In recent years, gastrointestinal issues have become somewhat less taboo amongst the general American public in part due to awareness campaigns and advertisements for medical treatments and probiotic supplements. Thankfully, bowel and gut health have become important conversations for discussion. Talking with medical professionals about any of these issues can improve your everyday health.
Individuals suffering with pain are now encouraged to see a gastroenterologist about their intestinal troubles. Some are diagnosed with a mild gluten sensitivity or Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)—both of which can be frustrating but are fairly simple to manage if treated properly. For others, bowel conditions go beyond the occasional “tummy trouble” and extend into the territory of painful, chronic disease. For these individuals, Inflammatory Bowel Disease (or IBD) can take over his or her life.
The two most common types of IBD are Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, both of which can cause severe abdominal pain/cramping, excessive diarrhea, constant fatigue, and rapid weight loss. For some, the condition is debilitating, sometimes requiring surgical removal of intestinal tissue and potentially the use of a permanent colostomy or ileostomy bag.
Fortunately for patients suffering with IBD, there are several medical treatments and pharmaceuticals available that can help manage these difficult symptoms. If you are experiencing symptoms of severe diarrhea, intestinal pain, exhaustion and/or unexplained weight loss, it is important that you make an appointment with a gastroenterologist specialist. Inflammatory Bowel Disease can cause permanent damage if left unchecked, and patients fare much better when diagnosed and treated early on by a medical professional.