Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A condition that changes life's routine

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is a chronic condition that profoundly impacts all aspects of a patient's life, extending far beyond intestinal issues, according to Haluk Tarık Kani, a professor in the Gastroenterology Department at Marmara University's Faculty of Medicine.

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Especially diarrhea lasting more than 3-4 weeks, nighttime diarrhea, blood or mucus in stool, unintentional weight loss, fever, and anemia should be considered red flags.

Kani highlighted that the prolonged nature of symptoms and the presence of inflammation distinguish IBD from common digestive complaints. He stressed that persistent diarrhea lasting over 3-4 weeks, especially if occurring at night, accompanied by blood or mucus in the stool, unintentional weight loss, fever, or anemia, should be considered red flags. Individuals with a family history of IBD are advised to be particularly vigilant.

He noted that diagnosis can be delayed for years, often because symptoms are mistaken for stress, gastritis, hemorrhoids, or irritable bowel syndrome. Some patients normalize their symptoms over time and delay seeking medical help, Kani warned, adding that unchecked inflammation can lead to permanent bowel damage. For Crohn's disease patients, this can result in strictures, fistulas, and abscesses, while ulcerative colitis can lead to severe attacks and increased hospitalizations.

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Some patients normalize their complaints over time and do not seek medical attention. However, uncontrolled inflammation can lead to permanent damage in the intestine.

IBD typically emerges in young adulthood but can affect individuals at any age. The constant need for the toilet, fatigue, and pain can force students to miss classes and professionals to withdraw from social life. Kani described IBD as an "invisible disability" because patients may appear healthy externally while suffering intense pain, weakness, and urgent needs.

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Students can miss classes, and employees can withdraw from social life due to the constant need for the toilet, fatigue, and pain.

Psychological support is a vital component of IBD treatment, as patients frequently experience anxiety, social isolation, and depression. Recent advancements in biological medications have transformed IBD management, reducing hospital stays and the need for surgery, although surgery remains a life-saving option in certain cases. Kani also emphasized that while diet plays a supportive role, it cannot control IBD alone; medication remains essential.

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The patient may appear healthy from the outside, but may experience intense pain, weakness, and an urgent need for the toilet.