*Irritable Bowel Disease (IBD)* refers to *chronic inflammatory conditions* of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. It includes two main types: *1. Crohn’s Disease* - Can affect *any part* of the GI tract (mouth to anus) - Involves *patchy areas* of inflammation - Affects *all layers* of the bowel wall - Common symptoms: abdominal pain, diarrhea, fatigue, weight loss *2. Ulcerative Colitis* - Affects the *colon and rectum only* - Involves *continuous areas* of inflammation - Affects the *innermost lining* of the colon - Common symptoms: bloody diarrhea, urgency to pass stool, abdominal cramps *Causes/Risk Factors:* - Autoimmune response - Genetic predisposition - Environmental triggers (diet, stress, smoking) *Complications:* - Malnutrition - Intestinal blockage - Colon cancer (especially with long-term UC) - Fistulas (mainly in Crohn’s) *Treatment:* - Anti-inflammatory drugs (e.g., aminosalicylates) - Immunosuppressants (e.g., azathioprine) - Biologics (e.g., infliximab) - Surgery in severe or unresponsive cases - Lifestyle: balanced diet, stress management