Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis are inflammatory bowel diseases that affect nearly 2 million Americans. Crohn's disease tends to affect the small intestine, although any part of the digestive tract may be involved, and ulcerative colitis usually causes an inflammation involving all or part of the large intestine. Individuals with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) often have diarrhea, abdominal pain, fever and weight loss. The cause of these diseases is unknown, it is often difficult to distinguish one disease from the other and there is no cure for either condition. Medications often are prescribed to control the symptoms of IBD, and, in some cases, surgical removal of the involved intestine may be necessary.

The Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of American reports that 30-60 percent of people with IBD may have low bone density, which puts them at significant risk for osteoporosis. People with IBD often are treated with glucocorticoids (prednisone or cortisone) to reduce the inflammation caused by their disease. Over time, these drugs interfere with the bone remodeling process and calcium balance. Bone loss increases with the dose and duration of glucocorticoid therapy.

IBD individuals who have extensive inflammation of the small bowel and/or have parts of the small bowel surgically removed may have difficulty absorbing calcium and vitamin D -- a further concern for bone health.

To promote bone health, individuals with celiac disease or IBD should consume a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D and participate in an appropriate exercise program. In some cases, a bone density test and medication to prevent further bone loss may be recommended, especially for those on long term glucocorticoid therapy.

Content Courtesy : www.osteo.org
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