Disclaimer: This is general health information only and is not a substitute for advice from your GP or healthcare professional.
1. What is IBD?
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is a term for chronic inflammation of the digestive tract, mainly including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. It causes ongoing gastrointestinal symptoms and may affect quality of life.
2. What causes IBD?
The exact cause is unknown, but it involves an abnormal immune response, genetic predisposition, and environmental factors. Triggers can include infections, stress, and certain medications.
3. What are the symptoms of IBD?
Symptoms vary depending on the type and severity, but often include abdominal pain, diarrhoea (sometimes bloody), urgency, weight loss, fatigue, and reduced appetite. Extra-intestinal symptoms may affect joints, skin, or eyes.
4. How is IBD diagnosed?
Diagnosis involves a combination of medical history, blood tests, stool tests, colonoscopy with biopsy, and imaging to assess inflammation and rule out other conditions.
5. Is IBD serious?
IBD can be serious if uncontrolled, leading to complications such as bowel obstruction, fistulas, severe bleeding, or increased risk of colon cancer. Early and ongoing management is important.
6. How is IBD treated?
Treatment aims to reduce inflammation, control symptoms, and maintain remission. This may include medications such as anti-inflammatory drugs, immunosuppressants, biologics, and sometimes surgery for complications or severe disease.
7. Can diet help in IBD?
Diet does not cure IBD, but nutritional management can help reduce symptoms. Some people benefit from low-residue diets during flares, avoiding trigger foods, and maintaining adequate hydration and nutrient intake.
8. Can IBD go into remission?
Yes. With appropriate treatment, many people achieve long periods of remission, where symptoms are minimal or absent. Regular monitoring helps maintain remission and prevent flares.
9. Who is at higher risk of IBD?
IBD is more common in younger adults, people with a family history of IBD, and those living in urban or industrialized areas. Both men and women can be affected.
10. When should I see a doctor?
See a doctor if you have persistent diarrhoea, abdominal pain, blood in stool, weight loss, or symptoms affecting daily life, or if you have known IBD and experience a flare or new complications.
