INFLAMMATORY BOWEL DISEASE

 

‘Inflammatory bowel disease’ tends to mean either ulcerative colitis (UC) or Crohn’s Disease. These conditions most commonly affect young adults but can present at any age.

 

SYMPTOMS

The symptoms of UC are usually diarrhoea and blood in the stool. Crohn’s Disease may have a more varied set of symptoms but can include diarrhoea, bleeding, tummy ache and weight loss. Sometimes these conditions run in families. 

 

INVESTIGATION

Investigations for Inflammatory Bowel Disease is usually with a stool test (faecal calprotectin) and then colonoscopy and/or MRI scan. 

Further information: https://www.crohnsandcolitis.org.uk

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TREATMENT

Most people with IBD are treated medically (i.e. with drugs). In certain cases, surgery may be indicated and can often be done with keyhole surgery. 

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