Learn more about irritable bowel disease, its symptoms, and how to treat it.

Irritable bowel disease (IBD) is a group of chronic intestinal disorders that cause inflammation and other issues within the digestive tract. IBD should not be confused with IBS, as these are very different conditions. If you are dealing with digestive symptoms of IBD, it’s important that you turn to our The Woodlands, Conroe, TX, gastroenterologist Dr. Ilyas Memon for a diagnosis.

What are the most common types of IBD? 

The two main types of IBDs are ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. While both cause chronic inflammation, ulcerative colitis causes inflammation and ulcers in the large intestines and rectal lining. In contrast, Crohn’s disease causes inflammation deep within the digestive tract lining.

What are the signs and symptoms of IBD? 

If you are experiencing any of these classic symptoms of IBD, it’s essential that you turn to our The Woodlands, and Conroe, TX, gastroenterologist right away for an evaluation,

• Bloody stools
• Unexpected weight loss
• Rectal bleeding
• Fatigue
• Abdominal pain and cramping
• Diarrhea

IBD flare-ups can be severe at times and may significantly impact an individual’s daily routine, activities, and quality of life. IBD can also lead to serious health complications.

What causes IBD? 

Unfortunately, the cause of IBD is still unknown; however, it’s believed that certain environmental factors, genetics, and immune system dysfunction could all play roles in whether someone develops IBD.  

What are my treatment options? 

Since there is no cure for IBD, our treatment plans focus on ways to reduce the number and severity of your flare-ups. With the proper treatment plan in place, we have even provided long-term relief and remission from symptoms. Some treatment options include,

• Strong anti-inflammatory medications such as corticosteroids
• Immunosuppressant drugs
• Biologics
• Certain vitamins and supplements
• Nutritional changes

We will work with you to create a plan that focuses on lifestyle and dietary changes and medications to help manage symptoms. Only if you find that these options aren’t working will we possibly recommend surgery.

While there is no cure for IBD, our The Woodlands, and Conroe, TX, gastroenterologist Dr. Memon can help you get your symptoms under control through lifestyle changes and medications. Call today to discuss your treatment options. Contact us for an appointment in The Woodlands, TX, at (281) 783-6459, and in Conroe, TX, at (281) 764-9500.