IBD complications
Complications caused by inflammation of the digestive system
If you're experiencing stomach issues and other problems due to inflammatory bowel disease, HCA UK's experts can help
About
Need to know
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Symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease and its complications icon plus
IBD is believed to be caused by a combination of factors including genetics and your immune system. The most common symptoms of Crohn’s disease are:
- Diarrhoea
- Stomach pains or cramps
- Blood in stools (poo)
- Tiredness
- Weight loss
The most common symptoms of ulcerative colitis are:
- Recurring diarrhoea which may include blood, mucus or pus
- Stomach pains
- Feeling the need to empty your bowels often
You may also feel very tired, lose your appetite and experience weight loss.
Complications tend to occur when the inflammation in the intestine is severe, widespread and chronic (long-term). -
Diagnosis icon plus
Your GP or consultant will discuss your symptoms with you. Tests they recommend may include:
- blood tests
- stool (poo) tests
- colonoscopy. This involves a flexible tube (endoscope) with a camera to spot any inflammation in the bowel.
- flexible sigmoidoscopy. This is similar to a colonoscopy but focuses on the lower part of your intestines
- gastroscopy. This is where your oesophagus (food pipe) is examined using an endoscope.
- capsule endoscopy. This involves swallowing a small pill containing a tiny camera, light and transmitter to get images of your small bowel
- biopsy. This is the removal of bowel tissue for analysis
- MRI or CT scan
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Potential treatment options icon plus
There is no cure for IBD but treatment can help control or reduce the symptoms. Treatment options depend on the severity of your symptoms and if you are suffering from any related complications.
Medications available include:
- steroids (to reduce inflammation)
- immunosuppressants (to lower activity in your immune system)
- biological medications (used when other treatments haven't worked)
Some people may require surgery. There is a range of procedures available depending on your condition and if you have any complications. If it is recommended that you have surgery, you will be referred to a specialist surgeon with experience treating IBD.
Types of IBD complications
Fistulas
Strictures
Perforation (hole) in the intestine
Intestinal failure
Toxic megacolon
Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC)
Bowel cancer
Osteoporosis
Our consultants
Our facilities
From complex surgery to straightforward procedures, we provide exceptional care across our network of hospitals, outpatient centres and specialist clinics.
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The Wellington Hospital
Wellington Place
St John's Wood
London NW8 9LE
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The Harley Street Clinic
35 Weymouth Street
London W1G 8BJ
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The Princess Grace Hospital
42-52 Nottingham Place
London W1U 5NY
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The Lister Hospital
Chelsea Bridge Road
London
SW1W 8RH
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The Portland Hospital
205 - 209 Great Portland Street
London W1W 5AH
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London Bridge Hospital
27 Tooley Street
London
SE1 2PR
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London Digestive Health
2nd Floor
41 Welbeck Street
London W1G 8DU
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London Digestive Surgery
41 Welbeck Street
London
W1G 8DU
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London Digestive Centre
41 Welbeck Street
London
W1G 8DU
Book an appointment
Our team can help with any enquiries or you can make an appointment with one of our experienced consultants.
Call us today
020 7079 4344