What is inflammatory bowel disease?
A person with inflammatory bowel disease has swelling and inflammation of the wall of the intestines. Examples of inflammatory bowel disease include ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease.

What are the symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease?
Common symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease include episodes of abdominal pain and diarrhea that is often bloody. Other symptoms include abdominal swelling, constipation, fever, joint pain, nausea, weakness or fatigue, and weight loss.

How does the doctor treat inflammatory bowel disease?
There is no cure for inflammatory bowel disease. The specific treatment depends on the underlying cause. The goal of treatment is to control symptoms and limit the frequency of symptoms. Treatment for inflammatory bowel disease may include a special diet that is high in fiber and omega-3-fatty acids, medications to lessen inflammation in the intestines, vitamin supplements, and surgery.