We get back to the basics of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), including the differences between Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, and how IBD is different than irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). IBDologist Dr Katie Dunleavy explains common symptoms, the diagnostic process, and treatment options, focusing on patient advocacy, regular screenings, and open communication with physicians and other healthcare providers. Also included is the importance of diet, stress management, second opinions, and multidisciplinary care in managing IBD. If you or your loved one lives with IBD, you will learn something new, and if there's someone in your life who could use help in understanding IBD, this is the episode to share with them. Episode transcript and more information at: https://bit.ly/AIBD183 Topics discussed on this episode:

• Definition and overview of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
• Differences between IBD and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Types of IBD: Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, indeterminate colitis, and microscopic colitis
• Common symptoms associated with IBD
• Diagnostic processes and tests for IBD
• Treatment options and the importance of personalized care
• Role of diet and lifestyle changes in managing IBD
• Importance of mental health and stress management in IBD care
• Ongoing monitoring and screening for colorectal cancer in IBD patients
• Advocacy for patient-centered care and the need for multidisciplinary approaches in IBD management

More information on the topics discussed:

• Understanding Toxic Megacolon: https://www.verywellhealth.com/toxic-megacolon-1943111
• How Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) Is Diagnosed: https://www.verywellhealth.com/ibd-diagnosis-1942637
• IBD vs. IBS: Understanding the Differences: https://www.verywellhealth.com/ibd-vs-ibs-11714235
• Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) Medications & Treatment: https://www.verywellhealth.com/comparing-biologic-medications-for-ibd-4116127
• Understanding Indeterminate Colitis: https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-is-indeterminate-colitis-4142657
• Types of Colitis: Everything You Should Know: https://www.verywellhealth.com/types-of-colitis-5198817

Find Katie Dunleavy, MB, BCh, BAO at:

• Web: Massachusetts General Hospital
• Twitter/X: @dunleavy_katie
• Research Gate: Katie Dunleavy, MB, BCh, BAO

Find Amber J Tresca at:

• AboutIBD.com: About IBD
• Verywell: Verywell Health
• Facebook: @aboutIBD
• Twitter: @aboutIBD
• Pinterest: @aboutibd
• Instagram: @about_IBD
• YouTube: @AboutIBD
• Threads: @about_IBD
• Bluesky: @aboutibd.bsky.social

Find Mac Cooney (mix, sound design, and theme music) at:

• Facebook: @maccooneycomposer
• Instagram: @maccooneycomposer
• Web: Cooney Studio
• YouTube: @MacCooneyComposer
• Theme music, IBD Dance Party, is from ©Cooney Studio