping, blood in the stool, tiredness, and unintended weight loss. Symptoms vary depending on the type and which part of the gut is affected, and they often come and go. During a flare-up they can be more intense, while quieter periods may bring few or no symptoms.
What causes inflammatory bowel disease and who is at risk?
The exact cause is not fully understood, but IBD is thought to involve the immune system reacting against the gut in people who are genetically susceptible. Environmental factors may also contribute. Risk is higher in those with a family history of the condition. Unlike some bowel problems, IBD is not caused by diet alone, though diet can affect symptoms.
Diagnosis and Tests
How is inflammatory bowel disease diagnosed?
Diagnosis usually combines several tests, as no single test confirms IBD. Blood and stool tests can show inflammation, while endoscopy, such as a colonoscopy, allows doctors to view the gut lining and take small samples for examination. Imaging scans may also be used to see affected areas and to tell apart the different forms of IBD.
Management and Treatment
How is inflammatory bowel disease treated or managed?
There is no cure, but treatment can control inflammation and ease symptoms. Care typically involves medicines that calm the immune response and reduce inflammation, helping to bring on and maintain calmer periods. Nutritional support may be needed, and some people require surgery if other treatments are not enough. Ongoing specialist follow-up helps adjust treatment over time.
Prevention
Can inflammatory bowel disease be prevented or its risk reduced?
IBD cannot currently be prevented, as its causes are not fully understood and partly inherited. However, people with the condition can take steps to reduce flare-ups, such as taking treatment as advised, not smoking, and attending regular reviews. Identifying and managing personal symptom triggers may also help keep the condition more settled.
Additional Common Questions
What is the difference between IBD and IBS?
They are different conditions. IBD causes visible inflammation and damage in the gut, while irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) affects how the gut works without causing inflammation. They can share some symptoms but need different care.
Does diet cause inflammatory bowel disease?
Diet is not thought to cause IBD. However, certain foods may worsen symptoms during a flare-up, so some people find adjusting their diet helps them feel more comfortable.
Can people with IBD lead a normal life?
Many people with IBD live full, active lives. With appropriate treatment and regular follow-up, symptoms can often be well controlled for long periods between flare-ups.
Sources
This health topic is for general information and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician about your individual situation. See our medical disclaimer.