Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a painful condition characterized by digestive distress. While so much about this illness remains a mystery, the one thing that’s for certain is that IBS can greatly impact quality of life. This is one of the most dangerous digestive disorders due to the increased risk for infections that sufferers face. That’s why we take this condition so seriously here at Functional and Metabolic Medicine of Colorado in Littleton.

Signs and Symptoms of Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Both ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease fall under the IBD umbrella. As a result, both the symptoms and potential for complications are varied. Some of the common symptoms of people suffering from both conditions include:

  • Diarrhea.
  • Fatigue.
  • Abdominal pain and cramping.
  • Blood in stool/rectal bleeding.
  • Reduced appetite.
  • Unintended weight loss.

The degree of inflammation being experienced can impact the severity of your symptoms. Many people suffering from this condition actually have periods of recovery. However, periods of remission tend to be followed by periods of active illness like clockwork.

When to See a Doctor About Your Concerns

If you’re dealing with any of the symptoms that fall under the IBD umbrella, it’s so important to see a doctor as soon as possible. Consider seeking emergency care if you’ve noticed bleeding. Bringing down inflammation is often the first order of business when developing a treatment plan for relief. Inflammation can be reduced using dietary changes, lifestyle changes and anti-inflammatory drugs.

Causes of IBD

While we know that inflammation is the root cause of the symptoms of this condition, it’s not fully clear what triggers the inflammation in the first place. The general theory has been that diet and lifestyle play roles in triggering inflammatory bowel disease. However, it’s possible that this condition is caused by the immune system accidentally attacking cells in the digestive tract while fighting off viruses or bacteria. There’s also potentially a hereditary component.

Risk Factors for Developing Inflammatory Bowel Disease

This condition impacts people from all walks of life. Most people are diagnosed before the age of 30. This makes IBD something of a “young person’s” disease. A person is more likely to be diagnosed with inflammatory bowel disease if a family member has the disease. Lastly, we do know that cigarette smoking specifically elevates the risk for developing Crohn’s disease. Some medications can also increase your risks for developing this condition.

Complications

While inflammatory bowel syndrome is typically not fatal, it is a condition that comes with a long list of potential complications. The complications associated with untreated Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis include an increased risk for colon cancer, joint inflammation, blood clots, skin lesions, uveitis (eye inflammation), liver damage and arthritis. Many people also develop anemia and vitamin b-12 deficiencies as a result of reduced nutrient absorption. In addition to treating the root cause of this disease, it may also be wise to consider supplementation or IV drips to restore vitamin levels to heal your body.

Untreated Crohn’s disease creates specific risks for bowel obstructions, malnutrition, fistulas, abscesses and anal fissures. Ulcerative colitis creates specific risks for rapid swelling of the colon known as toxic megacolon. It also increases risks for a perforated colon, excessive diarrhea and severe dehydration. The complications stemming from the conditions associated with inflammatory bowel disease’s can cause severe infection, illness and death if they are not addressed.

See a Colorado Inflammatory Bowel Disease Doctor

Being in distress all the time isn’t normal. Unfortunately, many people aren’t taken as seriously as they should be when they share symptoms with their doctors. It’s important to be screened for both Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Dr. Susan Sipay at Functional and Metabolic Medicine of Colorado can help you to look at your condition from a whole-body perspective to try to reduce inflammation, restore balance and prevent the serious complications associated with digestive disorders. Call (720) 791-2911 or email sipaymd@functionalmetabolicmedicine.com to book an appointment at our functional medicine office in Littleton, Colorado.