Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a term that describes disorders involving long-standing inflammation of tissues in the digestive tract. The two most common forms of IBD are Crohns disease and ulcerative colitis. Crohns disease is characterized by inflammation of the lining of the digestive tract, which often can involve the deeper layers of the digestive tract, while ulcerative colitis involves inflammation and sores (ulcers) along the lining of the large intestine (colon) and rectum. Both conditions usually cause diarrhea, rectal bleeding, abdominal pain, fatigue, and weight loss.

The exact cause of IBD is unknown, but it is believed to be the result of a weakened immune system. Possible causes include an immune system response to environmental triggers, such as a virus or bacteria, which causes inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, and a genetic component, as someone with a family history of IBD is more likely to develop this inappropriate immune response.

IBD is diagnosed through a combination of endoscopy or colonoscopy and imaging studies, such as contrast radiography, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT), stool samples, and blood tests. Treatment for IBD varies depending on the particular type and symptoms, but medications can help control inflammation so that symptoms are minimized or eliminated.

In summary, IBD is a term used to describe disorders that cause chronic inflammation of the g...