Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis
If you experience digestive problems, our gastrointestinal experts can help to diagnose and treat you
About IBD
Inflammatory bowel disease refers to inflammation of the gut. It includes the conditions ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. Symptoms to be aware of are weight loss and diarrhoea. Whilst anyone can be affected, it usually occurs between the ages of 15 to 40. Your consultant gastroenterologist can discuss treatment options with you.
Need to know
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Symptoms of Inflammatory bowel disease icon plus
Symptoms of IBD include:
- recurring diarrhoea
- loss of appetite and weight loss
- stomach pain and/or cramps
- fatigue and extreme tiredness
- mouth ulcers
- anaemia (loss of red blood cells)
- joint pain
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Diagnosis icon plus
Your consultant will discuss your symptoms with you and help to make a diagnosis. Tests we offer to diagnose IBD include: - Blood and stool tests to assess inflammation and anaemia - An endoscopy to check the inside of your digestive system. Your consultant does this with an endoscope (a long thin tube with a camera), carefully moved through your throat or anus - A range of X-rays to review the abdominal area - Ultrasound scans to check for gall and kidney stones - MRI scans to check soft tissue areas. This is particularly helpful in identifying abscesses and fistulas (abnormal channels linking different bowel parts) -
Potential treatment options icon plus
Your consultant will discuss your treatment options and help to determine the best approach for you. Treatment options might include: - Special medicines to reduce the activity of the immune system - If medicines do not work, surgery may be required to remove or repair bowel damage
Our consultants
From complex surgery to straightforward procedures, we provide exceptional care across our network of hospitals, outpatient centres and specialist clinics.
Our locations
From complex gastric surgery to diagnostic tests and procedures, we provide exceptional gastric care across our network of hospitals, outpatient centres and specialist clinics.
Request an appointment
Our booking teams can help you make an appointment with one of our experienced consultants.
020 7079 4344
This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.