If you feel nauseated or have diarrhea, you know something is wrong with your stomach. However, problems that seem unrelated to your stomach may indicate that you have an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
IBDs are chronic conditions that lead to irritation and inflammation in your gastrointestinal tract. Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis are two common examples. In addition to more noticeable symptoms such as constipation, bloating or rectal bleeding, less obvious signs of IBD can include:
- Chronic fatigue
- Eye inflammation
- Fever and sweating
- Iron deficiency
- Joint pain
- Skin lesions
No one knows what exactly causes IBD. While genetics may play a role, the condition appears to be associated with age. According to the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation of America, most people who develop IBD get it before age 35, according to the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation of America. Smoking dramatically increases your risk for Crohn's disease.
Treatment for IBD conditions generally begins with anti-inflammatories or medications that suppress the immune response. Your doctor may also prescribe other medications or suggest a new diet for you to follow. If medication, diet and lifestyle changes aren't effective, your doctor may recommend surgery for ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease.
