Inflammatory Bowel Disease

What is inflammatory bowel disease?

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) refers to a group of chronic conditions that cause ongoing inflammation of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. The two main types are:

Crohn’s disease

This can affect any part of the digestive tract and often involves deeper layers of the bowel wall.

Ulcerative colitis

This condition primarily affects the colon (large intestine) and rectum, involving only the inner lining of the bowel.

IBD is different from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which causes similar digestive symptoms but doesn’t involve inflammation or intestinal damage.

What causes inflammatory bowel disease?

IBD can result from a combination of genetic, immune, environmental, and microbial factors.

Immune system dysfunction

Normally, the immune system protects the body from harmful bacteria. In IBD, the immune system mistakenly attacks the intestinal lining, causing chronic inflammation.

Genetic predisposition

Certain genetic mutations increase susceptibility, so IBD tends to run in families.

Environmental factors

Diet, smoking, pollution, stress, and use of certain medications (like NSAIDs) may trigger or worsen inflammation. There are higher rates of IBD in urban and industrialized regions.

Gut microbiome imbalance

An imbalance in intestinal bacteria may disrupt immune function and promote inflammation.

IBD is not caused by diet or stress alone, but these factors can influence the severity of symptoms and disease flare-ups.

What are the symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease?

Symptoms vary based on the type of IBD and what part of your digestive tract is affected. Common signs include:

• Abdominal pain and cramping
• Persistent diarrhea (often bloody in ulcerative colitis)
• Urgent or frequent bowel movements
• Unintended weight loss
• Fatigue and weakness
• Loss of appetite
• Fever (especially during flare-ups)
• Anemia from intestinal bleeding

If IBD goes untreated, Crohn’s disease can cause complications, such as fistulas, abscesses, or intestinal narrowing (strictures). Ulcerative colitis may lead to toxic megacolon or increase your long-term risk of colon cancer.

How does gastroenterology treat inflammatory bowel disease?

Dr. Lau begins with a thorough evaluation and then creates a personalized care plan designed to reduce inflammation, relieve your symptoms, prevent complications, and help you achieve and maintain remission. Your care plan may include:

• Medication management
• Nutritional and lifestyle therapy
• Endoscopic and imaging evaluation
• Surgical treatment

IBD is a lifelong condition, but effective care can help you control symptoms, achieve remission, and live an active, fulfilling life. Book your next visit by calling the office or requesting an appointment online today.