Common myths about IBD debunked

Stomach cramps, abdominal pain, diarrhoea and loss of appetite can be caused by a variety of medical conditions, which is why it can be difficult to accurately diagnose and treat gut issues like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). — TNS

The lack of awareness about inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) can make it difficult for patients to wrestle fact from fiction.

Here are eight common misconceptions:

Myth #1: IBD is the same as IBS

Fact: IBD involves visible, long-standing inflammation of the gastrointenstinal tract (GI).

It requires specific treatment to induce and maintain long-term remission.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) on the other hand, is a functional disorder i.e. without real inflammation or damage to the GI, although it still can cause troublesome GI symptoms.

Myth #2: IBD is caused by stress and certain foods

Fact: Stress does not cause IBD, but it can exacerbate symptoms.

IBD is an autoimmune condition influenced by genetic and environmental factors.

While specific foods can trigger symptoms, they do not cause IBD.

Diet can play a role in managing symptoms.

Myth #3: A gluten-free diet can cure IBD

Fact: Gluten-free diets benefit those with celiac disease, not IBD.

While certain dietary changes can help manage symptoms, they do not cure IBD.

Myth #4: IBD is contagious

Fact: IBD is not infectious and cannot be transmitted from person to person.

It is also usually not self-limiting and cannot be resolved with antibiotics.

Myth #5: IBD patients can’t lead normal lives

Fact: With proper treatment and lifestyle adjustments, many individuals with IBD lead full, active lives.

Although there is still no cure, more treatments are becoming readily available and able to maintain long-term remission.

Myth #6: All IBD patients require surgery

Fact: Many manage IBD effectively with medication and lifestyle changes; surgery is reserved for specific cases.

Myth #7: IBD is just a mild digestive issue

Fact: IBD is a chronic, potentially serious disease.

If not properly treated, it can lead to serious complications such as intestinal bleeding, strictures, fistulas and even increased risk of colon cancer.

Myth #8: IBD increases the risk of infertility and women with IBD shouldn’t get pregnant

Fact: IBD itself does not usually cause infertility and women with IBD can have healthy pregnancies and babies, especially when the disease is well-controlled before conception.

Dr Khairul Najmi Muhammad Nawawi is a consultant physician, gastroenterologist and hepatologist. For more information, email [e-mail]. The information provided is for educational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice. The Star does not give any warranty on accuracy, completeness, functionality, usefulness or other assurances as to the content appearing in this column. The Star disclaims all responsibility for any losses, damage to property or personal injury suffered directly or indirectly from reliance on such information.