Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis Guide
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is a lifelong condition that affects the digestive system and can greatly impact a person’s daily life. In the Philippines, awareness of IBD remains limited, and many people mistake its symptoms for ordinary stomach problems, food intolerance, or stress-related discomfort. This lack of awareness often leads to delayed diagnoses and prolonged health challenges.
Unlike common digestive issues, IBD is a serious inflammatory condition that requires proper medical care and long-term management. The two most common types of IBD are Crohn’s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC), both of which can affect Filipinos of different ages.
With the recent observance of Crohn’s and Colitis Awareness Week in the Philippines, it presents an opportunity to discuss bowel health and the importance of early consultation. Getting checked early can make a big difference, helping prevent complications and improving quality of life.
What is Crohn's Disease
According to the Cleveland Clinic, Crohn’s disease is a long-term autoimmune condition that causes inflammation in the digestive system, often affecting the small and large intestines (colon).
People living with Crohn’s disease may experience a range of uncomfortable symptoms, including abdominal pain, frequent diarrhea, bloody stool, and weight loss. Other symptoms include fever, fatigue, mouth ulcers, and infections that develop around the anal area.
Some people may also experience joint pain or swelling, skin rashes, eye irritation, kidney stones, weak or thinning bones, skin tags (often near the anal area), and inflammation affecting the bile ducts.
Crohn’s disease can lead to serious complications that may require additional treatment or even surgery. These can include pockets of pus in the digestive tract, painful tears around the anus, abnormal connections between organs called fistulas, and intestinal blockages. Ongoing inflammation can also interfere with nutrient absorption, leading to malnutrition and anemia. Over time, Crohn’s disease may increase the risk of colon cancer and blood clots.
Digestive discomfort is common, but symptoms that persist, worsen, or interfere with daily life should not be ignored. If you’ve been dealing with ongoing stomach pain, frequent diarrhea, sudden weight loss, or any combination of the symptoms mentioned above, it’s important to get checked by a healthcare professional. Early consultation can help prevent complications and lead to better long-term outcomes.
At the Care Center Clinic, patients can receive thorough evaluation, guidance, and coordinated care for digestive concerns. Our experienced gastroenterologists in the Philippines can assess symptoms, recommend appropriate diagnostic tests, and help determine whether Crohn’s disease or another condition may be causing the problem. Getting an accurate diagnosis is the first step toward effective treatment, symptom control, and improved quality of life.
What is Ulcerative Colitis
According to the Mayo Clinic, ulcerative colitis causes swelling and open sores, called ulcers. They usually start in the rectum and sometimes spread to other parts of the colon.
The symptoms of ulcerative colitis can vary depending on how severe the inflammation is, and they usually develop gradually. Common signs include diarrhea, sometimes with signs of blood, mucus, or pus. Some people can experience abdominal pain and cramping, rectal discomfort, and a strong, urgent need to pass stool. Other symptoms may include weight loss, fatigue, and fever.
Ulcerative colitis can lead to serious health issues if not properly managed. Possible complications include severe bleeding, dehydration, anemia, weakened bones, inflammation in the eyes, skin, or joints, and an increased risk of colon cancer and blood clots. In children, ulcerative colitis can also affect growth, leading to delays in reaching normal developmental milestones.
How To Know If You Have Ulcerative Colitis
If you notice persistent changes in your bowel movements, frequent abdominal pain, blood in your stool, or a fever with no clear cause that lasts more than a day or two, it’s important to seek medical advice. Consult with a trusted gastroenterologist at the Care Center Clinic for proper medical assessment.
Bottomline
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), which includes Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, is a lifelong condition that requires ongoing care and attention. While there is currently no cure for IBD, early diagnosis, proper treatment of symptoms, and regular check-ups can help reduce flare-ups and prevent serious complications. With the right support, many people with IBD are able to live active and fulfilling lives.
Raising awareness empowers individuals to listen to their bodies and take symptoms seriously. Persistent digestive problems, unexplained weight loss, or blood in the stool should never be ignored. If you or a loved one is experiencing these warning signs, visit your nearest Care Center Clinic, a PhilHealth YAKAP-accredited clinic in Metro Manila, for a proper medical evaluation. Remember that early action can make a lasting difference.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
1. Is inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) the same as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)?
No. IBD and IBS are different conditions. IBD, which includes Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease. IBS does not cause inflammation of the tissues and is generally less serious.
2. Is there a cure for Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis?
At present, there is no cure for IBD. However, proper treatment can help manage symptoms and allow many patients to live an active and quality life.
3. What causes IBD?
The exact cause is still unknown. Experts believe IBD develops due to a combination of genetics, an overactive immune system, and environmental factors.
4. When should I see a doctor?
You should consult a healthcare professional if you have persistent diarrhea, abdominal pain, blood in your stool, unexplained weight loss, or fever that lasts more than a day or two. Early consultation helps prevent complications.
5. How is IBD diagnosed?
A gastroenterologist may recommend blood tests, stool tests, imaging studies, or procedures such as a colonoscopy to confirm the diagnosis and determine disease severity.