Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis have comparable symptoms. However, there is no one test that can detect either illness. Your healthcare practitioner will inquire about your symptoms to make a diagnosis. Additionally, the best GI doctors may order a complete blood count (CBC) and stool test to search for signs of intestinal inflammation. They may also subject you to one or more of the following diagnostic tests:
- Colonoscopy is a procedure used to check the big and small intestines.
- Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) examines the digestive system for swelling and ulcers.
- Flexible sigmoidoscopy is used to see within the rectum and anus.
- A CT or MRI scan is used to look for symptoms of inflammation or an abscess.
- Upper endoscopy is a technique that examines the digestive tract from the mouth to the beginning of the small intestine.
- Capsule endoscopy involves swallowing miniature camera equipment. The camera takes pictures as it moves via the digestive tract.
Treatment alternatives for IBD
Although there is no cure for IBD, some medications, surgeries, and lifestyle modifications can help you feel better and avoid problems. A gastroenterologist will likely start you on medicines and advise you on lifestyle and dietary changes to alleviate your symptoms. Your procedure will be determined by the severity of your ailment and other considerations. However, most people with IBD may live whole, active lives once they understand how to prevent symptoms and consequences.
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) vs. irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
IBD is a disease, whereas IBS is a syndrome or group of symptoms. There are several reasons and treatments. IBS is categorized as a functional gastrointestinal condition. It changes gut function, causing contractions to occur more (or less) often than usual. IBS is sometimes known as spastic colon disease or an uneasy stomach. Since IBS does not cause inflammation or injury to the intestines like IBD, imaging scans cannot identify it, and it does not raise the risk of colon cancer. Moreover, IBS patients rarely need hospitalization or surgery.
Outlook for those with IBD
Although IBD is a chronic disorder, it should not affect your life expectancy. With the right therapy, you can avoid flares and enjoy long periods of remission. Managing a chronic ailment like IBD may be difficult. It is not uncommon for persons with IBD to experience anxiety or depression. However, seeing a mental health counselor can be beneficial.
IBD is a complicated disease that can be difficult to identify. If you have any IBD symptoms, you should consult your doctor to discover more about what is causing your suffering. Several procedures, including blood testing, endoscopies, and imaging scans, can assist your physician in deciding whether you have IBD and what kind you have. You and your specialist can collaborate to select the best treatment option for your disease.
Most individuals with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) have active lifestyles. Also, Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis symptoms can be debilitating. Some people have remission (absence of symptoms) after using medicines. To treat severe symptom flare-ups, some patients require surgery. Your doctor may recommend dietary and lifestyle adjustments to treat IBD. Call Bharat Pothuri, MD, FACG, or book your appointment online to learn more about different IBD procedures.