Dr. Vaibhav Somani, Bombay Hospital
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects the digestive tract, primarily the small and large intestines. It is a complex and debilitating disorder that affects millions of people worldwide, with symptoms including abdominal pain, diarrhea, rectal bleeding, fatigue, and weight loss.
There are two main types of IBD: ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. Ulcerative colitis affects the inner lining of the large intestine and rectum, while Crohn's disease can affect any part of the digestive tract, from the mouth to the anus but most commonly affects small intestine ( Ileum ) and large intestine ( colon ). Both conditions can cause inflammation, ulcers, and tissue damage, which can lead to serious complications such as bowel obstruction, perforation, and colon cancer.
IBD has been considered as a disease of white people of European descent living in industrialized regions of the Western world. The incidence and prevalence of IBD in India is increasing due to globalization and considering our large population, there will be huge burden of IBD cases in India in the coming years.
The overall estimated IBD population in India in 2010 was 1.4 million, which was the second highest number after the USA (with 1.64 million). There-fore, although the disease prevalence in India is lower than in the West, with a population of more than 120 million, the total IBD population in India is amongst the largest across the globe.
Despite extensive research, the exact causes of IBD remain unknown, but it is thought to involve a combination of genetic, environmental, and immune system factors. Living with IBD can be challenging, both physically and emotionally.
Given the unpredictable nature of the condition, it requires frequent and consistent medical care. IBD can sometimes be a challenging condition to manage as it has a relapsing, remitting course and requires lifelong treatment in most patients. Early diagnosis and treatment of IBD is essential for good control of the disease. There are several treatment options available to help alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life. Medications such as aminosalicylates, corticosteroids, immunomodulators, and biologics can help reduce inflammation and promote healing in the digestive tract. Nutritional therapy, including the use of exclusive enteral nutrition and specialized diets, can also be effective in managing symptoms. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove damaged or diseased portions of the digestive tract. A combination of these treatments, along with lifestyle modifications such as stress reduction and regular exercise, can help individuals with IBD lead healthy and fulfilling lives.
Family and financial support is a very important part of the treatment cycle. There are support groups and foundations which help patients with IBD to manage their treatments and promote a healthy lifestyle.
There are many undiagnosed cases in the community because of lack of awareness especially in remote areas. We need to increase the awareness in the public and primary care physicians for early diagnosis and treatment.
To contact Dr. Vaibhav Somani, visit: www.drvaibhavsomani.com
