Inflammatory Bowel Disease.
Inflammatory bowel disease is the term used to describe two conditions: Chrohn’s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC). These conditions are caused by chronic inflammation in parts of the gastrointestinal tract (GI) that includes the mouth, esophagus (that connects the throat and the stomach), stomach, small intestine, large intestine and anus. Crohn’s disease may affect any part of the GI tract but more commonly affects the small intestine. Ulcerative colitis (UC) affects the large intestine and the rectum (a small chamber at the end of the large intestine). NURS 6051 wk 2 : Inflammatory Bowel Disease
About 1.6 million adults and 80,000 children have IBDs.
IBD-associated arthritis is used to describe types of inflammatory arthritis associated with IBD and include psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis and reactive arthritis.
IBDs should not be confused with irritable bowel syndrome or celiac disease although they have some symptoms in common. NURS 6051 wk 2 : Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Causes
While the exact cause of IBD is unknown, scientists believe that the chronic inflammation is a result of an immune system that doesn’t work properly. It becomes overactive when triggered by an environmental factor and mistakenly attacks the GI tract. People who develop IBDs are more likely to have a family member with one of the conditions.
This points to a genetic component to IBDs.
Symptoms
The most common symptoms of CD and UC are:
- Diarrhea.
- Abdominal pain/cramping.
- Bloody stools.
- Low appetite.
- Unintended weight loss.
- Fatigue.
Diagnosis
The doctor will review symptoms and medical history and perform a physical exam. Two procedures are performed: endoscopy (for Crohn’s disease) or colonoscopy (for ulcerative colitis). Imaging tests may also be performed, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT) or contrast radiography, Sometimes, blood tests or stool samples are done to rule out other conditions. NURS 6051 wk 2 : Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Treatment I n flammatory bowel diseases are treated with five types of medications:
- aminosalicylates – These anti-inflammatory drugs include sulfasalazine, balsalazide, mesalamine, and olsalazine. They are most effective for ulcerative colitis and are given orally or inserted in the rectum.
- corticosteroids – These anti-inflammatory drugs include prednisone, prednisolone, and budesonide, and are effective for short-term control of flare-ups. They are prescribed for the shortest time due to their side effects
- immunomodulators – These anti-inflammatory drugs include azathioprine, 6-mercaptopurine (6-MP), and methotrexate. They help to modify the disease process and tackle inflammation
- biologics – The anti-inflammatory drugs are the newest treatments for IBD. Adalimumab, certolizumab pegol, golimumab and infliximab target an inflammatory protein called tumor necrosis factor (TNF). Natalizumab and vedolizumab block certain white blood cells from affecting GI tissues
All medications come with side effects and the risks and benefits should be discussed with your doctor.
It’s common for people with IBD to get different vaccinations to help prevent infections. Surgical intervention is uncommon these days because of effective medications. But if the diseases are severe, then damaged parts of the GI tract are removed by surgery.
Self Care
What you eat can have a big impact on managing the symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease. An anti-inflammatory diet rich in vegetables, fruits, lean protein, especially fatty fish and fiber-rich foods can ease the stress on the GI tract and digestive system. Studies show that physical activity also has anti-inflammatory benefits. Managing a chronic disease can also be tough for your emotional health. So, develop a support network of family and friends. Also, look for ways to interact and learn from other people with IBDs through in-person support groups and online communities. NURS 6051 wk 2 : Inflammatory Bowel Disease