The two main types of IBD are Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. IBD is vastly different to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), although symptoms may be similar.
Main IBD symptoms include diarrhoea lasting several weeks, abdominal pain, passing blood or mucus (slime), bleeding from the bottom, tiredness and losing weight without trying. The cause is unclear, but it's your immune system attacking your bowel, causing inflammation. It's probably linked to a mix of genetic and environmental factors (such as germs, diet, smoking or stress), and affects about one in 123 people in the UK, especially those with a family history.
IBD can start at any age, usually before you're 30. If you have these symptoms, see your GP, who'll examine you, do tests then refer you to a specialist for further investigation and treatment. Everyone is different: some feel mostly well, others have more persistent symptoms.
The overactive immune system can cause other problems, such as swollen joints, mouth ulcers and inflamed eyes. Crohn's can affect all gut layers from mouth to anus. Ulcerative colitis only affects the inner colon layers, causing large bowel inflammation and ulcers, although it can be as serious.
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Patchwork PROJECTS
Easy ideas to show off English paper-piecing techniques
Night train to BERLIN
Germany's exciting and varied capital is now reachable by train from the UK
French FANCY
Raymond Blanc's right-hand man, Benoit Blin's favourite bakes
Are you missing out on BENEFITS?
Here's how to find out what you are eligible for
TRAY bien
All-in-one tray bakes, packed with flavour
We took a grown-up GAP YEAR!
Who says taking time out is just for students?
'I'm obsessed with reality TV!'
THIS WEEK'S COLUMNIST Author and presenter Louise Minchin
What to eat and do for A HEALTHIER GUT
Fix those problems and boost your wellbeing
Picture palaces
In an age of cinema complexes, we celebrate five historic and beautiful picture houses that have stood the test of time
'My diet during Bake Off is cake and alcohol!'
Dame Prue Leith on the popular baking contest