Inflammatory Bowel Disease - How Is It Linked With Arthritis
March, 2023
Learn more about Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), its symptoms and causes, and how it is linked with arthritis.
What is Inflammatory Bowel Disease?
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), including Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, is another condition that people with arthritis may be
at higher risk of developing.
Symptoms of IBD can include abdominal pain, diarrhoea, and weight loss, which can be similar to symptoms of arthritis.
Therefore, it's important for people with arthritis to discuss any gastrointestinal symptoms with their healthcare provider, who may
recommend further evaluation for IBD.
What are the symptoms of IBD?
IBD can cause inflammation and damage to the digestive tract. The symptoms of IBD can vary depending on the type of IBD and the
severity of the disease, but some common symptoms include:
- Abdominal pain and cramping
- Diarrhoea, which may be bloody
- Urgent need to have a bowel movement
- Nausea and vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Fatigue
- Anaemia
- Joint pain and inflammation
- Skin problems, such as rashes or ulcers.
It's important to note that not everyone with IBD will experience all of these symptoms, and some people may have symptoms that are
different from those listed above. If you experience any of these symptoms or have concerns about your digestive health, it's important to
talk to your healthcare provider for proper evaluation and diagnosis
What are the causes of IBD?
The exact cause of IBD is unknown, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic, environmental, and immunological factors.
Researchers have identified several genes that are associated with an increased risk of developing IBD, but not everyone with these genes
will develop the condition.
Environmental factors, such as diet, smoking, and infections, may trigger or worsen IBD symptoms.
Additionally, the immune system's response to these triggers can lead to chronic inflammation of the digestive tract, damaging the tissue
and causing symptoms such as diarrhoea, abdominal pain, and weight loss.
How is IBD and arthritis linked?
Arthritis is a condition that causes inflammation and pain in the joints, while inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic inflammation
of the digestive tract.
While these two conditions affect different parts of the body, they can be linked.
In IBD, the inflammation in the digestive tract can produce chemicals that promote inflammation in other parts of the body, including the
joints, leading to arthritis.
Additionally, medications used to treat IBD, like pain relievers, can worsen arthritis symptoms.
Managing both conditions can be challenging, and requires a team approach that considers the relationship between inflammation, joint
health, and digestive health.
What is the treatment for IBD?
There is currently no cure for IBD. The treatment for inflammatory bowel disease
(IBD) depends on the severity of the condition and the individual's symptoms.
Treatment aims to reduce inflammation, manage symptoms, and prevent complications.
Medications are often the first line of treatment and may include anti-inflammatory drugs, immunosuppressants, and biologic therapies that
target specific immune system molecules.
In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove damaged tissue or repair a complication.
Additionally, lifestyle changes, such as changes to diet, stress management, and regular exercise, may also help manage symptoms and
improve overall health.
It is essential to work with a healthcare provider to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses individual needs and goals.
How Arthritis Queensland can help
JOIN OUR FREE
PEER-SUPPORT TELEPHONE SERVICE - ARTHRITIS ASSIST
Talk with a peer-mentor who has Fibromyalgia in our free Arthritis
Assist
service
.png)