There are many diseases associated with old age. But some ailments are crosses we bear over the course of our lives. Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) such as Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis and celiac disease are health issues that last our entire lives. While these diseases are not curable, they are manageable and sufferers can still maintain a high quality of life, even into our golden years.
However, if older sufferers have not been properly diagnosed or do not properly adhere to care and/or medication regimens, these inflammatory bowel diseases can lead to more than just physical health problems. Improper care can lead to depression, social isolation, anxiety and an overall negative self image.
Inflammatory Bowel Diseases
IBD and celiac produce uncomfortable, unpleasant symptoms for the sufferer and can also affect others. Symptoms such as diarrhea, gas, and stomach pain can cripple sufferers and make for awkward and uncomfortable social situations. This often can push those with inflammatory bowel disease into isolation.
Sufferers may stay away from social settings to avoid an awkward situation or encounter. This can lead to anxiety about going outside or being around others. The avoidance of social situations can lead to isolation and ultimately depression. This can be a dangerous psychological side effect of these physical ailments.
Tips for IBD Care
To help avoid these psychological issues stemming from inflammatory bowel diseases, sufferers should adhere to some simple self care steps:>
- Medications: Make sure you are taking your medications regularly and following up with your doctor.
- Diet: There’s no one diet that fits all types of inflammatory bowel disease. It’s important to know what foods aggravate your specific IBD and avoid those foods. For example, If you suffer from celiac, a gluten free diet is necessary. It may be helpful to consult a nutritionist.
- Vices: Alcohol and tobacco can worsen symptoms of IBD and can often interfere with medications. Thus, these vices should be avoided.
- Hydration: Staying hydrated is key to good health. This is especially vital if a patient suffers from diarrhea.
- Doctors: Be sure you’re seeing a gastroenterologist and working with them to manage your disease.
- Support Groups: When battling any health issue, it’s good to know you’re not alone. Support groups are a great way to keep you or your loved one from feeling isolated when battling a health issue.
These simple measures can keep you feeling good, both in mind and body. Dealing with inflammatory bowel disease or celiac disease is an ongoing struggle. But if you stay on top of treatments, medications and your healthy habits, you’ll have the best chance of staying healthy in all aspects of your life.