Conditions · Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Long-term, personalized care for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), with the goal of lasting remission and a better quality of life.
Understanding IBD
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) includes Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Both cause ongoing inflammation of the digestive tract that comes and goes in flares.
Crohn’s disease can affect any part of the GI tract, most often the end of the small intestine. Ulcerative colitis affects the colon and rectum. With modern treatment, many people achieve long-term remission.
Signs & Symptoms
Symptoms vary depending on where inflammation occurs and how active the disease is.
Frequent, sometimes urgent bowel movements.
Blood in the stool, especially in ulcerative colitis.
Cramping, often in the lower abdomen.
Reduced appetite and poor absorption.
Often linked to inflammation or anemia.
Low-grade fevers during flares.
How It Works
Treatment is tailored to your disease type, location and severity.
Blood tests, stool tests such as fecal calprotectin, colonoscopy and imaging confirm the diagnosis.
Medications may include aminosalicylates, short-term steroids, immunomodulators and biologic or advanced therapies.
Regular labs and periodic colonoscopy check that inflammation is controlled.
Vaccines, bone health, nutrition and cancer surveillance are part of comprehensive care.
IBD Care in Denton
The goal of IBD treatment is more than symptom relief. Today’s approach aims for mucosal healing, meaning the lining of the intestine is no longer inflamed, which lowers the risk of flares, hospital stays and surgery.
Contact our office if you notice more frequent stools, bleeding, pain or fever. Early adjustment of treatment can shorten a flare.
People with colitis affecting much of the colon for eight years or more have a higher risk of colon cancer and need regular surveillance colonoscopy.
FAQ
No. IBD causes visible inflammation and damage to the intestine. IBS is a disorder of gut-brain interaction without inflammation.
Diet alone does not cure IBD, but good nutrition supports treatment and some diets help manage symptoms.
Many people never need surgery, especially with modern treatment. Surgery may be recommended for complications or when medications do not work.
Family history increases risk, but most people with IBD do not have an affected relative.
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Talk with an experienced gastroenterologist about managing Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis.