Inflammatory Bowel Disease, commonly known as IBD, refers to a group of chronic conditions that cause inflammation in the digestive tract. It mainly includes Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, both of which can have a significant impact on daily life if not diagnosed and managed early.

Many patients live with abdominal pain, diarrhoea, fatigue, and weight loss, often dismissing these symptoms as minor digestive issues. However, untreated IBD can lead to complications that affect not only the gut but also the overall health of an individual. With advancements in medicine, patients today can expect better outcomes and improved quality of life under the care of experienced gastroenterologists.

What is Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)?

IBD is a chronic inflammatory condition of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Unlike simple infections or indigestion, IBD is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system mistakenly attacks the intestines, causing persistent inflammation.

Types of IBD

• Ulcerative Colitis: Involves continuous inflammation and ulcers in the colon and rectum.
• Crohn’s Disease: Can affect any part of the GI tract from the mouth to the anus, often in patches.

Both conditions share similar symptoms but differ in their extent, depth of inflammation, and treatment approach.

Symptoms of IBD

The symptoms of IBD vary depending on whether it is ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease, and also on the severity.

Common signs include

• Persistent diarrhoea (sometimes with blood or mucus)
• Abdominal pain and cramping
• Unexplained weight loss
• Fatigue and weakness
• Reduced appetite
• Rectal bleeding

Some patients also experience symptoms beyond the gut, such as joint pain, skin rashes, and eye inflammation.

What Causes IBD?

The exact cause of IBD is not fully understood, but research points towards a combination of:

• Immune System Dysfunction: The body’s immune response mistakenly attacks healthy digestive tissue.
• Genetics: A family history of IBD increases the risk.
• Environmental Factors: Smoking, high-fat diets, and exposure to pollutants may trigger flare-ups.
• Gut Microbiome Imbalance: Disturbances in gut bacteria contribute to inflammation.

IBD is not caused by stress or food allergies alone, though stress and diet can worsen symptoms.

How is IBD Diagnosed?

Accurate diagnosis is crucial because symptoms often overlap with other conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or infections.

Diagnostic methods include

• Blood tests: To check for anaemia and inflammation.
• Stool tests: To rule out infections.
• Endoscopy/Colonoscopy: To visualise the digestive tract and take biopsies.
• Imaging tests: Such as CT scan, MRI, or capsule endoscopy for Crohn’s disease.

Early detection allows for timely management and prevents complications.

Treatment Options for IBD

There is currently no cure for IBD, but the condition can be managed effectively to achieve long-term remission and reduce flare-ups.

Medical Treatments

• Anti-inflammatory drugs: Aminosalicylates and corticosteroids to reduce inflammation.
• Immune system suppressors: Azathioprine, methotrexate, or biologics to control overactive immune response.
• Biologic therapies: Target specific proteins in the immune system (e.g., anti-TNF drugs).
• Antibiotics: In cases where the infection worsens, inflammation.

Surgical Options

In severe cases, surgery may be required to remove damaged portions of the intestine, especially in patients with Crohn’s disease or complications like strictures, fistulas, or bowel perforation.

Lifestyle and Dietary Management

Alongside medical treatment, lifestyle adjustments play a crucial role in reducing flare-ups and improving quality of life.

Diet tips for IBD patients

• Eat smaller, frequent meals instead of large meals.
• Stay hydrated, especially during diarrhoeal episodes.
• Avoid trigger foods like spicy meals, caffeine, alcohol, and high-fat foods.
• Include easily digestible foods such as rice, bananas, boiled potatoes, and yoghurt.

Lifestyle strategies

• Quit smoking as it worsens Crohn’s disease.
• Practice stress-reducing techniques like yoga, meditation, or light exercise.
• Maintain regular follow-ups with your gastroenterologist to monitor progress.

Complications of Untreated IBD

If left unmanaged, IBD can lead to serious health problems such as:

• Intestinal strictures (narrowing of the bowel)
• Fistulas (abnormal connections between bowel and other organs)
• Severe malnutrition
• Colon cancer risk (especially in long-standing ulcerative colitis)
• Growth delays in children

Regular medical care significantly reduces these risks and helps patients lead a fulfilling life.

Living with IBD: Hope and Support

While being diagnosed with IBD can feel overwhelming, patients today benefit from advanced therapies, nutritional counselling, and psychosocial support. With proper treatment, many patients achieve long-term remission and continue to live active, healthy lives.

It is important to seek early medical advice and build a strong doctor-patient partnership for personalised care.

Take the First Step Towards Relief

If you or a loved one is experiencing persistent digestive issues like abdominal pain, diarrhoea, or rectal bleeding, don’t ignore the signs. Early intervention can prevent complications and improve outcomes.

Consult Dr. Subhraneelay Das, an experienced specialist in managing Inflammatory Bowel Disease, for a thorough evaluation and customised treatment plan. Book an appointment today and take charge of your digestive health.