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Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Most Popular Articles

These articles are the most popular over the last month.
Green Stool
Stool that is green in color is not necessarily a cause for alarm because it could be caused by food or supplements.
Mucus in the Stool
Stool normally contains a small amount of mucus, but passing stools with visible amounts of mucus can be from a variety of causes. When should you call your doctor when you see mucus in your stool?
Black Stool
Black, tarry stools with a foul odor are called “melena,” and can be the result of eating certain foods, taking iron supplements, or possibly from internal bleeding.
Normal Bowel Movements
Many people do not know what a normal bowel movement is. There are gradations of normal, and every person is going to have different bowel habits.
Side Effects - Prednisone
A list of the side effects of Prednisone, a coticosteroid medication that is used in the treatment of Inflammatory Bowel Disease.
Causes of Red, Black Stool
There are several reasons why stool can appear black or red in color. One reason is blood, with causes both common and serious, but the others may surprise you.
Unusual Stool Colors
An unusual color to a bowel movement could be caused by a food or dietary supplement--but it could also be a symptom of a serious problem.
Colonoscopy Prep
Worried about having a colonoscopy? Most people think the preparation is worse than the actual test. Learn about the most frequently used preparations for this test.
Are Your Pants Too Tight?
Does your closet consist mostly of elastic waistbands? Then you might need to find out what's causing your abdominal bloating and how to treat it.
Signs and Symptoms of IBD
The two forms of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)--Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis--have several signs and symptoms in common, but they are very different conditions.
Pale or Clay-Colored Stool
Also known as acholic stools, stools that are pale or clay-colored may be caused by a problem in the biliary system.
White Blood Cell (WBC) Count
A description or the normal range of a white blood cell (WBC) count test and why a physician might order one.
What is a Fistula?
Information about symptoms, treatment, and diagnosis of those pernicious fistulas that plague people with Crohn's Disease.
Bentyl FAQ
Answers to frequently asked questions about Bentyl (dicyclomine), a drug used to treat Irritable Bowel Syndrome, including dosage and other medical conditions which could contraindicate its use.
Prednisone: The Drug We Love T
How prednisone works in treating IBD, what are its side effects, and how they can be lessened.
Causes of Orange Stool
There are several common and benign reasons for passing orange stools, but if the problem is chronic and can not be attributed to diet, it should be investigated by a physician.
Portable Toilets
The purchase of a portable toilet has been considered by many people with IBD who are frustrated with their inability to go very far from home.
Steroid-Induced Osteoporosis
Prednisone and other steroids may be beneficial for many inflammatory conditions, but they may also cause serious and permanent side effects such as osteoporosis, cataracts, and glaucoma.
Red Blood Cell (RBC) Count
A description of the normal range of a red blood cell (RBC) count test and why a physician might order one.
Facts About Vitamin D
Vitamin D, calciferol, is a fat-soluble vitamin. It is found in food, but also can be made in your body after exposure to ultraviolet rays from the sun.
Hemoglobin Level Test
A description of the normal range of hemoglobin level test and why a physician might order one.
Side Effects - Flagyl
A list of the side effects of Flagyl (Metronidazole), a medication that is used in the treatment of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD).
Antibiotics Making You Sick?
Taking a course of antibiotics for an infection might cause antibiotic-associated diarrhea, a common condition that is easily treated.
Digestive Basics - Diarrhea
A look at the symptoms of diarrhea, which are more than just an urgent need to use a restroom.
Prednisone FAQ
Answers to frequently asked questions about prednisone (a corticosteroid used to treat inflammatory bowel disease), including dosage, use during pregnancy, and other medical conditions which could contraindicate its use.
Flagl FAQ
Answers to frequently asked questions about the antibiotic Flagyl (Metronidazole) including side effects, drug interactions and use during pregnancy.
Ciprofloxacin FAQ
Answers to frequently asked questions about the antibiotic Cipro (Ciprofloxacin) including who should not take this drug, and what to do if a dose is missed.
How to Use a Sitz Bath
A sitz bath is a plastic tub that fits over the toilet and can be filled with water. Sitting in the warm water for 15 to 20 minutes can provide relief from the discomfort from hemorrhoids, fistulas, anal fissures, or an episiotomy.
Always Room for Jell-O!
Descriptions of clear liquid, full liquid, lactose free, and low fiber diets that physicians prescribe for inflammatory bowel disease or after abdominal surgery. Find out what foods are on them, and when they're used.
What Is IBD?
An overview of the two conditions collectively known as inflammatory bowel disease--Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis--including diagnosis, symptoms, and treatment.
Bowel Obstructions
Bowel obstructions can occur to just about anyone, but they are the most common complication of Crohn's disease. Learn about the symptoms of a bowel obstruction, as well as how it may be diagnosed and treated.
The Candida Connection
The symptoms of a yeast overgrowth in the intestine, or candidiasis, can mimic other problems including, as some doctors suggest, Irritable Bowel Syndrome.
Stages of Colorectal Cancer
A description of the stages of colon and rectal cancer, including treatments and five-year survival rates at each stage.
Ulcerative Colitis FAQ
A complete frequently asked questions about ulcerative colitis, one form of inflammatory bowel disease. Part 1 includes intestinal and extra-intestinal symptoms.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome 101
The basics of irritable bowel syndrome, including what causes it, how it's treated, and what can make it worse.
Eating Your Way Through IBS
There is no diet for everyone who has irritable bowel syndrome, but there are some eating guidelines that may help alleviate the symptoms.
Librax FAQ
Answers to frequently asked questions about Librax (chlordiazepoxide clidinium), a drug used to treat Irritable Bowel Syndrome, including dosage and other medical conditions which could contraindicate its use.
Weight Gain From Prednisone
Weight gain during prednisone therapy is common. When the dosage of prednisone is below 10mg a day, this side effect and others start to resolve. However, you may still need to use a diet and fitness plan to lose those extra pounds.
Gas in the Digestive Tract
Many people think they have too much gas, even though gas in the digestive tract is a common problem.
Crohn's Disease FAQ - Part 1
Frequently asked questions about Crohn's disease including symptoms, complications, causes and treatments.
Avoid IBS Trigger Foods
There is no one diet for all people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). There are, however, several common trigger foods that may set off symptoms.
Coupons for Prescription Drugs
Did you know that pharmaceutical companies routinely offer money saving coupons for their prescription drugs? Learn why pharmaceutical companies are offering discounts for prescription drugs, and where you can get coupons for the drugs you take.
Effects of Drinking Alcohol
Does having the occasional drink at parties worsen the symptoms of IBS or IBD? The answer may surprise you.
Facts About Iron
Iron is an essential mineral and an important component of proteins involved in oxygen transport and metabolism.
Red or Maroon Stool
Red or maroon colored stools caused by bleeding are known as "hematochezia." Hematochezia may be caused by hemorrhoids, anal fissures, colon polyps or colon cancer, diverticular bleeding or inflammatory bowel disease.
Mercaptopurine,Purinethol, 6MP
Reference material for Mercaptopurine (also called Purinethol or 6-MP), an immunosuppresive medication that is used in the treatment of Inflammatory Bowel Disease."
Lactose Intolerance
Many people experience symptoms of gas, bloating, and diarrhea after eating dairy products. It isn't necessarially a milk allergy--it could be lactose intolerance.
Differences Between UC and CD
The two primary forms of IBD, Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, share many symptoms, but are treated very differently medically and surgically. Read about the many differences between these two conditions.
Hemorrhoids FAQ
Hemorrhoids are enlarged, bulging blood vessels in and about the anus and lower rectum. Millions of Americans suffer from hemorrhoids in silence, but newer treatments make some types of hemorrhoid removal much less painful.
Colonoscopy Risks
While a colonoscopy is generally a very safe diagnostic procedure, there is still a low amount of risk. Learn about the potential complications that can occur during a colonoscopy.
Gastroenterologist
A gastroenterologist is an internal medicine physician that specializes in the treatment of disorders of the gastrointestinal tract. How much training do these doctors have, and what conditions do they treat?
The SCD
Many people with inflammatory bowel disease and other gastrointestinal disorders have considered trying The Specific Carbohydrate Diet. Is the diet helpful for inflammatory conditions such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis?
Symptoms and Tests for Colon C
A description of the symptoms of colon and rectal cancer, as well as the tests used for diagnosis.
Comedies for Sick Days
Your guide offers her picks for the Top 10 movies to watch when you're home sick on the living room couch.
Colostomy Surgery
Colostomy surgery is, understandably, a frightening prospect for most people. But it can often dramatically improve a person's quality-of-life.
Bleeding in Digestive Tract
Information about the possible causes of bleeding in the intestinal tract, as well as how it's diagnosed and treated.
Vitamin D and Zinc
There are several factors which contribute to vitamin and mineral deficiencies in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) including medications, symptoms, and dietary considerations.
GI Effects of Chemotherapy
Some side effects of chemotherapy includ nausea, vomiting, constipation, and diarrhea. The good news is, all these problems are treatable with some help from your doctor and some tips you can follow at home.
Herbs and Supplements for UC
For people whose ulcerative colitis does not respond to prescription drugs, there are some dietary changes and nutritional supplements that may help.
Side Effects - Azathioprine
A list of the side effects of Azathioprine (also called Imuran), a medication that is used in the treatment of Inflammatory Bowel Disease.
Before You Buy Fiber
Fiber supplements may be prescribed for inflammatory bowel disorder from time to time. How do you choose which is right for you?
Treating IBS Abdominal Pain
Abdominal pain is a common symptom of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Learn how IBS pain is treated through prescription drugs such as antispasmotics and antidepressants and alternative therapies such as peppermint.
Change an Ostomy Bag
Changing your ostomy bag isn't as hard as it may seem! Here is a list of steps and some tips to changing your appliance without worry.
Diet After J-Pouch Surgery
What is a normal diet for a person who has had j-pouch surgery? Find out which foods can cause diarrhea or skin irritation and which foods may cause bowel obstructions.
Your Digestive System
Digestion is important to break food into a form the body can use for energy.
Side Effects - Infliximab
A list of the side effects of Infliximab (also called Remicade), a medication that is used in the treatment of Crohn's Disease.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome FA...
Questions--and answers--to the most frequently asked questions about symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and diet for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.
Is IBD fatal?
Can you die from IBD? Is inflammatory bowel disease fatal? IBD, Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, are chronic gastrointestinal conditions, but can they kill you?
Asacol FAQ
Answers to frequently asked questions about Asacol, also called Mesalamine, including dosage and other medical conditions which could contraindicate its use.
Prednisone Side Effects
Side effects from the steroid drug prednisone are common. At what dosage are side effects common, and will they reverse once the prednisone is stopped?
Smoking, Nicotine, and IBD
Cigarette smoke and nicotine have different effects on the symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease (ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease).
Complete Blood Cell Count
A description of what tests are included in a complete blood cell (CBC) count test that may be ordered by your physician.
Digestive Basics - UC
A description of the causes, symptoms, treatments, diagnosis, and risk of colon cancer for ulcerative colitis patients.
Dealing With IBS-Diarrhea
Most people with IBS have intermittent bouts of diarrhea. Learn how to prevent it in the first place, and deal with it when it does happen.
10 Tips for Surgery Recovery
Abdominal surgery is common for people who have inflammatory bowel disease. Use these tips for recovering safely and quickly from abdominal surgery.
J-Pouch Surgery for UC
A j-pouch, or ileal pouch reconstruction, is a surgery that is used for ulcerative colitis patients, and is usually completed in two steps.
Nutrition and Eating at School
For students with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), a good cafeteria plays a part in staying healthy at college. Learn more about nutrition and inflammatory bowel disease.
The IBS-FMS Connection
As many as 60% of IBS patients suffer from fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) and as many as 70% of FMS patients report symptoms of IBS. Could there be a common cause for the two conditions?
The Rome Criteria for IBS
At the 13th International Congress of Gastroenterology in a group of physicians defined criteria - known as the "Rome Criteria," to more accurately diagnose IBS.
Special Diet for IBD?
Food does not cause inflammatory bowel disease. However, during a flare-up, certain foods can exacerbate symptoms. Should people with Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis follow a special diet?
Digestive Basics - Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels in and around the anus and lower rectum.
Symptoms of IBS and IBD
IBS and IBD have similar symptoms, so how do we tell the difference between them?
Colon Cancer:Risks, Prevention
Studies have shown that along with regular screening, there are changes you can make to your lifestyle that may decrease your risk of developing colon cancer.
Fecal Occult Blood Test
Information about the fecal occult blood test, including what it is, what it's used for, preparation, how it's done, and the risks involved.
IBS in Children
Children can also have Irritable Bowel Syndrome, and they require different treatment for their symptoms than adults.
Side Effects - Cyclosporin
A list of the side effects of Cyclosporin (also called Cyclosporin-A), a medication that is used in the treatment of Inflammatory Bowel Disease.
Arthritis and IBD
Arthritis is the most common extraintestinal complication of inflammatory bowel disease, affecting an estimated 25% of all IBD patients.
Colon & Rectal Cancer
Information about detection, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of colon and rectal cancer.
IBD and Colon Cancer Risk
People with ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease are at greater risk for colon cancer than the general population. Do you know what your risk is?
After-Surgery Workouts
Learn how to tighten up your abdominal muscles after having major surgery.
Use an Enema
An enema may be used for several purposes, including in preparation for a colonoscopy, surgery, giving birth, or for constipation or fecal impaction.
Barium Enema
Information about a barium enema, including what it is, what it's used for, preparation, how it's done, and the risks involved.
Digestive Basics-Constipation
Information about constipation including who gets it and why, how it's diagnosed and treated, and some helpful tips to keep it from happening.
Lomotil FAQ
Answers to frequently asked questions about Lomotil, an anti-diarrheal, including dosage and other medical conditions which could contraindicate its use.
What is IBS?
Find out exactly what Irritable Bowel Syndrome is, and even more importantly, what it is not.
Myths About IBS
There are many myths that surround irritable bowel syndrome. Learn the truth about some of things you may have heard.
IBS, IBD, and PMS
Studies have shown that women with IBS and IBD see an increase in symptoms in the days before and during their menstrual period.
Mucus From a Rectal Stump
I have a colostomy and there is some discharge from my rectum. Is this normal, and what can I do about leaks?
FAQ - Pregnancy and IBD
Answers to questions about pregnancy and inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis) such as fertility and the safety of certain drugs.
Side Effects - Oral Mesalamine
A list of the side effects of oral Mesalamine (also called Asacol, Pentasa, Mesasal, or Salofalk), a medication that is used in the treatment of Inflammatory Bowel Disease.
Herb - Peppermint
Peppermint may help reduce spasms in the colon and lessen symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.
Why Do Beans Cause Gas?
Beans, or legumes, and other vegetables tend to cause intestinal gas. Learn why this happens and how you can prevent gas.
Candidiasis FAQ
There are many causes of yeast overgrowth, or candidiasis. Often, two more more causes are responsible for the condition.
Symptoms of Colon Cancer
During Colon Cancer Awareness month, read a new colon cancer fact every day.
NSAIDs and Peptic Ulcers
Most peptic ulcers are caused by the bacterium Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), but some are caused by prolonged use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), or other pain relievers.
Toxic Megacolon
Toxic megacolon is a rare, but potentially lethal, complication of severe inflammatory bowel disease. Learn why this condition may occur and how it is treated.
Keep a Food Diary
Keeping a food diary isn't as hard as you may think. Follow some simple steps to help you and your doctor find out what foods may be giving you trouble.
Guess Who Has IBD?
Actors, sports heroes, U.S. Presidents, and even Kings have Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD).
Things to Know About Colitis
There's so much to learn about ulcerative colitis, it can sometimes feel like you'll never be able to take it all in. In a nutshell, here are 10 things that you should know about ulcerative colitis--for your health, or that of someone you love.
Colonoscopy: The Inside Story
What to expect from the colonoscopy test which is commonly used to diagnose diseases and conditions in the colon.
Dealing With Constipation
When many people think of IBS, they think of diarrhea is the main symptom. However, some people with IBS experience constipation more often than diarrhea. Can constipation be prevented, and when it does occur, how can it be treated?
Diverticular Disease
An introduction to diverticular disease, which affects half of all Americans age 60 to 80, and almost everyone over 80.
Sex and IBD
You're not alone; inflammatory bowel disease can lead to a lack of sex drive, but you don't have to accept this side effect: You can help yourself.
How IBD is Diagnosed
When a patient sees the doctor with symptoms that may point to inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), a series of tests are used to make the diagnosis. These tests can range from simple blood tests, to more invasive endoscopic procedures such as colonoscopy.
Evening Primrose Oil for IBS
Evening Primrose Oil is known to reduce inflammation and aid in digestion, and may be helpful for people with irritable bowel syndrome or women with pre-menstrual syndrome.
Our Cat Has IBD
The human form of IBD in the form of ulcerative colitis has affected our family significantly. Now, the smallest, and furriest, member has developed a feline variety of IBD.
Pyoderma Gangrenosum
Skin disorders are a fairly common problem, and may affect up to 25% of people who suffer from IBD. Skin disorders that may occur in IBD include pyoderma gangrenosum and erythema nodosum.
Vitamins and Supplements for Crohn's Disease
For people with Crohn's Disease some supplements may help with inflammation and vitamin deficiencies.
NSAIDs and IBD
It's now known that certain pain medications known as non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs) can have a serious and harmful effect on people with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
Side Effects - Librax
A list of the side effects of Librax, a medication that is used in the treatment of Irritable Bowel Syndrome.
Bathroom Books
Admit it - you occasionally take a book into the bathroom with you, so why not read a good one?
Treatments for IBD
Most treatments for inflammatory bowel disease are either medical or surgical. Several drugs are used in treating both Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, and surgery is typically only used after all medical options have failed.
Diagnositc Tests - Colonoscopy
What is a colonoscopy? Get information about colonscopies, including what a colonoscopy is used for, how to prepare for one, how it's done, and the risks involved.
Surgery for IBD
A description of the differences between ileostomy, colostomy, and ileoanal reservoir surgery which may be performed on patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (Crohn's Disease or Ulcerative Colitis).
Surgery for Colon Cancer
The most common treatment for colon cancer is surgery to remove the cancerous tissue.
Ginger
Ginger has been used to treat nausea and other stomach compaints for thousands of years. Does ginger really work as a digestive aid? Is it safe for everyone to take?
IBD Has Gone to The Dogs
Cats and dogs can develop inflammatory bowel disease, and often have many of the same symptoms as humans.
What Smoking Does to Your Guts
We all know that cigarette smoking can cause lung cancer and emphysema. But did you know that cigarette smoking affects all parts of the body, including the digestive system?
Glossary Definition - Borborygmi
A definition of the term 'Borborygmi'.
My Life as a J-poucher
A j-pouch, or ileal pouch reconstruction, is a surgery that is used to treat ulcerative colitis patients and is usually completed in two steps.
Entocort EC FAQ
Answers to frequently asked questions about Entocort EC (budenoside) including dosage and other medical conditions which could contraindicate its use.
Diagnostic Test - ERCP
Information about Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), including what it is, what it's used for, preparation, how it's done, and the risks involved.
Herbs and Supplements for IBS
Herbs and supplements are becoming increasingly popular with people who have irritable bowel syndrome. Learn about how peppermint oil, psyllium, and acidophilus are used to treat IBS.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) - QuickTips
An index of QuickTips for the Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) guide site.
Digestive Basics - GERD
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a digestive disorder that affects the lower esophageal sphincter (LES)--the muscle connecting the esophagus with the stomach.
Sitz Bath
A definition of the term 'Sitz Bath.'
Methotrexate (Rheumatrex ) FAQ
Answers to frequently asked questions about the drug Methotrexate (Rheumatrex) including side effects, drug interactions and use during pregnancy.
Granuloma
A definition of the term 'Granuloma.'
Do You Have Tired Blood?
People with intestinal diseases such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, who do not absorb iron, vitamin B12 and folic acid from food may develop anemia.
Aloe Vera
Aloe is a succulent plant that has been used for medicinal purposes since the time of the Ancient Egyptians. Aloe is a known anti-inflammatory and may even have antibacterial and antifungal properties.
Glossary - Crohn's Disease
A definition of the form of Inflammatory Bowel Disease known as 'Crohn's Disease.'
Azulfadine (Sulfasalazine) ...
Frequently asked questions about azulfadine (sulfasalazine) including side effects, drug interactions, use during pregnancy, and sexual side effects.
Cirrhosis of the Liver
Information about the causes, symptoms, complications, diagnosis and treatment of cirrhosis of the liver.
Upper GI Series
Information about upper GI series, including what it is, what it's used for, preparation, and how it's done.
IBD Drug Pipeline
Learn about drugs that are currently being developed to treat Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.
Harmful Effects of Medicine: The Intestine
Taking medications can have several ill effects on the intestines, including constipation and diarrhea.
Levsin Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to frequently asked questions about the antibiotic Levsin (Hyoscyamine) including who should not take this drug, and what to do if a dose is missed.
Fish Oil Supplements for IBD
Complementary and alternative therapies are frequently used by people with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Could a fish oil supplement which contains omega-3 fatty acids be helpful to people with IBD?
Facts About Vitamin A and Carotenoids
The tables on this page suggest dietary sources of vitamin A and provitamin A carotenoids. Liver, eggs and whole milk are good animal sources of vitamin A, and many orange fruits and green vegetables are good sources of provitamin A carotenoids.
Side Effects - Sulfasalazine
A list of the side effects of Sulfasalazine (also called Azulfadine), a medication that is used in the treatment of Inflammatory Bowel Disease.

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