Living Well with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)

Inflammatory bowel disease includes Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. It causes episodes of diarrhea, abdominal pain, fatigue, and weight loss. While there is currently no cure, you can manage symptoms and live well with good habits.

Everyday Tips

• Take your medications every day as prescribed, even if you feel well.
• Drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration, especially during flares.
• Eat balanced meals and track which foods trigger symptoms.
• Limit foods that may irritate your gut, such as high-fat, spicy, or heavily processed foods.
• Stay current with colonoscopies and vaccines as recommended by your doctor.

When to Call Your Doctor

• Blood in your stool or black, tarry stools
• Severe abdominal pain or cramping
• Fever or unexplained weight loss
• Symptoms that don’t improve with your usual treatment
• Always ask your healthcare provider for specific advice on when to call to report symptoms, and when to seek urgent/emergency care.   

Sample Small Goals

• Drink at least 8 cups of water daily for the next month.
• Keep a food and symptom diary every day for 4 weeks.
• Take all prescribed medications on schedule for the next 30 days.
• Walk for 20 minutes at least 5 days each week.

Remember: Small, consistent steps can make a big difference.

Medical Disclaimer

This resource is provided for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The information presented is general in nature and may not apply to every individual or health situation.

Individuals should consult their physician or another qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations related to their specific health conditions.

Do not ignore or delay seeking professional medical advice because of information contained in this resource.

Call 911 if you are experiencing a medical emergency.