Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) refers to a group of chronic conditions that lead to inflammation in the digestive tract. The two most common forms of IBD are Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. These conditions can cause symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, and diarrhea. Read on to learn more about IBD, including its types, causes, and how it is diagnosed.
What Is Inflammatory Bowel Disease?
Inflammatory bowel disease is a long-lasting condition that causes inflammation and discomfort in the intestines. It typically develops in people between the ages of 15 and 30. Although IBD is a lifelong condition, proper treatment can help manage its symptoms and improve quality of life.
Types of Inflammatory Bowel Disease
The two primary types of IBD are:
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Ulcerative Colitis: This condition leads to inflammation and sores (ulcers) in the lining of the large intestine or colon. The severity and location of the inflammation determine the specific type of ulcerative colitis a person may have.
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Crohn’s Disease: Unlike ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease can affect any part of the digestive tract, from the mouth to the anus. However, it most commonly impacts the small intestine or the beginning of the large intestine. Research shows that Crohn’s disease often develops between the ages of 20 and 29.
IBD vs. IBS: What’s the Difference?
It’s important to distinguish between Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) and Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS):
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IBD is a chronic inflammatory condition that causes actual damage to the digestive tract.
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IBS, sometimes called a nervous stomach, is a functional gastrointestinal disorder. It affects bowel movement and digestion but does not cause inflammation or physical damage to the intestines.
IBS doesn’t increase the risk of colon cancer, and it rarely requires hospitalization. Unlike IBD, IBS cannot be detected through imaging scans.
What Causes Inflammatory Bowel Disease?
The exact cause of IBD is still unknown, but several contributing factors may increase a person’s risk:
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Genetics: Research shows that individuals with a family history of IBD are more likely to develop the condition.
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Immune System Dysfunction: Normally, the immune system protects the body from harmful bacteria and viruses. However, in some cases, an abnormal immune response may cause the digestive tract to remain inflamed for extended periods, especially during an autoimmune reaction.
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Environmental Factors: A 2019 study suggested that people living in urban or industrial areas, where consumption of processed foods is higher and physical activity is lower, may face a higher risk of developing IBD.
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Age and Smoking: While IBD can develop at any age, it most commonly appears between 15 and 30 years old. Smoking, particularly, is a well-known risk factor for Crohn’s disease and can worsen its symptoms.
How Is IBD Diagnosed?
To diagnose IBD, a healthcare provider will start with a physical examination and ask about your medical and family history. Several diagnostic tests may be required, such as blood tests, stool tests, and imaging scans, to confirm inflammation and rule out other conditions.
For convenient and affordable testing, Thyrocare offers a variety of diagnostic packages with the added benefit of free home sample collection.
