Inflammatory Bowel Disease - Basic Facts You Need to Know

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) describes a group of disorders in which the intestines (small and large intestines or bowels) become red and swollen.

There are two types of IBD, including:

• Ulcerative colitis. long-lasting inflammation and sores (ulcers) in the innermost lining of your large intestine (colon) and rectum.
• Crohn’s disease. inflammation of the lining of your digestive tract.

Symptoms may vary according to the severity, including:

• Abdominal cramps and pain
• Diarrhea
• Severe urgency to have a bowel movement
• Fever and fatigue
• Weight loss
• Loss of appetite
• Blood in your stool

Treatment for IBD involves a combination of self-care and medical treatment.
Daily care

• dietary changes
• learn how to manage stress

Medication

• If you have mild ulcerative colitis, you may need minimal or no treatment and remain well for prolonged periods of time.
• Medicines used to treat ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease include:
  1. aminosalicylates or mesalazines – which can be given in a variety of ways
  2. immunosuppressants – such as steroids or azathioprine to reduce the activity of the immune system
  3. biologics – specific antibody-based treatments given by injection that target a specific part of the immune system
  4. antibiotics

It’s important to talk with your doctor about your dietary choice and medical care with minimal side effect.

Keywords: inflammatory bowel disease, inflammatory bowel disease symptoms