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Dr Usman Javaid
Dr Usman Javaid
Gastroenterologist
Lower Digestive

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) — treatment in Lahore

Also known as: Crohn's Disease · Ulcerative Colitis · UC · Chronic Colitis

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) refers to chronic immune-mediated inflammation of the digestive tract, mainly Crohn's disease (which can affect any part) and ulcerative colitis (limited to the colon).

Dr Usman Javaid
Medically reviewed
Dr Usman Javaid · MPH, FRSPH (UK)
Last reviewed
Evidence-based

Overview

IBD is a lifelong but manageable condition. The goal is remission — minimal symptoms, healed lining, and a full life. We coordinate diagnostics, medication, and follow-up.

Signs & symptoms of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)

If you recognize one or more of these, it may be worth a consultation:

  • Diarrhea, sometimes with blood
  • Cramping abdominal pain
  • Weight loss and fatigue
  • Fever during flares
  • Mouth ulcers, joint or eye symptoms

Causes & risk factors

Several factors can contribute to Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). Identifying yours guides the treatment plan.

  • Autoimmune dysregulation
  • Genetic predisposition
  • Altered gut microbiome
  • Environmental triggers (smoking, NSAIDs, antibiotic exposure in early life)

How Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is diagnosed

We order tests selectively — only what changes the plan.

  • Colonoscopy with biopsies
  • Fecal calprotectin
  • CT or MR enterography
  • Blood markers (CRP, ESR, CBC)

Treatment options

Treatment for Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is personalized — the right plan depends on your symptoms, test results, and life situation.

  1. 1 5-ASA (mesalamine) for mild ulcerative colitis
  2. 2 Corticosteroids for acute flares (short-term only)
  3. 3 Immunomodulators (azathioprine, methotrexate)
  4. 4 Biologics (anti-TNF, vedolizumab, ustekinumab)
  5. 5 Surgery for complications or refractory disease
Prognosis & outlook

IBD is lifelong but well-controlled in most patients with modern therapy. The goal is durable remission with mucosal healing — many patients live entirely normal lives.

Can Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) be prevented?

Simple, evidence-based steps that reduce your risk.

  • No proven prevention, but smoking cessation reduces Crohn's risk
  • Early diagnosis prevents complications

When should you see a doctor about Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)?

Reach out without delay if you notice any of the following.

  • Bloody diarrhea
  • Persistent abdominal pain
  • Weight loss and fatigue
  • Family history of IBD with new symptoms
  • Failure to thrive in adolescents

Frequently asked questions about Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)

Is IBD the same as IBS? +

No. IBD is a structural inflammatory disease visible on colonoscopy with biopsy. IBS is a functional disorder with normal-appearing bowel. The names sound similar but they are very different conditions.

Will I need surgery? +

Most patients with IBD never need surgery. About 70% of Crohn's patients eventually undergo surgery for strictures, fistulas, or complications. In ulcerative colitis, surgery is reserved for severe refractory disease and can be curative.

Can I have children with IBD? +

Yes — fertility and pregnancy outcomes are excellent when IBD is in remission at conception. We plan pregnancies with patients and adjust medication safely.

What is the role of diet in IBD? +

Diet does not cause IBD and no single diet treats it. During flares, low-residue eating helps; in remission, a varied Mediterranean-style diet is the most evidence-supported pattern.

Dr Usman Javaid
Author & medical reviewer

Dr Usman Javaid

Gastroenterology & Medicine Diplomat · DIP (Gastro) UK · DIP (Hepatology) UK · DIP (Diabetes) UK · MCPS FM-TC · MPH · FRSPH (UK) · FRCP (Colombo) · Organ Transplant Advisor · CHPE (NUMS) · Preventive Medicine Specialist · Owner of Javaid Poly Clinic.

This page was medically reviewed by Dr Usman Javaid on . Content is updated when new evidence or guidelines emerge.

Medical disclaimer: This page is for educational purposes and does not replace medical consultation. If you have symptoms of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) or any other condition, please book a consultation. In emergencies, call 1122 or visit your nearest emergency department.

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