Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a term primarily used to describe disorders that involve chronic inflammation of the digestive tract.

There are two main types of IBD:

• Crohn’s disease: Can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract from the mouth to the anus, but most commonly affects the end of the small intestine (the ileum) and the beginning of the colon.
• Ulcerative colitis: Characterised by the inflammation of the colon and the rectum.

What is the difference between IBS and IBD? 

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) are both conditions that affect the digestive system, but they are fundamentally different. 

IBS is characterised by symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, and altered bowel habits (diarrhoea or constipation) without causing any visible inflammation or damage to the digestive tract. It is often managed through dietary changes, stress management, and medications to alleviate symptoms.

In contrast, IBD encompasses chronic inflammatory conditions that cause significant inflammation and damage to the gastrointestinal tract, leading to symptoms like persistent diarrhoea, abdominal pain, and blood in the stool. 

IBD is a more severe condition with potential complications like strictures, fistulas, and an increased risk of colon cancer, requiring comprehensive treatment including medications, lifestyle changes, and sometimes surgery to manage inflammation and maintain remission.

What are the symptoms of IBD?

The main symptoms are:

• Diarrhoea or changes in bowel movements
• Abdominal pain
• Blood in the stools
• Fatigue 
• Weight loss 

What are the risk factors? 

While the exact cause of IBD is unknown, certain factors may increase the likelihood of developing the condition:

• Genetic factors: A family history of IBD increases the risk. People with a first-degree relative (parent, sibling, or child) with IBD are more likely to develop the disease.
• Smoking:Cigarette smoking is a well-known risk factor for Crohn’s disease.
• Diet and lifestyle:A diet high in fats, refined sugars, and processed foods may increase the risk of developing IBD while a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and fibre might lower the risk.

What are the complications of inflammatory bowel disease?

The complications of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are categorised into intestinal and extraintestinal.

Intestinal:

• Haemorrhage
• Strictures
• Colon perforation
• Anal fistulas
• Pelvic or perirectal abscesses
• Toxic megacolon
• Cholangiocarcinoma
• Colon cancer

Extraintestinal:

• Osteoporosis
• Deep vein thrombosis
• Anaemia
• Gallstones
• Primary sclerosing cholangitis
• Aphthous ulcers
• Arthritis
• Iritis
• Pyoderma gangrenosum

How is IBD diagnosed?

Diagnosing IBD typically involves a combination of medical history, physical examinations and diagnostic tests. 

1. Endoscopic procedures
   • Colonoscopy: This is one of the primary methods for diagnosing IBD. A flexible tube with a camera is inserted into the rectum to examine the entire colon. During the procedure, the doctor can take biopsies (small tissue samples) for analysis.
   • Sigmoidoscopy: Similar to a colonoscopy, but only the rectum and lower part of the colon are examined. It is less invasive and may be used if a complete colonoscopy is not needed.
   • Upper GI endoscopy: If symptoms suggest inflammation in the upper gastrointestinal tract, an endoscopy might be used to examine the oesophagus, stomach, and upper part of the small intestine.
2. Stool tests
   • These can detect blood, infection, and inflammation in the digestive tract.
3. Blood tests
4. Imaging studies
• CT (Computed Tomography) scan: CT scans can provide detailed images of the intestines and help detect complications such as abscesses, fistulas, or bowel obstructions.
• MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): Often used to visualise the small intestine and can help diagnose and monitor Crohn’s disease. It helps assess the severity and extent of the disease without radiation exposure.
• Ultrasound: An abdominal ultrasound may be used to check for bowel wall thickening and other signs of inflammation.

How is IBD treated?

The treatment for IBD depends on the severity and type of symptoms.

1. Medications
   • Steroids like prednisone are commonly prescribed for short-term use to quickly reduce inflammation during flare-ups. They are effective but not suitable for long-term use due to side effects.
   • Immunosuppressants to reduce inflammatory response.
2. Surgery
   • Surgery may be necessary if the disease does not respond to medication or if there are complications such as strictures, abscesses, or severe bleeding.
3. Diet
   • While no specific diet is proven to cause or cure IBD, certain dietary changes can help manage symptoms. A balanced diet low in processed foods and rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains is recommended.

Living with IBD can be challenging, but many people manage the condition by adopting lifestyle changes, using medications, and seeking support. Take medications as prescribed and attend regular check-ups with your doctor to monitor your condition and adjust treatments as needed.

Keep your healthcare providers informed about any changes in your symptoms and do ask questions or seek help when needed.

Make an appointment at Pantai Hospitals

Consult our doctors if you are experiencing symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease. A dedicated and expert team of gastroenterology and hepatology specialists at Pantai Hospitals is available for consultation to provide the best care and assistance.

Get in touch with us to book an appointment today if you have concerns or questions regarding inflammatory bowel disease. We assure you the best possible care tailored to your specific needs.

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