FAQ

What is IBD?

There are two types of IBD: Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Ulcerative colitis can cause inflammation and ulcers in the large intestine and rectum while Crohn’s disease can cause inflammation in any part of the gastrointestinal tract. While related, these two types of IBD often have differing symptoms and may be treated differently.

What Causes IBD?

The exact cause of IBD is unknown. However there appears to be a combination of factors involved, such as genetic risk factors, immune dysfunction, and environmental exposure.

Who Gets IBD?

Age: Most people are diagnosed before 30 years of age, though some don’t develop the disease until their 50s or 60s.
Race or ethnicity: IBD is more common in white people but can occur in any race.
Family history: You are at higher risk if you have a close relative (eg, parent, sibling, child) with IBD.
Cigarette smoking: Cigarette smoking is the most important controllable risk factor for developing Crohn’s disease. While it may help prevent ulcerative colitis, its harm to overall health greatly outweighs any benefit. Smoking can harm the digestive tract and several other aspects of your health as well.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications: Medications such as ibuprofen, naproxen sodium, diclofenac sodium and others can increase the risk of developing IBD or worsen the disease in people who have IBD.

What Are Some Of The Symptoms Of IBD?

The most common symptoms of IBD include diarrhea, fatigue, abdominal pain and cramping, blood in the stool, reduced appetite, and unintended weight loss.

How Will IBD Impact My Life?

When treated effectively, IBD should have little or no impact on your life. However, if left untreated, it can disrupt work, school, social, and family life.

Is IBD Contagious?

IBD is not contagious.

Is There A Cure For IBD?

At this time there isn’t a cure for IBD. However, effective treatment and consistent care can help control symptoms. Your doctor will work with you to find the best possible treatment for your needs.

Will I Have To Take Medicine For The Rest Of My Life?

IBD is a long-term, chronic disease. Most patients will need to take maintenance medicine to manage symptoms and lower the number and severity of flares throughout their lives.

Will I Need Surgery For IBD?

Roughly one-third of people with ulcerative colitis and up to three-quarters of people with Crohn’s disease will receive surgery. Some people can choose surgery depending on how the disease affects their lives. Others may need surgery due to disease complications.

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References

Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of America. Frequently Asked Questions About Inflammatory Bowel Disease. https://www.crohnscolitisfoundation.org/sites/default/files/legacy/frequently-asked-ibd.pdf

Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. Inflammatory Bowel Disease Center. What is IBD? IBD FAQs. https://www.mountsinai.org/locations/ibd-center/what-is-ibd/faqs

Mayo Clinic. Diseases & Conditions. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/inflammatory-bowel-disease/symptoms-causes/syc-20353315

University of Michigan Health. Digestive and Liver Health. Frequently Asked Questions About Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). https://www.uofmhealth.org/conditions-treatments/digestive-and-liver-health/crohns-faq

DISCLAIMER
This site is NOT considered medical advice. It contains general information about IBD, and patients must not rely on the information as an alternative to advice from their healthcare provider. Patients should never delay seeking medical advice, discontinue medical treatment, or disregard medical advice based on the information on this site.