Overview

Inflammatory bowel disease is a group of long-term illnesses that cause the digestive tract to stay inflamed. Crohn's disease can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract, while ulcerative colitis mostly affects the colon and rectum. Inflammation damages the intestinal lining, making it harder for the body to digest food and absorb nutrients. IBD typically exhibits a relapsing pattern, characterized by intervals of symptom exacerbation and remission. It can happen to anyone, but it usually starts in the teenage years or early adulthood. To keep inflammation under control and avoid problems, it is important to identify it early and monitor it.

Symptoms
Some common signs are diarrhoea that won't go away, stomach pain, cramps, and the need to go to the bathroom right away. There may be blood or mucus in the stool. People often feel tired, lose weight, and have a reduced appetite. Fever and joint pain can happen during flare-ups. In children, IBD can cause poor absorption, which can lead to slow growth or not getting enough nutrients.

Causes
The exact causes of inflammatory bowel disease are still unknown. It is thought to be caused by an immune response that goes wrong and attacks the lining of the intestines. Changes in gut bacteria, genetic factors, and the environment may all play a role. IBD is not directly caused by smoking, diet, or stress, but these things can make symptoms worse or cause flare-ups.

Diagnosis
A diagnosis includes a medical history, a physical exam, and lab tests to look for inflammation or anaemia. Stool tests help rule out infections. Colonoscopy with biopsy is the most important test for detecting intestinal inflammation. CT or MRI scans can help determine how severe a disease is and what problems it might cause.

Treatment
The goal of treatment is to reduce inflammation, ease symptoms, and prevent the disease from returning. Some medicines that can be used include anti-inflammatory drugs, immunomodulating therapies, and biologic agents. Nutritional support and dietary changes are important. Surgery may be needed in severe cases or when there are problems like strictures. Regular follow-up helps monitor disease activity and prevent it from coming back.

People with inflammatory bowel disease will have it for the rest of their lives, with periods of remission and flare-ups. Many people live active lives with the right treatment and monitoring. Early treatment reduces the risk of problems and improves long-term outcomes.