Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a term used for chronic conditions that lead to persistent inflammation in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. It primarily refers to two major disorders: ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease.
- Ulcerative Colitis: This condition causes inflammation and ulcer formation along the inner lining of the colon and rectum.
- Crohn’s Disease: Characterized by inflammation that can penetrate deeper layers of the digestive tract. While it commonly affects the small intestine, it may also impact the large intestine and, in rare cases, the upper digestive tract.
Common Symptoms :
- Abdominal pain
- Diarrhea, sometimes with blood
- Urgent need for bowel movements and possible incontinence
- Rectal bleeding
- Weight loss
- Anemia
- Anxiety and depression
- Malnutrition and stunted growth in children with IBD
Causes & Risk Factors:
IBD is classified as an autoimmune disorder, meaning the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy digestive tissue. While the exact cause is unknown, genetic predisposition plays a significant role. Other risk factors include:
- Family history of IBD
- Smoking
- Stress
- Use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
Diagnosis:
- Detailed medical and family history evaluation
- Colonoscopy and biopsy
- Upper endoscopy with biopsy
- Capsule endoscopy
- Stool sample analysis
- Imaging tests (X-rays, CT scan, MRI)
- Blood tests to check for IBD-specific markers (e.g., ASCA and ANCA antibodies)
Potential Complications:
Both ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease can lead to complications, some unique to each condition:
- Increased Colon Cancer Risk: Prolonged inflammation can elevate the risk of developing colon cancer.
- Inflammation Beyond the Gut: IBD flare-ups can cause joint pain (arthritis), skin issues, and eye inflammation (uveitis).
- Medication Side Effects: Some IBD medications may increase susceptibility to infections or have potential links to certain cancers. Corticosteroids may contribute to osteoporosis, high blood pressure, and other health concerns.
- Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis: Chronic inflammation can cause scarring of the bile ducts, potentially leading to liver damage.
- Severe Dehydration: Excessive diarrhea may result in dehydration.
- Bowel Obstruction: Thickening and narrowing of the intestinal wall in Crohn’s disease may block the passage of food.
- Anal Fissures: Small tears in the anal tissue may lead to pain and infection.
- Fistulas and Abscesses: Inflammation may create abnormal connections between different parts of the intestine, sometimes forming infected pus-filled abscesses.
- Toxic Megacolon: A rare but serious condition where the colon expands and swells rapidly in ulcerative colitis.
- Malnutrition: Nutrient absorption issues may lead to deficiencies, particularly in children.
Understanding these conditions is crucial in seeking appropriate treatment and exploring lesser-known remedies for relief and management.
