Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a term used for disorders that trigger an inflammatory response in the digestive tract. The two most common IBDs are ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. Over two million Americans suffer from inflammatory bowel disease. There is no known cure for IBD, however, symptoms can be successfully managed so there is less effect on the quality of life.

The goal of inflammatory bowel disease treatment is to suppress the inflammatory response and control symptoms. For instance, pain and diarrhea symptoms should be managed using medications that allow you to achieve remission. Fortunately, there are a lot of effective treatments available for IBD.

Inflammatory bowel disease treatment

Treatment for bowel disease depends on the severity of the condition, which means treatment will vary from patient to patient. Here are some effective treatments:

•  Anti-inflammatory Medications: Most patients with mild to moderate IBD respond well to anti-inflammatory medications. These medications can help reduce the symptoms of flareups. Examples of anti-inflammatory medications include aminosalicylates, mesalamine, and corticosteroids.
• Antibiotics: There are certain complications with Crohn’s disease, such as pus formation, abscesses, and anal fistulae. Crohn’s sufferers are prone to infection caused by the C. difficile bacteria which causes symptoms like abdominal pain and bloody stools. Antibiotics are usually recommended for patients with mild to moderate Crohn’s disease.
• Immunomodulators and Immunosuppressants: Inflammatory diseases are caused by an abnormal inflammatory response from the body. Immunomodulators and immunosuppressants are prescribed for long-term treatment of IBD patients. Both types of medication work to calm your immune system and control its response. These are recommended to patients with moderate to severe IBD symptoms when anti-inflammatory and other medications have failed to work.
• Dietary changes: Any inflammatory bowel disease treatment plan will include dietary changes. This is especially true when you’re experiencing a flareup. Specialized diets for IBD sufferers are semi-vegetarian, low carbohydrate, and low-fiber. Making these changes can greatly reduce the frequency and intensity of flareups and can reduce your dependency on medications.

Inflammatory bowel disease treatment in Carlise, PA

If you are suffering from symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease, see a gastroenterologist to get diagnosed and treated. IBD may not be curable, but it is definitely manageable. With proper care from a qualified physician, you can take back control and live a life free of unpleasant symptoms.

At US Digestive Health in central Pennsylvania, we believe diagnosis is the first step in treating inflammatory bowel disease. Trust that with our skills and experience, we will determine the best treatment plan for you.

Our gastroenterology team specializes in the treatment of Upper GI Tract and Lower GI tract disorders. In our state-of-the-art endoscopy center, we offer the most advanced endoscopic procedures to provide the highest quality endoscopic care to our patients.

At US Digestive Health, we practice compassionate care. We listen to you and do our best to ensure you are comfortable with your treatment.

If you have any questions about our services or would like to make an appointment, please call (717) 245-2228 or request an appointment now. Our friendly team looks forward to serving you!