It's All About: Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Inflammatory Bowel disease (IBD) is characterized by chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract. It consists of two different conditions which include Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Crohn's disease usually affects a specific portion of the small intestine, though it can affect any part of the GI tract with patchy areas of damage. The inflammation can spread through multiple layers of the GI wall. Ulcerative colitis occurs solely in the large intestine (colon) and rectum with continuous areas of damage. The inflammation is only present in the innermost lining of the colon wall. IBD affects almost 3 million Americans and is more prevalent amongst females. Most people are usually diagnosed before they reach 30 years old.

Some of the common symptoms that people can experience are persistent diarrhea, fatigue, abdominal pain and cramping, bloody stools, reduced appetite, and weight loss. There are multiple possible etiologies for IBD, but the exact cause is unknown. One of the possible causes include immune malfunction that occurs when the immune system is trying to fight off a virus/bacterium which leads to an attack of the digestive tract cells. Certain gene mutations as well as family genetics have shown to play a role in IBD as well. The biggest preventable risk factor for Crohn's disease is cigarette smoking. Certain factors that can worsen IBD are NSAID medications, diet, and stress.

IBD can lead to many complications to the GI tract as well as the other systems. Some complications that both conditions can lead to are colon cancer, blood clots, dehydration, primary sclerosing cholangitis, and inflammation of the skin, eye, and joints. Crohn’s disease specifically can lead to bowel obstruction, fistulas around the anal and abdominal area, abscesses, and anal fissures. Ulcerative colitis can lead to toxic megacolon and colon perforation. Most of these conditions as well as IBD itself can be diagnosed through an endoscopy or a colonoscopy as well as radiographs or CT. It is also essential to collect blood and stool samples to properly treat the disease and its side effects.

Since IBD is more prevalent amongst women, it can affect them in unique ways as well. For example, women with IBD are more likely to experience more menstrual symptoms such as headaches and menstrual cramps. The classic IBD symptoms can also be much more severe before and during the period. Additionally, women with IBD may not be able to absorb iron as well which can increase the risk of developing iron deficiency anemia and risk of bleeding in the GI tract. During the flare-ups of the IBD symptoms, women may have a harder time getting pregnant. It may also increase the chances of delivering the baby prematurely or having a C-section. There are also certain medications used to treat IBD such as methotrexate that can cause birth defects and other health problems. Overall, it’s important to discuss any concerns and medical history with the physician when living with IBD.

References:

CDC. (2022, April 13). What is inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)? Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Retrieved September 30, 2022, from https://www.cdc.gov/ibd/what-is-IBD.htm

Mayo Clinic. (2022, September 3). Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Mayo Clinic. Retrieved September 30, 2022, from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/inflammatory-bowel-disease/symptoms-causes/syc-20353315

Office on Women's Health. (2022). Inflammatory bowel disease. Inflammatory bowel disease | Office on Women's Health. Retrieved September 30, 2022, from https://www.womenshealth.gov/a-z-topics/inflammatory-bowel-disease