Introduction

Inflammatory bowel disease encompasses Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. IBD is a chronic condition that affects the lining of your digestive system. Crohn’s disease can affect almost any part of your digestive system, while ulcerative colitis mainly affects your colon.

Signs and symptoms of Inflammatory Bowel Disease

• Persistent diarrhea
• Abdominal pain
• Weight loss
• Reduced appetite
• Fatigue
• Rectal bleeding/bloody stools

Causes of Inflammatory Bowel Disease

The exact cause of IBD is unknown, but it involves an abnormal immune response triggered by genetic and environmental factors in individuals with a predisposition.

Understanding Inflammatory Bowel Disease in Ayurveda

According to Ayurveda, the primary cause of IBD is inadequate digestive fire and toxin production (Ama). Ayurveda states that the main causes of both IBD types are poor appetite and poor digestion, as well as unhealthy, inappropriate, and irregular dietary habits.

Treatment and Management

Treatment is centred around to reduce inflammation, induce remission, and prevent relapses. Medications (aminosalicylates, corticosteroids, immunomodulators, biologic agents), nutritional support, lifestyle changes, and, in severe cases, surgery may be employed.

Palliative Care provided by SGP’s PSA can also be an integral part of managing IBD, particularly for individuals with advanced disease or persistent symptoms. Palliative Care provided by SGP’s PSA aims to enhance quality of life by addressing pain management, symptom control, emotional support, and psycho-social well-being.

FAQs about Inflammatory Bowel Disease

1. Can stress and anxiety cause inflammatory bowel disease?

   Stress and anxiety alone don’t cause inflammatory bowel disease. However, stress and anxiety can trigger the symptoms of IBD. Patients need to work with their healthcare provider to improve strategies to manage stress. If they are not managing stress effectively, it can significantly exacerbate the condition.

2. Can IBD start at any age?

   Individuals with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) may present with symptoms and causes at any age. Generally, IBD is diagnosed before the age of 30, however, some individuals may not present with the disease until the age of 50 or 60. People of any race can get IBD, although white people are more likely to get it.

3. How long does it take to cure inflammatory bowel disease?

   There is no known cure for inflammatory bowel disease. However, with proper diet, medications, and regular follow-ups, the inflammation can be reduced and the duration of remission can be prolonged.  

4. Can untreated IBD progress into cancer? 

   Patients with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis are at an increased risk of developing cancer, depending on the duration and the degree of inflammation. Regular colonoscopy may be recommended by a physician to assess the condition of the colon. Additionally, those with a family history of colorectal cancer are at a higher risk.

5. What can I eat with inflammatory bowel disease?

   In inflammatory bowel disease, there are a variety of foods that can be consumed. Tender-cooked vegetables, fruits, and starches such as cooked cereals, whole wheat noodles, and tortillas can be a good source of fibre. In between flares, a wide range of foods can be consumed, including fruits, vegetables, grain sources, lean proteins, and dairy products that are low in fat.