Inflammatory bowel disease, or IBD, can be a painful, life-altering condition. IBD most frequently describes two conditions that involve long-term inflammation and ulceration in your gastrointestinal (digestive) tract. They include:
-Crohn’s disease, in which your entire digestive tract may be affected. The areas of inflammation may occur in patches along the course of your digestive tract, and may spread into deep layers of the affected tissue.
-Ulcerative colitis, which is more common than Crohn’s. It involves inflammation of the inner lining (the most superficial layer) of your large intestine and rectum. Unlike Crohn’s, ulcerative colitis involves one continuous area of inflammation.
The symptoms of IBD vary, depending on the location and severity of the inflammation. Both Crohn’s and ulcerative colitis are characterized by periods of symptom flare-ups and periods of remission. The most common symptoms of IBD include:
- Diarrhea
- Pain and intestinal cramping
- Diminished appetite
- Weight loss
- Low energy
- Fever
Inflammatory bowel disease is not the same as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), acid reflux, and it is not caused by your diet. Scientists are unsure exactly what causes IBD, but they theorize that it may be related to autoimmunity. In addition, genetics may play a role, as IBD tends to run in families.
At BodaHealth, we work with patients to decrease the severity of their symptoms and promote and maintain periods of remission. We have several practitioners who provide healing treatments and strategies to achieve those goals. Treatments that may be used for patients with IBD include acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, dietary therapy, naturopathic medicine, and lifestyle modifications. We work with you to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, boost your immune system, support your digestion, reduce stress, and promote healing.
At BodaHealth, we believe that inflammatory bowel disease doesn’t have to take over your life. If you or someone you love is suffering from IBD, contact us today for more information.
