Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) in Houston

Symptoms of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)

IBD symptoms can vary in severity and may come and go in flare-ups. Common signs include:

• Persistent diarrhea
• Abdominal pain and cramping
• Blood in stool
• Unexplained weight loss
• Fatigue and weakness
• Loss of appetite
• Urgent need to have a bowel movement
• Fever

If you experience ongoing digestive symptoms, small bowel issue or anything else, it is essential to seek medical evaluation to determine the cause and receive timely treatment.

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause of IBD is unknown, but it is believed to result from a combination of genetic, immune system dysfunction, and environmental factors.

Potential Causes:

• Immune system response: An abnormal immune reaction may mistakenly attack the digestive tract, leading to inflammation.
• Genetics: Family history increases the risk of developing IBD.
• Environmental factors: Diet, pollution, and lifestyle may contribute to the condition.

Risk Factors:

• Age: IBD often develops in young adults but can occur at any age.
• Family history: Individuals with a close relative with IBD are at higher risk.
• Smoking: Increases the risk and severity of Crohn’s disease.
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): May trigger or worsen IBD symptoms.

Diagnosis of IBD

Diagnosing IBD involves a combination of clinical evaluation, laboratory tests, imaging, and endoscopic procedures to determine the extent of inflammation and rule out other conditions.

Common Diagnostic Methods:

• Blood Tests: Detect inflammation and anemia.
• Stool Tests: Identify infections or inflammation markers.
• Colonoscopy: A detailed examination of the colon to assess inflammation and collect biopsies.
• Endoscopy: Used for evaluating the upper GI tract if needed.
• Capsule Endoscopy: A pill-sized camera captures images of the small intestine.
• CT Scan or MRI: Helps assess inflammation in the digestive tract.

Early diagnosis is key to effective management and preventing complications.

Treatment and Management of IBD

There is no permanent cure for IBD, but treatment focuses on reducing inflammation, managing symptoms, and improving overall health.

Treatment Options Include:

• Medications:

  • Anti-inflammatory drugs (aminosalicylates, corticosteroids)
  • Immunosuppressants
  • Biologic therapies targeting inflammation
  • Antibiotics if infections occur

• Lifestyle and Dietary Changes:

  • A balanced, low-fiber diet during flare-ups
  • Avoiding trigger foods such as dairy, spicy foods, and high-fat items
  • Staying hydrated and managing stress

• Surgical Intervention:

  • In severe cases, surgery may be required to remove damaged portions of the intestines.

• Ongoing Monitoring:

  • Regular check-ups to adjust treatment plans based on disease progression.

At Curative Digestive Disease Center, our providers develop individualized treatment strategies to help each patient manage symptoms and maintain long-term digestive health.

Why Choose Curative Digestive Disease Center?

At Curative Digestive Disease Center, we are committed to providing advanced, patient-centered care for IBD and other digestive conditions. Our approach ensures:

✔ Expert Providers: Specialized in diagnosing and managing IBD.
✔ Advanced Diagnostic Tools: On-site endoscopy suite and in-house pathology for precise and timely results.
✔ Personalized Treatment Plans: Tailored strategies to suit individual patient needs.
✔ Compassionate Patient Care: A dedicated team that prioritizes patient well-being.
✔ Multidisciplinary Approach: Collaboration with nutritionists and other specialists for comprehensive care.

We strive to help our patients achieve long-term remission and a better quality of life.