Inflammatory bowel diseases are actually a group of disorders that lead to the intestines becoming inflamed. This was once thought of as a collection of immune disease-related problems, but new research indicates that this might not actually be the case in all IBD patients. These conditions can lead to bowel injury and acute phases of bowel problems followed by remission periods.
The symptoms of IBD can range in severity depending upon the patient and the particular form of IDB that they have been diagnosed with. Common Symptoms are:
This set of diseases has no known cause. There is some suggestion that genetics might play a role, but other research indicates that viruses, antigens, or bacteria might be the reason that the body attacks the intestinal tract. This condition can be related to inflammatory processes in the body that are linked with other diseases that a patient might have, or they can be caused by autoimmune conditions.
The risk factors for this condition are mostly related to a family history of IBD and race. White people and Jewish people are more likely to suffer from IBD.
Many cases of IBD will need various kinds of tests to identify this condition. Patients will typically be asked to provide blood samples, and possibly a stool sample. Barium X-ray studies are usually also done to see what the transit time is for food being processed through the digestive tract. Patient electrolyte levels and protein levels might be reviewed to see if there are digestive issues leading to a risk that the other organs will be affected.
Imaging such as CT imaging can be done to visualise the colon and other parts of the digestive tract, or an upper endoscopy may be done to look at the health of the stomach.
It is not possible to prevent this condition. There is ongoing research into the causes of IBD, but there are no clear causal links that would provide guidance for the prevention of this condition in patients that have a family history or who are struggling with other GI health issues.
Treatment of IBD can vary depending upon the symptoms that someone is experiencing and the severity of their condition. Diet adjustments to increase fibre and remove specific types of food like dairy can help some patients feel better. Small, frequent meals are typically recommended, and creating an exercise routine is also necessary. Patients are usually directed to find ways to eliminate or manage stress in their life and to make sure that they are getting enough sleep.
The primary goal of medical treatment is to halt the inflammation process before the other organs become involved. Medications can be given to try and increase the chances that patients will remain in remission, and anti-inflammatory drugs like balsalazide and mesalamine might be given to patients. Fistulas and other forms of secondary problems related to gut health might require surgery or their own unique management protocols.
These conditions often require that many specialists work with a patient’s primary care doctor to find a balance between medication, lifestyle changes, and dietary management that help keep IBD in remission long term. Despite adhering to treatment, many patients with IBD still experience flares throughout their lifetime.