Overview

There are two main types of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis (UC). 

Crohn’s disease can affect any part of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract from the mouth to the anus, but most commonly affects the small intestine. 

Crohn’s disease is a chronic, inflammatory bowel disease that can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract.

There is no one cause of Crohn’s disease and it is not contagious. While there is no cure for Crohn’s disease, there are treatments available that can help manage the symptoms and improve the quality of life.

In this article we’ll be discussing IBD, the symptoms thereof and how Crohn’s disease and IBD can be diagnosed and treated.

Irritable Bowel Disease

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a condition that results in chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract.

The two most common types of IBD are ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. Symptoms of IBD can vary depending on the severity of the inflammation.

IBD is a lifelong condition that can be difficult to manage. There is no cure for IBD, but there are treatments available to help control the symptoms.

IBD Symptoms

The most common symptoms of IBD are abdominal pain and cramping, diarrhea, weight loss, and fatigue.

However, symptoms can vary from person to person and may even change over time.

More symptoms of IBD may include:

• Gas and bloating
• Loss of appetite
• Mucus or bloody stool
• Upset stomach

IBD can be difficult to diagnose because its symptoms are similar to other GI conditions.

If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, it’s important to see a GI doctor for an evaluation.

 

IBD Causes

There are many possible causes of IBD, but the exact cause is unknown. It is thought to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

IBD may be caused by an abnormal immune response to a virus or bacterium in the GI tract. It is also thought that a genetic predisposition may make some people more susceptible to developing IBD. 

 

How is IBD Diagnosed?

IBD can be a very debilitating and painful condition, and it can also lead to other serious health complications.

There is no one definitive test for IBD, and diagnosis can often be tricky.

A combination of medical history, physical examination, blood tests, stool tests, imaging tests, and endoscopy is usually necessary to make a diagnosis. In some cases, a diagnosis of IBD can be made based on the symptoms alone.

However, in many cases, more testing is needed to confirm the diagnosis.

 

What Are the Treatments for IBD?

There is no cure for IBD, but there are treatments available to help manage the symptoms and keep the disease in remission.

The main treatments for IBD are medication, surgery, and diet.
Applying these treatments can help you manage the symptoms and live a normal life.

 

How Can IBD Be Prevented?

There are a few things that can be done to help prevent IBD, or at least to reduce the risk of developing the condition. First, it’s important to eat a healthy diet.

This means eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and avoiding processed foods, red meat, and dairy. 

It’s also important to get regular exercise, get enough sleep, and manage stress.

Crohn’s Disease

Crohn’s disease is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract from the mouth to the anus.

It is a type of IBD, or inflammatory bowel disease. The most common symptom of Crohn’s disease is abdominal pain, usually in the lower right abdomen.

Other common symptoms include diarrhea, weight loss, and fatigue.

 

Crohn’s Disease Symptoms

Crohn’s disease is a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). It most often affects the small intestine and can also affect the large intestine.

The symptoms of Crohn’s disease can vary and range from mild to severe.

These symptoms may include:

• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhea
• Weight loss
• Fatigue

In some cases, Crohn’s disease can also lead to other problems, such as:

• Anemia – Anemia is a condition in which there are not enough healthy red blood cells to carry adequate oxygen to the tissues of the body. Anemia can be caused by a variety of different factors and can have a number of different effects on both the body and the mind. Anemia is a treatable condition, and with proper diagnosis and treatment, most people with anemia can lead healthy, normal lives.

   

• Osteoporosis – Osteoporosis is a condition where the bones become porous and fragile, making them susceptible to fractures. It is most common in women after menopause, when estrogen levels drop, and bone loss accelerates. Osteoporosis can lead to a decrease in quality of life and independence, so it is important to take steps to prevent it.

• Skin disorders – There is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of how to deal with skin disorders caused by Crohn’s disease. The best approach depends on the individual’s type of Crohn’s disease, the severity of their symptoms, and their overall health. However, some general tips include staying hydrated, avoiding trigger foods, managing stress levels, and keeping the skin clean and moisturized.
  

Crohn’s Disease Causes

The cause for Crohn’s disease is unknown, but it is thought to be due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

Crohn’s disease can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract, from the mouth to the anus, but it most commonly affects the small intestine.

Crohn’s disease is a relapsing and remitting condition, which means that it comes and goes.

There is no cure for Crohn’s disease, but there are treatments that can help to control the symptoms.

How is Crohn’s Disease Diagnosed?

There is no one test that can diagnose Crohn’s disease, so the doctor will likely order a combination of tests, including a blood test, stool sample, and imaging tests such as colonoscopies.

A diagnosis of Crohn’s disease is made when other causes of the symptoms, such as an infection, are ruled out.

 

What Are the Treatments for Crohn’s Disease?

There is no one-size-fits-all treatment for Crohn’s disease, as the condition varies from person to person.

Some people may only need medication to manage their symptoms, while others may require surgery to remove part of the affected intestine.

The good news is that there are many options available, and with working with a team of specialists, you can develop a treatment plan that’s right for you.

 

How Can Crohn’s Disease Be Prevented?

Some lifestyle changes that may help prevent Crohn’s disease include eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and reducing stress.

If you think you may be at risk for Crohn’s disease, it’s important to talk to your doctor so they can properly diagnose and treat you.

 

Conclusion

IBD and Crohn’s disease are both debilitating gastrointestinal disorders that can drastically reduce the quality of life for sufferers.

While there are some similarities between the two disorders, there are also significant differences. IBD is a general term used to describe a number of different disorders, while Crohn’s disease is a specific diagnosis.

IBD can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract, while Crohn’s disease most commonly affects the small intestine.

IBD is usually treated with medication, while Crohn’s disease may require surgery in addition to medication.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible.

Dr. Schneider is located at the Millpark Hospital, Parktown, Johannesburg.

Services offered include consultation, and endoscopy procedures, including gastroscopy, colonoscopy and video capsule endoscopy.

For more information on the diagnosis and treatment of abdominal pain in Johannesburg, contact Dr. Schneider or book your consultation today.

 

IBD Explained

In this article we will touch base on everything IBD related and when you should see a doctor.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease, or IBD, is a group of chronic disorders that cause inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract. The two most common types of IBD are ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease.

Symptoms of IBD can include abdominal pain, diarrhea, weight loss, and fatigue. IBD is often diagnosed by a combination of blood tests, stool tests, imaging tests, and endoscopy.

Treatment for IBD typically involves medications, such as anti-inflammatory drugs, immunosuppressants, and antibiotics. Surgery may also be necessary in some cases.

 

Symptoms

The symptoms of IBD can vary depending on the individual, but there are some common symptoms that are associated with the condition.

These include:

• Abdominal pain
• Cramping
• Diarrhea
• Blood in the stool
• Weight loss
• Fatigue

IBD can also lead to other complications, such as joint pain, skin problems, and eye issues.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor so that they can properly diagnose and treat you.

 

Causes

There are many different types of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), each with their own set of potential causes.

The two most common types of IBD are ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease.

The most common type of IBD, Crohn’s disease, is thought to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

Researchers believe that Crohn’s disease is caused by a malfunction in the body’s immune system.

Normally, the immune system protects the body from infection by attacking and destroying foreign substances, like bacteria and viruses.

In people with Crohn’s disease, the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells in the digestive tract.

This causes inflammation, which can lead to the symptoms of Crohn’s disease.

Diagnosis

Your doctor will likely start with a physical exam and review of your medical history. They may also order blood tests and imaging tests like an x-ray or CT scan.

What happens during an IBD diagnosis?

Your doctor will start by reviewing your medical history, then performing a physical exam.

In addition to the standard physical exam elements, your doctor will pay special attention to your abdomen for inflammatory signs such as tenderness, pain with movement or overactivity in your intestines as reflected by loud gurgling sounds.

A physical exam is a series of lab tests and possibly a colonoscopy or endoscopy (to access your upper and lower gastrointestinal tracts)

Depending on your symptoms and other medical conditions you may have, one or more lab tests ordered. Blood tests will screen for an elevated white blood cell count (although this is not always seen in IBD, especially in patients with Crohn’s disease), and markers associated with inflammation such as C-reactive protein (CRP).

As mentioned, if your doctor suspects either ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease, a sample of your intestinal lining may be taken through a colonoscopy or endoscopy.

 

Treatment

There are many different treatments for IBD, the most common treatments are:

• Medications
• Surgery
• Lifestyle changes

Medications: The main types of medications used to treat IBD are anti-inflammatories, immunosuppressants, and biologics.

Anti-inflammatories help to reduce inflammation in the digestive tract. Immunosuppressants help to decrease the immune response, which can help to reduce inflammation. Biologics are a newer type of medication that specifically target proteins involved in the inflammation process.

Surgery: There are a variety of surgical options for treating inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The type of surgery recommended for a particular patient depends on the patient’s individual situation, including the severity of the disease, the patient’s age and overall health, and the patient’s preferences. The goal of surgery is to remove the diseased portion of the bowel and to relieve the symptoms of IBD. Surgery is not a cure for IBD, but it can provide significant symptom relief.

Lifestyle Changes:  If you suffer from inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), making lifestyle changes can help you manage your symptoms and feel your best. While there is no one-size-fits-all approach, some common lifestyle changes that may help include eating a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, and reducing stress. If you’re not sure where to start, talk to your doctor or a registered dietitian for advice.

 

The Impact of Having IBD

 

The Emotional Impact of Having IBD

Not only do you have to deal with the physical symptoms of IBD, but the emotional impact can be pretty significant as well. It’s hard to feel like yourself when you’re constantly dealing with abdominal pain, diarrhea, and other gastrointestinal issues.

It can be easy to feel isolated and alone, like no one understands what you’re going through. But it’s important to remember that you’re not alone and that there are support groups for IBD patients.  With  a few lifestyle changes can literally change your life.

The Physical Impact of IBD

If you’re one of the affected by irritable bowel disease (IBD), you know that the physical impact of the condition can be significant.

One of the most important things you can do is to work with your healthcare team to develop a treatment plan that’s right for you.

This may include medication, dietary changes, and other lifestyle modifications.

The Psychological Impact of IBD

The psychological impact of IBD can be significant, as well.

The stress of living with a chronic illness can take a toll on your mental health. Additionally, the symptoms of IBD can be embarrassing and can make you feel isolated and alone.

 

IBD Treatments and Recommendations

If you’re one of the many people suffering from irritable bowel disease (IBD), you know that finding the right treatment can be a long and frustrating process.

There are a lot of different options out there, and what works for one person may not work for another. That’s why it’s important to work with your doctor to find the best treatment plan for you.

Depending on the severity of your symptoms, treatments for IBD can range from lifestyle changes to medication.

Here are a few general treatment recommendations for IBD:

1. Change your diet.
   For some people with IBD, making dietary changes can be very effective in managing symptoms.

   This might mean avoiding trigger foods and eating smaller meals every four hours.       

   A diet that is low in fat and easy to digest can help to reduce symptoms of IBD.

2. Medications:
   There are a variety of medications that can be used to treat IBD, including anti-inflammatory drugs, immunosuppressants, and biologics.

    

3. Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove part of the intestine that is affected by IBD.

    

4. Find healthy ways to manage stress. Meditation is a good way of reducing stress. 

 

Can IBD be Prevented?

There is no sure way to prevent IBD, but there are some things that may help lower your risk. For Crohn’s disease, avoiding smoking and eating a healthy diet may lower your risk.

For ulcerative colitis, staying at a healthy weight, eating a healthy diet, and avoiding smoking may help. There is no guarantee that these measures will prevent IBD, but they may help to lower your risk.

 

When You Should See a Doctor

Irritable bowel disorder can be a frustrating and debilitating condition, but there are ways to manage it and live a normal life.

With the help of a doctor, and by making lifestyle changes, such as following a special diet and reducing stress, you can minimize the symptoms of IBD and live a normal, healthy life.

Dr. Schneider offer services such as endoscopy procedures, including gastroscopy, colonoscopy and video capsule endoscopy.

For more information on the diagnosis and treatment of IBD in Johannesburg, contact Dr. Schneider or book your consultation today.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome Explained

 

IBS stands for irritable bowel syndrome.

It’s a condition that’s estimated to affect the lives of approximately 10 percent of the world’s population, with over 3 million Americans suffering from symptoms that can range from unnoticeable to debilitating.

People with IBS often face frequent, urgent bowel movements and/or debilitating stomach cramps or spasms.

Luckily, there are ways of managing your symptoms so that your quality of life is not impacted every single day.

There are three categories in which foods fall into when it comes to their effect on IBS symptoms.

Foods that are considered “irritants” contribute or bring about increased diarrhea and gastrointestinal spasms, while foods known as “protectants” are believed to limit immune response in order to ease symptoms of excess diarrhea. Foods in the third category are called “neutral.”

Learning more about irritable bowel syndrome can help you better understand and know how to control your symptoms.

In this article we will give you some guidance on what you should know when it comes to IBS. 

 

Symptoms of IBS

 

The signs and symptoms of IBS are variable but are usually present for long periods of time. Common symptoms include:

– Abdominal pain
– Cramping
– Bloating that are related to passing a bowel movement,
– Changes in the appearance of bowel movement
– Changes in how often you are having a bowel movement 

 

Causes of IBS

 

The exact cause of IBS isn’t known, the physical processes involved in IBS can also vary, but may consist of:

– Slowed or spastic movements of the colon, causing painful cramping
– Abnormal serotonin levels in the colon, affecting motility and bowel movements
– Mild coeliac disease that damages the intestines, causing IBS symptoms.

 

IBS Improvements

 

If you are suffering from irritable bowel syndrome, there are several treatment options that can help to reduce the effects of this disorder.

Probiotics are one of the most common irritable bowel treatments available for people suffering from IBS, in part because they have been scientifically proven in multiple instances to provide relief in people with irritable bowel syndrome.

The main reason probiotics are considered effective is because they boost the immune system, prevent diarrhea and constipation by reducing inflammation in the colon wall and promote balance within the digestive tract by feeding healthy bacteria cellular material to further aid digestion.

Not all of them may be the right fit for you.

Keeping a close eye on some of the following may help you to maintain good gut health and avoid flare-ups.

Food & Symptom Journal
Keeping a food and symptom journal is important to see if an individual has a sensitivity to certain foods.
Keeping a symptom journal also make it easier to track the frequency of symptoms.

Digestion Improvements
Improve your digestion with these three steps:

– Eat at regular times each day.
– Avoid eating late at night
– Enjoy three meals a day and up to one to two snacks spaced evenly throughout the day.
– Try to not overeat
– Eat when you are relaxed

Consume plenty of fluids
People with IBS-D may experience dehydration from frequent bouts of diarrhea and may need to drink extra fluids and electrolytes to keep their bodies hydrated. People with IBS-C also need extra water to help the stool move through the intestines. 

IBS Diet
 

A good food list can be difficult to create because there isn’t one single definitive guide to the topic. Everyone has their own ideas on what foods they think are healthy and tasty, and they will react differently to certain foods as well.

A simple rule is to go for as much variety as possible throughout your day, combining vegetables, legumes, and whole grains in your meals.

Eat lots of high-quality protein from fish or animal sources as well as raw nuts or seeds each day.

Here we break down the three categories explaining each:

Irritant Foods:
These types of foods tend to aggravate the digestive system and cause inflammation in the body, eliminate your trigger foods:

– Dairy products (think: butter, yogurt, and cheese)

– Spicy and fatty foods

– Alcohol (wine and beer mostly)

– Caffeine like coffee and tea

– Tomatoes

– Onions

– Garlic

Protectant Foods:
These types of food tend to calm the digestive system and unlikely to cause flare-ups:

– Vegetables

– Legumes

– Whole Grains

– Fish

– Raw nuts and seeds

– Fresh Fruit

– Herbs

Neutral Foods:
These types of food are good sources of soluble fiber and can help with regular pain-free bowel movements:

– Oats

– Oat Bran

– Ground Flax Seed

– Bran Cereals

– Whole wheat bread

– Whole wheat pasta

– Brown Rice

 

Exercise for IBS

 

Exercise is excellent for IBS sufferers because it can release endorphins, which are natural painkillers.

This makes the symptoms of IBS easier to cope with because exercise also helps reduce stress levels. The release of endorphins during exercise can also make gastrointestinal syndrome symptoms less severe.

These are reduced further when parasympathetic nervous system activity is stimulated through exercise. The first step should always be to consult a healthcare professional first before embarking on any physical activity.

Discuss the possible risks and benefits with them, choose an appropriate exercise program, one that’s suitable to your gastrointestinal disorder diagnosis and particular condition.

Exercise commonly used by people who suffer from Irritable Bowel Syndrome includes:

– Walking
– Jogging
– Cycling
– Swimming
– Pilates
– Aerobics

Exercise is part of the behavioral health and holistic care necessary to improve the brain-gut axis and outcomes in IBS, says Brennan Spiegel, MD, a gastroenterologist and a professor of medicine and public health and the director of health services research at Cedars-Sinai in Los Angeles.

 

Colonoscopy for IBS

 

The vast majority of people don’t know what a colonoscopy is.

It is an examination of the colon and rectum using a colonoscope (a long, flexible tube with a tiny viewing camera on the end).

The colonoscopy is used not only to diagnose colorectal cancer, but also to screen for colorectal cancer, polyps, diverticulosis, ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease, and other possible intestinal diseases.

Colorectal cancer is the second most common cancer, just after breast cancer. The good news is that colorectal cancer is preventable.

A colonoscopy can be a helpful tool for those with symptoms of IBS that may be caused by other symptoms such as symptoms of colon cancer.

The symptoms of colon cancer can be symptoms such as rectal bleeding, pain in the lower back, and weight loss.

These symptoms are not always present, but when they are, they are indicators that a person should have a colonoscopy to investigate the cause of the symptoms.

A colonoscopy can also be used to diagnose conditions such as Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, diverticulitis, and infections in someone who has IBS symptoms.

 

Conclusion

 

There are different treatment options that can be used in the management of IBS, including medication, surgery, medical therapies, nutritional and dietetic therapies.

Can you relate?  Are these symptoms familiar in your own life?

Dr. Schneider is here to provide you with expert medical advice in the field of gastroenterology with years of experience.

Book an appointment online or contact us  on 011 482-3010 to find out more. 

 

Overview

 

Ulcerative Colitis is a type of inflammatory bowel disease that affects the lining of the colon.

The inflammation can lead to ulcers, pus, or bleeding in the colon.

Sometimes, it can cause diarrhea with blood and mucus.

It’s not the same as Crohn’s Disease which also affects the colon but usually doesn’t lead to ulcers or bloody stools.

Ulcerative Colitis is chronic, meaning it will last indefinitely.

Left untreated, Ulcerative Colitis can eventually damage the colon and make it unable to absorb nutrients from food.

While there is currently no cure for Ulcerative Colitis, there are treatments available.

Let us look at Ulcerative Colitis in depth with some more information on the symptoms, causes, diagnosing thereof and treatment options.

 

Ulcerative Colitis Symptoms

 

Symptoms may also include:

–  Mouth sores

–  Hair loss

–  Nausea

–  Vomiting

–  Weight loss

–  Swollen ankles

–  Swollen legs and feet

–  Tenderness and inflammation of the palms and soles 

–  Ulcerations in the anus

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is an umbrella term for the following conditions: Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.

These are diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. 

 

When to See a Doctor for Symptoms of
Ulcerative Colitis:

 

– Symptoms of the disease include persistent diarrhea

– Rectal bleeding

– Constipation

– Abdominal pain

The pain is typically worse when eating and in the evenings.

Most people are diagnosed between the ages of 15 and 35, although the average age is 32.

The Causes of Ulcerative Colitis

 

While the exact cause is unknown, it’s likely a combination of genetic and environmental factors. 

These include exposure to stress and poor diet. 

One way the disease affects the body is by overstimulating the immune system and activating the immune cells in the colon. 

The body then sends white blood cells to attack the lining of the colon. 

Other causes as the disease becomes more severe, it also becomes more likely that other complications will occur.
 

Complications can include:

 

– Inflammation of the liver

– Inflammation of the spine

– Bladder cancer

– Bowel obstruction

– Colitis in the eye

In rare cases, it can cause cancer in other parts of the body like the pancreas.

Some of these complications may become apparent long before any symptoms arise.  

 

 

How to Diagnose Ulcerative Colitis

 

If a person develops symptoms of Ulcerative Colitis, they should visit a doctor.

The doctor will ask about symptoms, medical history, and family medical history.

The doctor may also order a stool analysis or colonoscopy to see how the disease is progressing. 

When the doctor examines the colon, they may also order blood tests to check for signs of inflammation. 

If the colon shows signs of ulceration, blood, and mucus, the doctor may ask questions about treatment and come up with a treatment plan. 

Depending on the severity of the disease, the doctor may recommend surgery, cortisone injections, or other treatments. 

Treating ulcerative colitis can be a long process. Over time, medication can help manage symptoms.

In addition to medication, surgery is another option in severe cases.

 

Can Ulcerative Colitis Be Prevented

Doctors can control the disease by controlling inflammation in the body.

When the immune system attacks the body, it starts damaging the cells and lining of the colon. 

The cause is still unknown, but researchers believe that diet, gut bacteria, and genetics all play a part in the disease. 

Many people with the disease say that things like stress, viruses, and bacterial infections can trigger flare-ups. 

One reason it’s so hard to diagnose inflammatory bowel disease is because there isn’t one clear-cut sign or symptom.

Prevention through Medication

Drug therapy as a method of preventing the effects of ulcerative colitis involves the use of anti-inflammatory drugs, steroids, and immunosuppressive drugs.

Anti-inflammatory drugs reduce inflammation caused by various diseases of the intestine, and therefore, first of all, drugs doctors usually prescribe to patients with ulcerative colitis.
 

Prevention through Probiotics

You may have already heard the term “probiotics” when looking for methods for the prevention of ulcerative colitis.

This applies to live bacteria, which you can easily find in yogurt, miso soup, and sauerkraut, which can bring health benefits to the consumer.

The theory behind the use of probiotics in the treatment of ulcerative colitis is that the “good bacteria” in the foods in question prevent the adhesion of “bad bacteria” to the walls of the colon and affect the patient’s quality of life. 

 

Types of Treatment for Ulcerative Colitis

There are three types of treatment available: medication, physical therapy, and dietary changes.

Physical therapy is to loosen the muscles in the colon to allow for better movement of the intestines.

Medication for Ulcerative Colitis

Medications for ulcerative colitis can suppress inflammation of the colon and heal tissues.

Symptoms such as diarrhea, bleeding, and abdominal pain can also be reduced and controlled with effective medications.

In addition to controlling and suppressing symptoms (causing remission), medications can also be used to reduce the frequency of symptom exacerbations (maintaining remission)

With proper treatment over time, periods of remission can be extended, and periods of exacerbation of symptoms can be reduced.

Today, various drugs are used to treat ulcerative colitis

 

Diet and Nutrition

 

The main medications used to treat Ulcerative Colitis include steroids and immunosuppressant medications such as biologics.

However, in order to get the most out of these treatments, you should follow a strict diet that includes a lot of vegetables, fiber, and fruit.

While it’s important to eat more vegetables and fiber than you might think is possible, more is not better.

It’s common for people on steroids to eat large amounts of food, especially carbs. It’s important to balance out your diet when you are taking steroids.

Most doctors will recommend low-glycaemic foods when you’re taking steroids to avoid weight gain and increase your metabolism.

Steroids can cause many unpleasant side effects including weight gain, high blood sugar, and mood swings.

Alternative Therapy and Home Remedies

 

There is currently no cure for Ulcerative Colitis, but there are treatments available to ease symptoms.

In many cases, these treatments include taking steroids and other drugs. Doctors may also recommend nutritionist and supplements such as Omega 3s and probiotics.

In some cases, these treatments include additional lifestyle changes like losing weight, taking probiotic supplements, and changing your diet.

Consult a Colorectal Specialist if you have symptoms of Ulcerative Colitis or other inflammatory bowel diseases.

According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, probiotics are “live micro-organisms that when administered in adequate amounts confer a health benefit on the host.

 

 

Conclusion

 

There are plenty of symptoms to look out for, and doctors can usually diagnose ulcerative colitis just by examining your colon and symptoms.

They may use a procedure called colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy.

At a doctor’s office, your doctor inserts a thin, flexible tube into your rectum that will then travel through your colon and into your large intestine.

During the procedure, your doctor will look for the disease. If there are ulcers or bleeding in your colon, they may remove the impacted tissue.

With no cure currently available, medications are the only treatment available to prevent complications from the disease.

People with Ulcerative Colitis can have complications, such as colon cancer or polyps, which can need to be removed.

For more information on the diagnosis and treatment of Ulcerative Colitis conditions in Johannesburg, contact Dr. Schneider or visit www.gidocjhb.co.za and book your consultation today.
 

 

Irritable bowel syndrome, while not life-threatening, can be a real hindrance to your daily routine and sense of wellbeing.

Here we look at its effects and how to manage the associated symptoms.

Overview

Irritable Bowel Syndrome otherwise known as “IBS“, can be a real deterrent for a life comfortably lived. The syndrome itself is a functional disorder affecting both adults and children alike.

It can cause very uncomfortable symptoms and can truly affect one’s livelihood to the point of real anguish.

The use of ‘functional’ to describe this disorder refers to the fact that there is not something wrong with the physical tissue of the digestive system.

Instead, irritable bowel syndrome systems are the result of changes in the functioning of the digestive system.

While irritable bowel syndrome is not life-threatening, it can disrupt many of a sufferer’s day-to-day activities to the point where lives need to be adapted around the syndrome.

Looking at this positively, it does not increase one’s chances of developing colon conditions such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis.

The disruption to daily life still persists and certainly warrants lifestyle changes and medical intervention to live a more comfortable, symptom-free life.

Speaking of symptoms, irritable bowel syndrome presents with a number of symptoms associated with the gastrointestinal system such as abdominal pain, cramping, food intolerance, bloating, and increased gas.

In short, irritable bowel syndrome upsets normal bowel habits and results in general stomach discomfort.

None of the above warrant hospital admission, unless it’s very serious, but it does cause a significant negative impact on one’s life from your work schedule to your ability to attend social events with friends and family.

In this article, we will start our look into IBS by exploring the causes of the syndrome followed by delving into the symptoms shown by those suffering from it.

Lastly but probably most importantly, we will look into methods we can use to prevent the onset of irritable bowel syndrome and prevent all the associated negative effects thereof.

 

Why Does Irritable Bowel Syndrome Occur?

Gut bacteria.

Those two words carry the weight of the entire explanation of irritable bowel syndrome and the gastrointestinal tract as a whole in terms of its health and optimum functioning.

Several factors trigger IBS but the chief culprit is an underlying change in the gut bacteria environment.

A number of other factors including the alteration of the gastrointestinal tract motility, and abnormal nervous system signals all contribute to the possible onset of IBS symptoms.

It’s important to limit factors that may result in these alterations and changes in gut bacteria. If limiting is not possible then it is important to at least understand what is going on to help better manage the symptoms.

That said, let us take a look into a broad range of factors that may predispose one to IBS and the related symptoms.

1. Stress

Psychological conditions such as anxiety and depression have been found in many people with IBS. Whether the two are a result of causation or a simple correlation is unknown with IBS.

In other words, psychological conditions may not be a direct cause of IBS, but research may find that it increases the probability that you will develop IBS.

2. Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth

Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) is the term used when one has too much bacteria in one’s intestine. While it is great to have a large gut bacteria environment, things start to become unhealthy when the gut reaches a state of being considered ‘overgrown’.

This indicates a shift in the balance of your small intestine’s environment. SIBO has its own list of risk factors ranging from diabetes to having a small intestine with an unusual shape.

In essence, SIBO usually starts when your small intestine doesn’t move food along the way it should. This can cause bacteria to grow and stay in an area too long. An imbalance can then occur if the “good” bacteria is hindered by the proliferation of harmful bacteria.

3. Food sensitivities

This is most likely caused due to poor absorption of sugars or acids in food. The result is irritation of the bowels and typically leads to IBS symptoms.

 

How Irritable Bowel Syndrome Affects Your Life

Generally speaking, IBS involves changes in the frequency and physical form of bowel movements. It is normally associated with lower abdominal pain as well.

Pain and cramping happen to be the most common symptom and a key factor in diagnosing the presence of IBS. The cause of this, explored later in this article, is related to changes in a patient’s microbiome.

Diarrhoea affects about one-third of those suffering from IBS making it another common sign of IBS. This in contrast to a less intuitive sign of IBS, namely constipation. In fact, constipation affects nearly half of people with IBS.

The root cause lies in altered communication between the brain and the bowel causing a change in bowel movement speed.

Diarrhoea and constipation can severely disrupt your plans and normal schedule. Routine trips to the shops or meetings may become stressful arrangements due to the often sudden arrival of IBS symptoms.

One of the most annoying reported symptoms of IBS is bloating. Most people with IBS report this making it an expected symptom when dealing with irritable bowel syndrome.

The above signs and symptoms are quite consistent across patients with high probabilities of occurring in patients with IBS. The next couple of symptoms vary more wildly among patients.

Fatigue has been attributed to IBS with adults finding themselves low on energy at work and in social interactions which can have a negative impact not only for you but also for those around you.

Patients with IBS have also found that their sleep suffers – difficulty falling asleep, waking frequently, and feeling unrested in the morning have all been reported. In general, patients have found their energy levels and restful states much lower with the onset of irritable bowel syndrome.

This could result in lower productivity, less satisfying relationships and reduced work output.

 

Preventing and Managing Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Treating IBS is a matter of installing lifestyle and dietary changes that are recommended by a doctor.

This means that a holistic approach is required to deal with the many facets of one’s biology and lifestyle that may be causing the patient’s IBS.

In general, lifestyle changes and recommendations about what you should eat may be combined with medicines, probiotics and mental health therapy, depending on the patient’s particular risk profile.

Patients need to heed the medical advice of their doctors when it comes to their specific situation. That said, here are a number of treatments that your doctor may recommend or extra treatments you could add to your treatment plan.

First, let’ look at several things you should certainly not do. Avoid doing this to help relieve irritable bowel syndrome symptoms:

1. Delay or skip meals
2. Eat meals too quickly
3. Eat lots of processed or fatty food
4. Eat more than three portions of fruit a day
5. Drink more than three cups of coffee a day
6. Drink lots of alcohol or fizzy drinks

In short, you want to try and avoid ingesting food and drink or engaging in behaviour that will place unnecessary stress on the gastrointestinal tract.

Now let’s take a look at some positive behaviours one can get into to lower the risk of irritable bowel syndrome onset.

1. Exercise

A solution seemingly as old as modern medical advice itself, the benefits of exercise apply to IBS therapy as well.

Not only has it been shown to improve IBS symptoms, but it also has a well-known effect on anxiety and depression which are IBS risk factors.

Exercise has the potential to alleviate symptoms and lower the reoccurrence of IBS down the line.

2. Set a Sleep Schedule

Our bodily functions are controlled by our biological clocks, or circadian rhythms. Gut functioning also follows this cycle.

As a result, if one’s sleep is disrupted, the gut may be suffering. It’s recommended to stick to a sleep schedule to help control fluctuations in gut irregularity.

If one is travelling across time zones, it may be worth taking some melatonin which can help regulate the circadian rhythm.

Consistency is key here. The upsides can be significant, not just for gut health but for one’s overall health as well.

 

3. Medication

Your doctor may prescribe certain medications to alleviate IBS symptoms and combat their reoccurrence.

An antihistamine may be given as this can help lower the histamine released in your gut due to an allergic reaction. This can lead to reduced inflammation and a resultant decrease in IBS symptoms.

Antidepressants in low doses have been shown to alleviate symptoms. Depending on the type of symptoms a patient is experiencing, different antidepressants may be prescribed.

Some help to inhibit the activity of nerves in the gut which helps to lower pain. In other cases, an antidepressant can be prescribed to speed up the gastrointestinal tract.

As mentioned earlier, IBS could be the result of an overgrowth of bacteria. In such cases, an antibiotic such as Rifaximin may be given by your doctor to inhibit the bacteria’s growth.

4. Diet and lifestyle

There are several lifestyle changes that can help alleviate IBS symptoms. Another two worth mentioning here are probiotics and yoga.

Probiotics help to balance your gut microbiome. They’re referred to as the “good bacteria” and can be found in many food sources such as dairy products and fruit like bananas.

Including this in your diet can be a good idea to get your gut microbiome to a sustainably healthy position.

Yoga has been suggested to alleviate the symptoms of IBS. One way it may achieve this is by increasing serotonin levels thereby decreasing feelings of stress and anxiety.

 

 

Summary

Irritable bowel syndrome, while not life-threatening, can be a major bump in the quest to living a comfortable, problem-free life.

Unfortunately, the symptoms associated with this mild disease can make that quest difficult.

Fortunately, lifestyle changes and careful dietary modifications can restrict the severity of IBS symptoms allowing patients with IBS to live a relatively healthy life.

For more information on the diagnosis and treatment of GI tract conditions in Johannesburg, contact Dr. Schneider or visit www.gidocjhb.co.za and book your consultation today.