Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is the name of a group of conditions that causes inflammation in all or part of the digestive tract. Two of the most common types of inflammatory bowel diseases include Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.
Symptoms of Inflammatory Bowel Disease
If you suffer from inflammatory bowel disease, such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, then you may experience the following symptoms:
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Blood in your stool
- Diarrhea
- Unexpected weight loss
- Reduced appetite
Symptoms are usually dependent on the severity of the inflammation, as well as the location of the inflammation in the digestive tract. If inflammatory bowel disease is prolonged and left untreated, it can result in more serious conditions, such as colon cancer, blood clots, malnutrition, bowel obstruction, and more. If you suffer from any of the symptoms mentioned above, then it is best to contact a gastroenterologist in Thousand Oaks. Your doctor will be able to provide you with treatment you need to prevent further or permanent damage. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!
Who is Susceptible to Inflammatory Bowel Disease?
While there is no direct link to an exact cause of inflammatory bowel disease, there are some factors that can potentially increase your risk of developing the disease, such as:
- Age
- Genetics
- Tobacco use
- Environmental factors (regular intake of refined foods or foods high in fat)
How is Inflammatory Bowel Disease Treated?
Inflammatory bowel disease is first diagnosed through an exam and colonoscopy, and once done, your doctor will then determine the best course of action for your particular case. This can range from medications aimed to treat the inflammatory bowel disease as well as important medical advice and dietary restrictions you may have to follow. Whatever the case is, it is best to contact an IBD specialist in Thousand Oaks as soon as possible. We are highly experienced in providing lasting and effective inflammatory bowel disease treatment in Thousand Oaks.