IBD Specialist

What is IBD?

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) refers to health conditions that cause chronic inflammation of the digestive tract. IBD affects 1 in 200 people in the United States. 

The ongoing inflammation damages the gastrointestinal tract, affecting structure and function and potentially causing malabsorption that leads to malnutrition. 

Researchers are still investigating what causes someone to develop IBD, but theorize it may occur from a combination of genetic and environmental factors. 

What are the types of IBD?

There are three known types of IBD: ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease, and microscopic colitis.

Ulcerative colitis

Ulcerative colitis causes continuous inflammation of the innermost lining of the large intestine. 

Crohn’s disease

Crohn’s disease is an inflammatory condition that may affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract, but most often occurs in the small intestine. Inflammation with Crohn’s disease affects the deeper layers of your gastrointestinal tract. 

Microscopic colitis

Microscopic colitis is a type of IBD that causes gastrointestinal inflammation that can only be found under a microscope. 

What are the symptoms of IBD?

Symptoms of IBD vary and may depend on the type of IBD you have and the location of your inflammation. Symptoms range from mild to severe, and you may go through periods where you have no symptoms at all. 

Common symptoms of IBD include:

• Diarrhea
• Abdominal pain
• Blood in stool
• Rectal bleeding
• Gas and bloating
• Unexplained weight loss
• Loss of appetite

Though not as common, IBD may also cause fevers, anemia, or joint pain. 

How is IBD diagnosed?

Dr. Steele conducts in-depth clinical exams to diagnose IBD. During your visit, he asks detailed questions about your symptoms and bowel habits. He also reviews your medical and family history and performs a physical. 

To confirm or rule out a diagnosis, Dr. Steele may run bloodwork and stool tests. He may also perform a colonoscopy, upper endoscopy, or capsule endoscopy to evaluate the lining of your gastrointestinal tract. 

How is IBD treated?

Dr. Steele customizes your IBD treatment plan based on the type, symptoms, and severity of your inflammation. 

When possible, he takes a conservative approach and recommends medical treatments to manage symptoms, such as:

• Diet modifications
• Nutritional supplements
• Corticosteroids
• Immunomodulators
• Biologics
• Antibiotics

If conservative care fails to provide adequate relief from your symptoms, or your inflammation is severe, Dr. Steele may recommend surgery to remove the inflamed portion of your bowel.

Surgery is common in people with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis and may ultimately improve overall quality of life.

To schedule an evaluation with the board-certified gastroenterologist, call the office of Stephen Steele, MD, or book an appointment online today.