We are a specialized Gastroenterology practice in Johannesburg and work closely with each patient to develop ongoing, effective treatment plans that improve and maintain overall health and nutrition while minimizing side effects and relieving the discomfort and stress of Inflammatory Bowel Disease.

Understanding Crohn’s disease can help you and your loved ones navigate the uncertainty that comes with a new diagnosis. 

What is IBD?

IBD causes inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, which begins at the mouth and extends through the stomach and intestines to the anus. IBD is a long-term condition with no cure, however, there are treatment options available.

What Causes IBD?

As of today, the exact cause of IBD is unknown, but IBD is the result of a defective or unhealthy immune system. A properly functioning immune system attacks foreign organisms, such as viruses and bacteria, to protect the body. In IBD, the immune system responds incorrectly to environmental triggers, which causes inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract. Unfortunately, someone with a family history of IBD is more likely to develop this disease.

How Do You Know If You Have IBD?

A person with IBD will generally go through periods in which the disease appears in cycles, followed by periods in which symptoms decrease or disappear and good health returns.

Symptoms of IBD include:

  • Abdominal cramps and pain
  • Fever
  • Pain, cramps or swelling in the tummy 
  • Recurring or bloody diarrhea
  • Weight loss
  • Extreme tiredness

Risk Factors for Developing Inflammatory Bowel Disease

The biggest risk factors for developing Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis include:

Smoking

IBD is more common among smokers, and smoking can also make symptoms worse in these patients.

Ethnicity

IBD is present in all populations. However, IBD is more common in whites of northern European descent and the Jewish population.

Age

IBD can happen at any age, but in most cases, it starts before the age of 35.

Family History

People who have a parent, sibling, or child with IBD are at a much higher risk for developing it themselves.

Geographical Region

People who live in Western countries like the United States and Europe have a higher IBD risk than those in other parts of the world. The reason could be lifestyle factors such as smoking, diet, or pollution. 

Gender

In general, IBD affects both genders. However, Crohn’s disease is more common among women.

Sidenote: If you are looking for more in-depth research information about IBD, we recommend reading the online journals found here 

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IBD Diagnosis

To diagnose IBD, a doctor will typically start by taking a medical history and performing a physical exam. They may also order one or more of the following tests to aid their diagnosis:

  • Your first tests will likely include laboratory tests of your blood and stool.
  • Further testing could include X-rays of the upper and lower GI tract and either blood, stool endoscopy or colonoscopy test if needed. During this procedure, the doctor inserts a flexible, lighted tube called a colonoscope into the rectum. The doctor can check the entire colon for polyps or cancer.

How is IBD Treated?

Although there is no cure for IBD, the goal of treatment is to help patients achieve remission, avoid relapses and have the best quality of life. Treatment for IBD involves a combination of self-care and medical treatment.

Self-Care

While Crohn’s disease may not be the result of bad reactions to specific foods, paying special attention to your diet may help reduce symptoms, replace lost nutrients, and promote healing. It’s important to talk with your doctor about ways to modify your diet while making sure you get the nutrients you need. 

Medical Treatment

Medication treating Crohn’s disease is designed to suppress your immune system’s abnormal inflammatory response that is causing your symptoms. Suppressing inflammation not only offers relief from common symptoms like fever, diarrhea, and pain, it also allows your intestinal tissues to heal. Surgery becomes necessary when medications can no longer control symptoms.

If you’re confused about all the medications and types of surgeries available, it is important to review the risks and benefits of all treatment options with your Gastroenterologist.

Frequently Asked Questions about IBD :