Symptoms
Symptoms depend on the type of IBD, but common symptoms may include:
- Abdominal pain and cramping
- Diarrhea
- Weight loss and loss of appetite
- Bleeding from the intestines
- Ulcers in the intestines
- Inflammation of the rectum
- Draining around the rectum
- Bloating or feeling of fullness
- Gas
- Bloody diarrhea
- Abdominal sounds (gurgling, etc.)
- Nausea and vomiting
- Joint pain
Diagnosis
Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical exam. Tests may include the following:
- Upper GI endoscopy —a thin, lighted tube inserted down the throat to examine the upper part of the intestines
- Colonoscopy —a thin, lighted tube inserted through the rectum and into the colon to examine the lining of the colon
- Barium enema —injection of fluid into the rectum that makes your colon show up on an x-ray so the doctor can see abnormal spots in your colon
- X-ray —a test that uses radiation to take a picture of structures inside the body, especially bones
-
Capsule endoscopy
—a wireless pill sized camera that you swallow
- It takes pictures of the small intestine as it passes through your intestines.
- Blood tests
- Stool culture
Colonoscopy
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright © 2012 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.
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