Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)

IBD includes a spectrum of chronic inflammatory diseases of the intestines of unknown cause. IBD involves two main conditions: ulcerative colitis, which affects the inner lining of the large intestine or colon alone, and Crohn’s disease, which is a more complex syndrome that may affect any part of the gut, causing full, thick inflammation of the intestinal wall. IBD is very common. One in 200 people, or 1.6 million Americans, are currently living with IBD. It may affect people of any age, but usually starts between ages 15 and 30.

There is a genetic predisposition, with up to 25 percent of people having a close relative with IBD. However, environmental factors seem to play a role, such as smoking, the use of non-steroidal, anti-inflammatory drugs or antibiotics and infections.

Symptoms

While the classic symptom of ulcerative colitis is bloody diarrhea, it does share some symptoms with other conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Crohn’s skin sores, anal fistula, liver disease, high inflammation and arthritis. Your doctor will work with you to hone in on the symptoms and accurately diagnose a potential condition.

Detection and Diagnosis

Blood tests
Colonoscopy
Computed tomography (CT) scan
Barium X-ray

Treatment Options

Treatment generally varies according to the type of IBD (Crohn’s vs. ulcerative colitis), the severity and the presence (or not) of complications. In many cases, surgical therapy is required, especially when there are severe complications such as narrowing of the intestines from scar tissue or the development of fistulas, abscesses or intestinal perforation.

Newer, more effective treatments for IBD have been developed and are now available at NCH. There are also many different medications available. In the last two decades, there has been a major breakthrough with the development of biologic drugs that have had a positive impact as well. Ask your physician about these options.