Navigating Life with IBD: A Patient-Centered Approach

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) refers to ongoing inflammation in the digestive tract. Understanding the condition and learning practical management strategies can help you maintain your quality of life. This article explains key aspects of IBD management, including recognising symptoms and making daily lifestyle adjustments.

Understanding IBD

IBD is an umbrella term that primarily includes two main conditions: Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Both involve chronic inflammation, but they affect different parts of the digestive system.

Crohn’s disease: Can affect any part of the digestive tract from mouth to bottom, often appearing in patches with healthy tissue between inflamed areas

Ulcerative colitis: Specifically affects the large intestine (colon) and rectum, causing continuous inflammation along the intestinal lining

Autoimmune response: Occurs when the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy digestive tissue, leading to persistent inflammation

Multiple factors: Genetics and environmental triggers may contribute to IBD development.

Symptoms of IBD

IBD symptoms can vary significantly between individuals and may change over time.  Recognising your symptom patterns allows for earlier intervention during flare-ups.

Digestive symptoms: Include persistent diarrhoea, abdominal pain, cramping, and changes in bowel movements that last several weeks

Systemic symptoms: Such as unexplained weight loss, fatigue, and loss of appetite often accompany digestive issues

Blood or mucus in stools: May indicate active inflammation and should prompt discussion with your healthcare team

Extra-intestinal symptoms: Can affect joints, skin, eyes, or liver, showing that IBD impacts more than just the digestive system

IBD Treatment in Singapore

Medical (Non-Surgical) Management

Most people with IBD can manage their condition with medication, which helps reduce inflammation, relieve symptoms, and maintain long-term remission.

• Anti-inflammatory Medications help reduce swelling and irritation in the digestive tract, especially during flare-ups.
  
• Immune System Suppressors help calm the overactive immune response that drives inflammation in IBD.
  
• Biologic Therapies are advanced medications that target specific parts of the immune system to control inflammation, often recommended for moderate to severe cases.
  
• Other Medications, such as antibiotics or pain relievers, may be used to treat specific complications like infections or to manage discomfort. Always speak to your doctor before starting or changing any medications.

Surgical Treatment for IBD in Singapore

Surgery may be necessary if medications do not control symptoms effectively, or if complications develop. The type of surgery recommended depends on whether you have Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, and the severity of your condition.

Common reasons for surgery include:

• Persistent symptoms that do not improve with medication
  
• Bowel blockages or narrowing (strictures)
  
• Fistulas or abscesses, especially in Crohn’s disease
  
• Severe inflammation or bleeding
  
• Cancer or pre-cancerous changes in the bowel

Surgical options may include:

• Removing the affected portion of the intestine (bowel resection)
  
• Widening narrowed areas without removing bowel (strictureplasty)
  
• Treating fistulas with procedures to close abnormal tunnels
  
• Removing the colon and rectum (proctocolectomy), sometimes followed by the creation of an internal pouch to allow more natural bowel function

Managing IBD Flare-ups and Lifestyle Adjustments

During an IBD flare-up, symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhoea, and fatigue can worsen. Recognising these early and following your doctor’s treatment plan is key to reducing their severity and duration. You should not make changes to your medications without medical advice.

Simple daily habits can also help support long-term symptom control. Eating a balanced diet, avoiding trigger foods when necessary, getting enough rest, and staying active with light exercise can improve your overall wellbeing. Stress management and regular medical reviews are also important in helping to maintain stable periods and reduce the likelihood of flare-ups.

When to See a Colorectal Surgeon in Singapore

Knowing when to seek specialist care can help prevent minor IBD issues from becoming more serious. A qualified colorectal surgeon in Singapore can assess your condition, manage complications, and guide you through appropriate treatment options when needed.

Situations that require prompt medical attention include:

• Worsening symptoms: Increased abdominal pain, blood in stools, diarrhoea, or fever may indicate an IBD flare-up or complication that requires evaluation.
  
• New or unusual symptoms: Any symptoms that do not fit your typical pattern, such as weight loss, severe fatigue, or persistent bloating, should be discussed with your colorectal surgeon or IBD specialist.
  
• Medication concerns: If you experience side effects or have questions about changes to your treatment, seek medical advice rather than adjusting medications yourself.
  
• Routine monitoring: Regular follow-ups, blood tests, and scans help track disease activity, assess treatment effectiveness, and detect potential complications early.

Conclusion

Living with IBD requires ongoing attention to your body’s signals and a clear understanding of how to manage the condition. By recognising symptom patterns and following the recommended treatment plan, many people can effectively control IBD and continue with daily life.

If you are experiencing persistent digestive symptoms or need advice on managing IBD, schedule a consultation with our colorectal surgeon in Singapore to receive personalised guidance and treatment options.