IBD Service

The two main types of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease.

Both of these are long-term (chronic) diseases that involve inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract (gut).

Ulcerative colitis only affects the colon (large intestine), while Crohn’s disease can affect any part of the digestive system, from the mouth to the anus. Typical symptoms include diarrhoea, abdominal pain and rectal bleeding.

It is sometimes difficult to tell the difference between the two main types of IBD. If this is the case, it is known as indeterminate colitis.

There are other, rarer types of IBD called collagenous colitis and lymphocytic colitis. Together these are often called microscopic colitis.

Inflammatory bowel disease is usually diagnosed via sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy.

Once identified your doctor will start you on the right programme of medication.

For more information on IBD including diagnosis and medications, visit Crohns and Colitis UK website.

Frequently asked questions

What should I do if I feel like I am having a flare?

You would need to contact your local GP or your IBD team to request a FCP (Faecal Calprotectin Stool Sample) and the following bloods taken, Full Blood Count, Liver Function Test and Urea and Electrolytes.

What can I do to settle down my symptoms?

Follow a Low Residue Diet – information on the Crohn’s or Colitis website.

  • Avoid taking Ibuprofen, Nurofen or Naproxen medications
  • Limit your stress levels
  • If you have recently had antibiotics this could exacerbate your IBD symptoms

When should I seek urgent or emergency care?

Go to A&E or call 999 if you:

  • Have severe dehydration or malnourishment
  • Are vomiting up blood
  • Have severe tummy pain, a high temperature and a rapid heartbeat.
  • Are bleeding non-stop from your bottom
  • Have a stoma and think it might be blocked. Signs of stoma blockage include: not passing wind or poo, passing watery poo, nausea, bloating or swelling tummy, tummy cramps, swollen stoma, nausea or vomiting or both.
  • All medicines have a small risk of side effects, such as chest pain, rapid heartbeat or hives. If you experience any side effects that you are worried about while taking your medicine, contact your IBD team or your GP as soon as possible.

The team

Clinical Nurse Specialists

  • Victoria Lithgow
  • Olivia Gartland
  • Catherine Hunt

IBD Coordinator

  • Katie Scott

Consultants

  • Dr Aly
  • Dr Shabana

Contact details

IBD Helpline 01228 814 261 and select option 7 to leave a voicemail message.  We aim to respond to queries within 48 hours.

The IBD service runs 8.30am to 4.30pm from Monday to Friday not including bank holidays.

  • Healthnet Homecare – 08000 833 060
  • Pharmacy queries – 01228 814 554
  • Contact Centre – 03447 760 003
  • Gastroenterology Secretary’s – 01228 814 148
  • Endoscopy Service – 01228 210430