Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)

What is Inflammatory Bowel Disease?

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is a group of chronic conditions that cause inflammation of the digestive tract. It includes two main types:

• Crohn’s Disease – can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract, from the mouth to the anus, most commonly the end of the small intestine and the beginning of the colon.
• Ulcerative Colitis – affects only the colon (large intestine) and rectum, causing inflammation and ulcers in the inner lining.

IBD is not the same as Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), which is a functional disorder without visible inflammation or tissue damage.

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause of IBD is unknown, but it is believed to involve an abnormal immune response, where the body attacks its own intestinal lining. Contributing factors may include:

• Genetics – family history of IBD increases risk
• Immune system dysfunction
• Environmental triggers (e.g., diet, stress, infections)
• Smoking – especially worsens Crohn’s disease
• Gut microbiome imbalance

IBD often starts in people between the ages of 15 and 35, though it can occur at any age.

Symptoms of IBD

Symptoms vary depending on the type and severity of the disease, but common signs include:

• Abdominal pain or cramping
• Chronic diarrhea (sometimes with blood or mucus)
• Fatigue and weakness
• Weight loss
• Loss of appetite
• Fever
• Anemia
• Urgency to have bowel movements
• Rectal bleeding (more common in ulcerative colitis)
   

IBD symptoms may come and go in flare-ups followed by periods of remission.

Complications

Without proper treatment, IBD can lead to serious complications, such as:

• Bowel obstruction (especially in Crohn’s disease)
• Fistulas and abscesses
• Malnutrition
• Increased risk of colon cancer
• Joint pain, skin rashes, or eye inflammation (extraintestinal manifestations)
• Growth delays in children
• Perforation or toxic megacolon (in severe ulcerative colitis)

Diagnosis

IBD is diagnosed through a combination of:

• Medical history and physical exam
• Blood tests – to check for anemia, infection, or inflammation markers
• Stool tests – to rule out infections and detect inflammation
• Colonoscopy – allows direct visualization and biopsy of the colon and terminal ileum
• Endoscopy or capsule endoscopy – for Crohn’s disease affecting the upper GI tract or small intestine
• Imaging tests – CT scan, MRI, or ultrasound to assess inflammation or complications

Treatment Options

IBD treatment focuses on reducing inflammation, relieving symptoms, and preventing complications.

Medications

• Aminosalicylates (5-ASA) – reduce inflammation in the bowel
• Corticosteroids – used for short-term flare control
• Immunomodulators – suppress the immune system to prevent inflammation
• Biologic therapies – target specific components of the immune system (e.g., anti-TNF, anti-IL agents)
• JAK inhibitors – newer class of drugs for moderate to severe IBD
• Antibiotics – in cases of infection or abscess
   

Surgery

• May be required if medication doesn’t work or complications arise
• In ulcerative colitis, removing the colon (colectomy) can be curative
• In Crohn’s disease, surgery may remove narrowed or damaged segments, but the disease can recur

Nutritional Support:

• Diet adjustments may help manage symptoms
• Nutritional supplements if there is malabsorption
• Exclusive enteral nutrition (EEN) in children or during flares

Living with IBD

Managing IBD is a lifelong process. Tips for living well with IBD include:

• Regular follow-ups with a gastroenterologist
• Taking medications as prescribed
• Avoiding trigger foods
• Managing stress through exercise, meditation, or therapy
• Staying hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet
• Getting vaccinated and monitoring bone health (especially if on steroids)

Why Choose Aster Hospitals for IBD Care?

Aster Hospitals provide advanced and personalized care for Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) through a skilled team of gastroenterologists and colorectal surgeons. Our state-of-the-art endoscopy, imaging, and pathology services ensure accurate diagnosis and effective monitoring. We offer access to the latest biologic therapies and advanced treatment options tailored to each patient’s condition. Comprehensive care includes nutritional counseling, psychological support, and long-term management strategies focused on preventing flare-ups and improving quality of life.