Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is a chronic inflammatory condition of the gastrointestinal tract that primarily includes two main disorders: Crohn’s disease and Ulcerative colitis.
– Crohn’s Disease: Crohn’s disease can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract, from the mouth to the anus. It involves inflammation that extends through the entire thickness of the bowel wall and can lead to complications such as strictures, fistulas, and abscesses.
– Ulcerative Colitis: Ulcerative colitis primarily affects the colon and rectum, causing inflammation and ulcers in the lining of the colon. It typically involves continuous areas of inflammation starting from the rectum and extending proximally through the colon.
– Symptoms: Common symptoms of IBD may include:
– Abdominal pain and cramping
– Diarrhoea (which may be bloody)
– Rectal bleeding
– Weight loss
– Fatigue
– Fever
– Loss of appetite
In some people with IBD, the inflammation can affect areas of the body outside the intestines
- Eyes: redness and inflammation due to episcleritis (inflammation between the inner eyelids and the white of the eye) or uveitis (inflammation inside the eye). Experts estimate that 10% to 43% of people with IBD develop eye problems, and regular visits to the eye doctor are important.
- Mouth: inflammation (stomatitis), mouth sores and ulcers
- Liver: fat in the liver (steatosis)
- Biliary tract: gallstones and inflammation of the bile duct system (sclerosing cholangitis)
- Kidneys: kidney stones, hydronephrosis (swollen kidneys caused by a backup of urine), fistulas and urinary tract infections
- Skin: erythema nodosum (tender, red bumps on the shins), pyoderma gangrenosum, a rare condition that causes severe skin ulcers on the legs.
- Joints and spine: spondylolysis (stress fracture of the vertebrae), sacroiliitis (inflammation of the joints connecting the lower spine with the pelvis) and arthritis in the limbs
- Blood circulation, including phlebitis (inflammation of blood vessels)
– Causes: The exact cause of IBD is unknown, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic, environmental, and immune system factors.
– Diagnosis: Diagnosis of IBD involves a combination of medical history assessment, physical examination, laboratory tests, imaging studies (such as endoscopy and colonoscopy), and histological evaluation of tissue samples.
– Treatment: Treatment aims to control inflammation, alleviate symptoms, and achieve remission. It may include medications such as anti-inflammatory drugs, immunosuppressants, biologic therapies, and sometimes surgery in severe cases.
– Complications: Complications of IBD may include intestinal strictures, fistulas, abscesses, malnutrition, osteoporosis, and an increased risk of colorectal cancer.
– Lifestyle Management: Lifestyle modifications such as following a healthy diet, managing stress, avoiding smoking, and getting regular exercise can help manage symptoms and improve overall well-being in individuals with IBD.
– Regular Monitoring: Regular monitoring and follow-up with healthcare providers are essential for managing IBD effectively, adjusting treatment as needed, and monitoring for complications.
Individuals in Gorakhpur seeking expert care for inflammatory bowel disease can consult Dr. Deepak Chandra Srivastava, a distinguished MD in medicine known for his expertise in diagnosing and managing complex gastrointestinal disorders like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Dr. Deepak Chandra Srivastava’s compassionate approach to patient care and comprehensive treatment plans ensure optimal management and improved quality of life for individuals living with IBD.