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World IBD Day, 2024: So many Indians suffer from it, but why don’t we talk about it?

Dr Sayed Fareed Esa

3 Min Read

Fast Check Fact Checked

Overview

World Inflammatory Bowel Disease Day (IBD) is observed on May 19 each year to raise awareness about inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Even though it’s a rare condition, this disease can strike at any age and, if not properly managed, can lead to life-threatening complications. A proper understanding of IBD can help manage this condition.

What is inflammatory bowel disease?

It is a group of chronic medical conditions that cause inflammation in the digestive system.

(IBD should not be confused with IBS, which stands for inflammatory bowel syndrome.)

There are two main types of IBD:

Crohn’s disease, and
Ulcerative colitis

Depending on where they occur, these conditions can cause tissue swelling (inflammation) and ulcers (sores) in the digestive tract.

While Crohn’s disease can affect any portion of the digestive tract, ulcerative colitis only affects the colon and large intestine.

Symptoms of IBD

Symptoms of Crohn’s disease include:

Abdominal pain is the most common presenting complaint in Crohn’s Disease
Fever
Weight loss
Severe diarrhea
Fatigue
Malnutrition

Symptoms of ulcerative colitis include:

Bloody diarrhea is the most common presenting complaint in Ulcerative Colitis
Rectal pain and bleeding
Weight loss
Fatigue
In children, failure to grow

Read: Difference between piles, fistula, and fissure explained.

Is there a cure for IBD?

There are no known cures for IBD. However, medications and therapies can greatly reduce the signs and symptoms and even lead to long-term remission and healing of inflammation. With the right treatment, many people with IBD are able to function well.

What are the causes of IBD?

The exact cause of IBD is not known. Earlier, doctors thought that diet and stress were the reasons, but researchers now know that these can aggravate the condition but do not cause it.

Several factors can likely play a role in its development.

Bacterial or viral infection: It’s believed that a bacteria or a virus could trigger IBD. However, scientists have yet to narrow down the exact causes of it. When your immune system attempts to fight an infection, it may, in the process, also attack your very cells, resulting in inflammation or ulcers.
Heredity: It’s observed that IBD runs in the family. So genes may play a role in increasing the likelihood of developing this illness. But it has also been seen that most people with IBD do not have a history of IBD in their family.

Is there a way to prevent IBD?

Since the exact cause of IBD is unknown, it cannot be prevented. However, you can take several measures to manage your symptoms and prevent other diseases that are complications of IBD.

Stop smoking. Smoking worsens symptoms and increases flare-ups among patients.
Eat a healthy, well-balanced diet. A healthy diet helps prevent IBD flare-ups.
Reduce stress. Meditation, exercise, or even yoga can help reduce stress levels, preventing IBD flare-ups.
Get vaccinated. Speak to your doctor about vaccinations that you need to take.
Get screened for colorectal cancer. People with IBD may need to get screened for colorectal cancer before they turn 50.
Get screened for cervical cancer. Women with IBD are more likely to develop cervical cancer.
Get screened for bone density. Certain medications used to treat IBD may cause bone loss. This may increase the risk of osteoporosis.

How to observe World IBD Day?

Help those in need:

On World IBD Day, consider volunteering at local organizations that support individuals with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), offering your assistance and resources to improve their quality of life.

Spread awareness:

Take the opportunity on World IBD Day to educate others about the realities of living with IBD by sharing accurate information through social media, community events, or even personal conversations to raise awareness and reduce stigma.

Distribute purple ribbons:

By distributing ribbons as a symbol of solidarity, you can increase awareness of this condition, spark conversations about its challenges, and promote empathy and understanding.

Consult a gastroenterologist

Are you suffering from inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)?

We’ve got you covered.

Whether you’re dealing with abdominal pain, diarrhea, weight loss, or other concerning symptoms, our gastroenterologists will conduct a thorough evaluation to determine the most appropriate course of action.

At MFine, your well-being is our priority. We believe in personalized treatment plans tailored to your specific needs. Our expert gastroenterologists utilize the latest advancements in medical science to provide you with effective interventions and therapies aimed at reducing symptoms, promoting remission, and improving your quality of life.

Don’t let the uncertainty of IBD hold you back. Contact us today and experience compassionate care, expertise, and peace of mind. Your journey towards managing IBD starts here with MFine.

Consult now!

Conclusion

World IBD Day serves as a vital platform to raise awareness, support those affected by inflammatory bowel disease, and foster a more compassionate and informed society. By working together to support those in need, spreading awareness, and symbolizing solidarity through wearing purple ribbons, we can make a big difference in the lives of people with IBD. Let us strive for a future where understanding, empathy, and effective management of IBD are prioritized, ultimately enhancing the well-being of those living with this challenging condition.

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Written by

Dr Sayed Fareed Esa

Dr. Syed Fareed Esa is a General Physician with over 4 years of experience in treating lifestyle disorders like Diabetes, Hypertension, Dyslipidemia, etc. He has worked previously at AIG Hospital Gachibowli, and Metro Cure Hospital. Currently, he is working as a Consultant General Physician at MFine.

World IBD Day, 2024: So many Indians suffer from it, but why don’t we talk about it?

Overview

What is inflammatory bowel disease?

Symptoms of IBD

Is there a cure for IBD?

What are the causes of IBD?

Is there a way to prevent IBD?

How to observe World IBD Day?

Help those in need:

Spread awareness:

Distribute purple ribbons:

Consult a gastroenterologist

Conclusion

Request a Call Back

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