What is inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and how is it treated?
IBD encompasses two main conditions: Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. Both are chronic conditions characterized by inflammation of the GI tract, leading to symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, weight loss, and fatigue. Treatment often involves a combination of medication (e.g., anti-inflammatory drugs, immune system suppressors), dietary changes, and sometimes surgery.
