What is inflammation of the bowel?

What is inflammation of the bowel?

Hi , I'm Dr Desmond Chee, a gastroenterologist here in Melbourne, Australia.

Today we're going to talk about a common and often confusing issue, inflammation of the bowel. It might sound scary, but it's something I see every day in my practice and we can break it down together today.

First, let's be clear. Inflammation of the bowel is not a specific disease. It's a general term that describes a group of conditions where your digestive tract, specifically your intestines, becomes inflamed. This inflammation can cause a range of symptoms, which we'll discuss in a moment. Now, what causes this inflammation? There are many possible culprits, including infections, autoimmune disorders, certain medications and even stress.

However, in most cases, the exact causes remain unknown. So how do you know if you have inflammation in your bowel? Let's look at the most common symptoms;

• Diarrhea. This is often the most prominent symptom and it can range from mild to severe.

• Abdominal pain. This pain can be localized or widespread and it might be accompanied by cramping or bloating.

• Blood in the stool. This can be a sign of more severe inflammation and it's important to see your doctor straight away.

• Fatigue. You might feel constantly more tired and lacking in energy.

• Weight loss. This is often unintentional and can occur despite a good appetite and diet.

Now, if you're experiencing any of these symptoms, it's essential to see your doctor. They will ask about your medical history, perform a physical examination and might order some tests to help to diagnose the underlying cause of the inflammation.

Common tests may include:

• A stool sample. This can identify the presence of blood, parasites or bacteria that might be causing the inflammation.

• Blood tests. This can check for signs of inflammation, anemia and other potential issues.

• Endoscopy. This procedure allows your doctor to visually examine the lining of your digestive tract using a thin, flexible tube with a camera attached at the end.

It's estimated that around 1 in 200 Australians are affected by inflammatory bowel disease, which is one of the most common causes of inflammation of the bowel. Thankfully, there are effective treatment options available for inflammation of the bowel and they depend on the underlying cause.

They may include:

• Medications. Anti-inflammatory drugs, antibiotics and immune-modulating medications can help to manage inflammation and symptoms.

• Diet changes. Some people find that eliminating certain food such as dairy or gluten help to reduce symptoms.

• Lifestyle modifications. Maintaining a healthy weight, managing stress and getting enough sleep can also be beneficial.

• Surgery. In some cases, surgery may be needed to remove a portion of the affected bowel. It's important to remember that every case is unique and the best treatment plan will vary depending on the individual.

The key is to talk to your doctor and work together to find a solution that works for you.

Additional videos on a range of common conditions are available to view on the Gastroenterology Specialist Care YouTube channel.

Note, this video is not a medical consultation. Any medical information is general in nature and is not intended to provide individual clinical advice. You should contact your doctor or other healthcare professional in relation to any concerns they may have, as your own circumstances may be different.

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