IBD refers to disorders where the intestines become red and swollen due to an immune reaction against the body's own intestinal tissue. It includes Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.
Types of IBD:
- Ulcerative Colitis: Inflammation in the colon and rectum, causing bleeding, infections, and scarring.
- Crohn’s Disease: Inflammation along the digestive tract, leading to abdominal pain, severe diarrhea, and malnutrition.
Symptoms:
- Diarrhea, rectal bleeding, abdominal cramps, urgency to move bowels.
- Fever, loss of appetite, weight loss, fatigue, night sweats.
Diagnosis:
- Blood test: Detects antibodies related to IBD.
- Colonoscopy: Examines the entire colon with a flexible tube.
- X-Ray, Flexible sigmoidoscopy, Barium enema: Imaging tests to visualize the colon.
- CT scan, MRI: Detect complications or inflammation.
- Stool sample: Checks for white blood cells indicating inflammation.
- Capsule endoscopy, Double-balloon endoscopy: Advanced procedures for diagnosis.
Causes:
- Exact cause unknown, possibly due to immune system malfunction.
- Triggers include genetic factors, environment, and emotional stress.
Treatment:
- Medications: Anti-inflammatory drugs like steroids, immunosuppressants.
- Surgery: Removal of damaged intestine parts for severe cases.
- Surgeries may include ileostomy, bowel resection, or colostomy/ileostomy.
Cost of Treatment:
- The cost varies depending on the severity of the condition, treatment plan, and location of the medical facility.
- Generally, medication costs for IBD treatment can range from moderate to high.