Crohns & Colitis - 3 Flashcards
(68 cards)
What is ulcerative colitis?
A chronic inflammatory bowel disease affecting the colon.
Can I die from inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)?
Death due to IBD is rare, and life expectancy is generally the same as those without IBD.
Improvements in medical and surgical management have reduced the mortality risk associated with IBD.
What is the prognosis for IBD patients after the first year of diagnosis?
After the first year, the risk of dying appears to be no different than in individuals without IBD.
What factors can affect the prognosis of IBD?
- Age of first diagnosis
- Location of disease
- Severity of the first attack
- Appearance of the intestinal lining during colonoscopy
- Blood tests and genetic tests
What is the significance of the first attack of IBD?
The severity of the first attack tends to predict the subsequent course of the disease.
What is the risk of having another flare after a severe first episode of IBD?
Approximately 50% chance of having another flare within 1 year after tapering off steroid medication.
What lifestyle changes might be necessary for someone with IBD?
Lifestyle changes can vary, but may include dietary modifications and stress management.
True or False: People with IBD can lead productive lives.
True.
Fill in the blank: The likelihood that IBD will progress depends on the _______ of intestine involved.
[extent]
What percentage of patients may experience spontaneous improvement of IBD symptoms without treatment?
5% to 30%.
What is the role of nutrition in managing IBD?
Nutritional advice and special diets may be recommended in specific cases.
How do emotional responses to a diagnosis of IBD vary among individuals?
- Fear
- Anxiety
- Anger
- Sadness
- Acceptance as a challenge
What should a patient do if they are uncertain about medical information found online?
Discuss it with their doctor.
What is the common misconception about surgery for IBD?
Some patients and doctors may be reluctant to consider surgery at diagnosis, even when it may be appropriate.
What is a common initial reaction to a diagnosis of IBD?
The question ‘Can I die from this disease?’
What can cause flares in IBD?
Flares can occur without identifiable causes; stress, diet, and infections do not consistently trigger them.
What is a potential outcome of successful treatment for IBD?
Achieving full remission, where the patient is free of symptoms.
What is the importance of identifying triggers for IBD flares?
Identifying triggers can help reduce the risk of future flares.
What is one of the most common fears among those newly diagnosed with IBD?
The fear of having to wear a bag to collect stool.
Fill in the blank: IBD is not a _______ condition.
[fatal]
What is a significant concern for patients regarding IBD and pregnancy?
Whether the condition will flare during pregnancy.
What is a common misconception from older studies regarding IBD?
That the risk of dying is increased in people with IBD compared to those without.
What is the typical course of IBD symptoms over time?
Symptoms can fluctuate in severity, sometimes improving or worsening without clear reasons.
What is the relationship between stress and IBD flares?
No consistent evidence shows that stress directly increases the risk of flares.