IMFLAMMATORY BOWEL DISEASE
OVERVIEW
Also known as IBD, Inflammatory Bowel Disease is a group of inflammatory conditions of the colon and small intestine.
Symptoms
Depending on the severity of inflammation and where it occurs, signs and symptoms of Inflammatory Bowel Disease vary and include:
- Diarrhea
- Fever and fatigue
- Blood in your stool
- Unintended weight loss
- Reduced appetite
- Abdominal pain and cramping
Causes
Though the exact cause of Inflammatory Bowel Disease remains unknown, age, race/ ethnicity, family history, cigarette smoking, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications are known to add to the risks.
Treatment
In most cases, the treatment includes either drug therapy or surgery. Doctors may prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs, immune system suppressors, antibiotics, pain relievers, and calcium, vitamin D and iron supplements to treat the condition.
