Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)

Welcome to our functional medicine practice. We are dedicated to providing comprehensive and personalized care to patients suffering from Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). In this service page, we will explain what IBD is, the symptoms, available treatment options, impacts on patients, and the potential costs associated with the disease.

What is Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is a chronic disorder that causes inflammation in the digestive tract. There are two main types of IBD: Ulcerative Colitis (UC) and Crohn’s Disease (CD). While UC only affects the colon and rectum, CD can occur anywhere along the digestive tract, from the mouth to the anus.

Symptoms of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)

The symptoms of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) can vary widely depending on the type and location of the disease in the digestive tract. The most common symptoms include:

• Abdominal pain and cramping: Pain can range from mild to severe and often occurs after eating.
• Diarrhea: This can be frequent and may contain blood or mucus.
• Constipation: Patients can have infrequent bowel movements, difficulty passing stools, or a feeling of incomplete emptying of the bowels.
• Fatigue: Patients often experience fatigue due to the chronic inflammation and nutrient deficiencies.
• Bloating and gas: Many people with IBD experience bloating, which is a feeling of fullness or swelling in the abdomen. This is often accompanied by excess gas.
• Loss of appetite: Patients may experience a loss of appetite and weight loss.
• Rectal bleeding: This can occur in severe cases of inflammation.
• Nausea and vomiting: This can occur due to the inflammation or side effects of medication.
• Joint pain: Some patients may experience joint pain and inflammation, which can be a symptom of the disease.

The following are categories and descriptions of additional symptoms associated with Inflammatory Bowel Disease:

Gastrointestinal secretion symptoms

Increased or decreased secretion of mucus, which can lead to abdominal discomfort, can be a symptom of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD).

Extraintestinal symptoms

People with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) may also experience symptoms outside of the gastrointestinal tract, such as joint pain, skin rashes, and eye inflammation.

Impacts of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) can have a significant impact on people’s lives, as it can cause chronic pain, discomfort, and diarrhea, as well as disrupt daily activities and routines. People with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) may also experience other symptoms such as abdominal cramping, rectal bleeding, weight loss, and fatigue. These symptoms can lead to decreased quality of life, work disruptions, and social isolation. Many people with IBD find that the condition has a significant impact on their emotional and mental well-being, leading to depression and anxiety.