On World Inflammatory Bowel Disease Day, delve into the complexities of IBD and its impact on the body, from digestive issues to extraintestinal manifestations. Join Dr. Victor Chedid as he unravels the symptoms, treatments, and importance of addressing the multifaceted nature of this chronic condition.
Hey there, folks! Today, let’s talk about something important – World Inflammatory Bowel Disease Day, which falls on May 19. Did you know that there are over 10 million people worldwide living with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)? That’s a significant number!
Now, what exactly is IBD? Well, it’s a chronic condition that causes inflammation in the digestive tract and sometimes in other parts of the body. It includes conditions like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, which can impact different areas of the digestive system.
Dr. Victor Chedid sheds some light on IBD and how its symptoms can be managed. Speaking of symptoms, they can range from diarrhea, rectal bleeding, fatigue, weight loss, to stomach and joint pain. Some patients might even develop extraintestinal manifestations, which can affect organs outside the gut.
Managing IBD involves various treatments like anti-inflammatory drugs, immune system suppressors, biologics, antibiotics, nutrition therapy, and in some cases, surgery. But here’s the kicker – living with IBD also means dealing with extra-intestinal manifestations (EIMs) that can wreak havoc on multiple organs and be seriously debilitating.
For instance, iron-deficiency anemia (IDA) is a common EIM in IBD patients with active disease, leading to fatigue in over 80% of cases. And let’s not forget about issues like uveitis, which can cause severe eye pain and vision loss if not treated promptly, or perianal fistulas, which are prevalent in about one-third of Crohn’s patients.
EIMs can also manifest in ways like anxiety, depression, migraines, and affect various organs. That’s why it’s crucial to recognize, manage, and seek care for these additional complications alongside treating IBD itself.
So, what’s the key to navigating this complex landscape of IBD and its extra challenges? Building a multidisciplinary care team is vital. This team can help in managing both IBD and EIM symptoms, providing support throughout the health journey. Remember, you’re not alone in this battle!
Stay informed, stay proactive, and most importantly, stay supported. Until next time!
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