What is Inflammatory Bowel Disease?

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) encompasses chronic conditions that cause inflammation in the digestive tract, primarily Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. These disorders arise from an abnormal immune response, leading the body to attack its own intestinal tissues. IBD affects over one million Americans and can result in symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, fatigue, and unintended weight loss. If left untreated, IBD can lead to severe complications, including malnutrition, bowel obstructions, and increased risk of colon cancer.

While IBD is a lifelong condition without a known cure, effective management is possible. With the guidance of a skilled colorectal specialist, symptoms can be controlled, and the disease can even enter periods of remission. Early diagnosis and personalized treatment plans are crucial in preventing long-term damage and improving quality of life for individuals affected by IBD.

How is IBD Diagnosed?

IBD is diagnosed through a combination of clinical evaluation, medical history, and diagnostic tests. After discussing your symptoms and conducting a physical exam, your doctor may recommend tests such as blood work to check for signs of inflammation or anemia, stool samples to rule out infections, and imaging tests like X-rays or CT scans to assess the digestive tract.

The definitive diagnosis often involves a procedure called a colonoscopy, where a flexible tube with a camera is used to view the inside of the colon and take biopsies for further analysis. Endoscopy may also be used if the disease affects areas higher in the digestive tract. These tests help confirm the diagnosis and determine the extent of the disease.

IBD vs. IBS

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) are often mistaken for one another because of the similarity in their names and the overlap in some symptoms. However, they are fundamentally different conditions that require distinct approaches to diagnosis and treatment.

Understanding the difference between these two conditions is crucial, as it helps ensure that the correct treatment plan is put in place. While both conditions can affect quality of life, IBD often requires more intensive treatment and monitoring due to its potential for serious complications.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a functional gastrointestinal disorder that affects how the gut functions, without causing inflammation or tissue damage. It is not a disease or chronic condition but rather a collection of symptoms, including cramping, bloating, abdominal pain, and changes in bowel movements such as diarrhea or constipation.

IBS may be triggered by factors like food poisoning, infection, or stress, but it does not cause the lasting damage seen in conditions like IBD. As a non-pathological disorder, IBS typically does not lead to severe complications or long-term health issues.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease

While both IBD and IBS can cause discomfort in the digestive system, the key difference lies in the underlying causes and the severity of the conditions. IBD refers to a group of chronic inflammatory conditions, such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, which involve actual inflammation and damage to the digestive tract.

The symptoms of IBD can range from discomfort and pain to more severe complications, such as anal fistulas and malnutrition. Due to the ongoing inflammation, IBD can lead to long-term health issues, including an increased risk of serious complications if left untreated.

Specific IBD Conditions

Inflammatory bowel disease encompasses two primary conditions: Ulcerative Colitis and Crohn’s Disease. While both share some common symptoms, such as abdominal pain and diarrhea, the key differences in their nature, location, and severity require distinct treatment approaches.

Below, we break down these conditions to better understand their individual characteristics. If you have any questions, give our office a call and we will be happy to help.

Ulcerative Colitis

Ulcerative colitis is an inflammatory condition of the bowels that develops gradually over time. While it is considered a chronic condition, it is not as severe as other inflammatory disorders of the intestines. Ulcerative colitis affects a single portion of the intestines and usually only affects the inner lining of the colon and rectum. Ulcerative colitis is unfortunately incurable. However, with Dr. Murrell’s swift, certain care, the symptoms can be adequately managed and patients can live relatively normal lives.

Signs and symptoms

Because ulcerative colitis can occur at any point along the digestive tract, it is diagnosed based on its location. Each type of ulcerative colitis produces slightly different symptoms.

These are covered below:

Ulcerative proctitis, affecting the rectum only. This form of ulcerative colitis produces relatively mild symptoms, such as rectal bleeding.
Proctosigmoiditis, which affects the rectum and last portion of the colon. Proctosigmoiditis produces bloody diarrhea, constipation and abdominal cramps.
Left-sided colitis, affecting the left-hand portion of the colon and the rectum. Symptoms of left-sided colitis include accidental weight loss, bloody diarrhea and abdominal cramps.
Pancolitis usually affects the entire colon. The symptoms are harsh, including significant weight loss, fatigue and severe diarrhea.

Crohn’s Disease

Unlike ulcerative colitis, the location of Crohn’s disease is unspecific. It can affect different portions of the digestive tract depending on the patient. Left untreated, Crohn’s disease digs into the deeper layers of the colorectal tissues. The symptoms may become very severe.

While there is currently no cure for Crohn’s disease, Dr. Zuri Murrell is well versed in this disease. He can effectively manage symptoms and even bring about remission. With a reputation for delivering among the best IBD treatment in Los Angeles, he may be the perfect surgeon to help you find relief.

Signs and symptoms

The symptoms of Crohn’s disease often stop and start without warning. Therefore, while it is a chronic disease, there are acute aspects of it. Symptoms include:

Diarrhea
Abdominal cramps and pain
Bloody fecal matter
Ulcers in the digestive tract

IBD Treatment Options

Both Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis are chronic, incurable conditions. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms, reducing inflammation, and preventing complications. While a cure is not possible, early and effective treatment can lead to long-term remission in some cases, providing significant relief from symptoms. Medications, including anti-inflammatories, immunosuppressants, and biologics, along with dietary changes, are often part of the management plan.

After a comprehensive consultation and examination, Dr. Zuri Murrell will work with you to determine the most appropriate treatment approach tailored to your unique needs. With Dr. Murrell’s expertise, you can expect a personalized treatment plan aimed at maximizing symptom relief and improving your overall well-being, whether through medication, lifestyle adjustments, or surgical options when necessary.

IBD Treatment Options Include:

Anti-inflammatory drugs are frequently effective in minimizing inflammation of the bowels. While these may include side effects, any risks will be thoroughly discussed beforehand.
Immune system suppressors don’t directly target the inflammation, but they can reduce it by simply reducing the activity of the immune system.
Relatively generic medications can help patients get relief from the symptoms of IBD. These medications include laxatives, painkillers and anti-diarrheal medication.
There are surgical options for IBD. In general, the purpose of surgery is to remove affected portions of the intestines, allowing the healthy portions to be reconnected. While surgery can effectively reduce and manage symptoms, there will still be follow-up appointments to continue to manage the disease. During your initial consultation, Dr. Murrell can answer any questions you have regarding IBD treatment in Los Angeles during your visit.
The patient will undergo a colonoscopy to diagnose & further monitor the disease. Fortunately, Dr. Murrell delivers among the easiest colonoscopy Beverly Hills can lay claim to.

Patient Testimonial

Dr. Murrell will knock your socks off with his charm, excellent bedside manner, efficiency, professionalism and best in class surgery. He is a colorectal surgeon and treats patients with colorectal cancer and IBD (irritable bowl disease). His staff are also best in class. I was extremely happy with him and you will be extremely happy too.

N.J.

Why Choose Dr. Murrell for IBD Treatment in Los Angeles?

Dr. Murrell is a highly regarded colorectal surgeon in Beverly Hills and Los Angeles. With a specialized focus on treating conditions like Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, and other forms of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), Dr. Murrell utilizes advanced, minimally invasive surgical techniques to restore quality of life for his patients. Board-certified in colorectal surgery, Dr. Murrell has earned recognition as one of the top doctors for IBD treatment in Los Angeles, having been voted Top Doctor for Colon and Rectal Surgeries from 2015 to 2020 by his peers in Los Angeles Magazine.

Dr. Murrell is committed to taking the time to thoroughly explain diagnoses, educate patients, and provide personalized treatment plans tailored to each individual's needs. A nationally recognized expert in the field, he also contributes to the medical community by training colleagues and students at the renowned Cedars-Sinai in Los Angeles. Don’t wait to take control of your health—contact us today for a consultation and begin your journey toward better health and well-being.

Dr. Zuri Murrell Credentials

Named to Southern California Super Doctors® 2015-2017
Director of the Colorectal Cancer Program at Cedars-Sinai
Double board-certified and one of the surgeons in the west coast specifically trained in minimally invasive colorectal surgery
Magna Cum Laude graduate of Morehouse College
Medical Degree at the University of California, Los Angeles
Top Doctor for Colon and Rectal Surgeries in 2015-2018

Member of the American Board of Colon and Rectal Surgery
Member of the American Board of Surgery
Member of the American Medical Association
Fellowship in Colorectal Surgery From Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in 2008
Fellowship in Laparoscopic Colorectal Surgery from the University of California, Irvine in 2007

IBD Treatment FAQs

Can IBD go into remission?

Yes, while IBD is a chronic condition, many patients can experience long periods of remission with the right treatment. Early diagnosis, effective medication, and lifestyle changes can significantly improve symptoms and lead to remission, allowing patients to live a more comfortable life.

What are the common symptoms of IBD?

The most common symptoms of IBD include abdominal pain, diarrhea, bloody stools, weight loss, fatigue, and cramping. These symptoms can vary in severity and may come and go in flare-ups, depending on the extent of the disease.

Is surgery necessary for IBD?

Surgery is typically considered when other treatments do not effectively control symptoms or when complications like bowel obstructions or fistulas occur. In some cases, surgical removal of damaged portions of the digestive tract can provide significant relief and improve overall health.

How can I manage my IBD symptoms on a daily basis?

Managing IBD often involves making lifestyle changes, including dietary adjustments, stress management techniques, and regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider. Staying on top of prescribed medications and avoiding triggers that cause flare-ups, such as certain foods or stress, can also help maintain control over symptoms.

Will I need to change my diet if I have IBD?

Many people with IBD benefit from dietary changes that reduce irritation in the digestive tract. While there is no one-size-fits-all diet, working with a healthcare provider or dietitian can help identify foods that may worsen symptoms and provide guidance on a diet that promotes gut health and reduces inflammation.