Inflammatory bowel disease, also called IBD, encompasses a few different digestive system diseases that stem from chronic inflammation throughout the digestive tract.
The often painful and debilitating effects of IBD can inflame the mouth, esophagus, stomach, and intestines, disrupting the process within the digestive tract, depending on the type of
inflammatory bowel disease, according to Healthline.
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IBD could increase the risk for colon cancer, and complications from the
disease can become life-threatening, LiveScience reports. Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis are the most common forms of IBD.
Symptoms can occur anywhere along the digestive tract with Crohn’s. Ulcerative colitis usually attacks the large intestine or colon, according to LiveScience, which points out that IBD differs from irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, which mainly causes inflammation in the intestines.
Indications of Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis include abdominal pain and cramping, diarrhea, fever and fatigue, blood in the stool, weight loss, and reduced appetite,
according to the Mayo Clinic. Symptoms can be mild to severe with these digestive system diseases, going from periods of remission to a return to illness.
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Crohn’s disease patients may also suffer from canker sores in the mouth or ulcers near the genital and anal areas, Healthline notes. Eye pain, skin rashes, and joint pain may accompany IBD in some people, according to Live Science.
Inflammatory bowel disease can be stressful to live with and even bring on depression or anxiety. LiveScience explains that IBD can trigger other conditions, including anemia from the loss of blood through the intestines, arthritis, gallstones, and kidney stones.
Symptoms can be alleviated through a diet that avoids greasy foods, creamy sauces, processed meats, and spicy and high-fiber foods, says LiveScience. Reducing stress and getting enough sleep also can help relieve symptoms. Medications that include antibiotics or corticosteroids may be prescribed. Some IBD patients may require surgery for correction or removal of the intestines.
The Mayo Clinic advises people to see a doctor if they experience any of the symptoms or persistent changes in bowel habits caused by digestive system diseases.
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