Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
Causes
The exact cause of inflammatory bowel disease is unknown. However, genetics and problems with the immune system have been associated with IBD.
Genetics
You might be more likely to develop IBD if you have a sibling or parent with the disease. This is why scientists believe IBD may have a genetic component.
The immune system
The immune system may also play a role in IBD.
Normally, the immune system defends the body from pathogens (organisms that cause diseases and infections). A bacterial or viral infection of the digestive tract can trigger an immune response.
As the body tries to fight off the invaders, the digestive tract becomes inflamed. When the infection is gone, the inflammation goes away. That’s a healthy response.
In people with IBD, however, digestive tract inflammation can happen even when there’s no infection. The immune system attacks the body’s own cells instead. This is known as an autoimmune response.
IBD can also occur when the inflammation doesn’t go away after the infection is cured. The inflammation may continue for months or even years.
How can inflammatory bowel disease be prevented?
The hereditary causes of IBD can’t be prevented. However, you may be able reduce your risk of developing IBD or prevent a relapse by:
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eating healthy foods
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exercising regularly
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quitting smoking
IBD can cause some discomfort, but there are ways you can manage the disease and still live a healthy, active lifestyle.
Visit the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation for resources and more information on IBD, including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.
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