An inflamed gut, also known as gastrointestinal inflammation or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), can cause a variety of uncomfortable symptoms. Here are some of the main signs and feelings that indicate your gut is inflamed:
Abdominal Pain and Cramping
One of the most common symptoms of an inflamed gut is abdominal pain and cramping. This can range from mild discomfort to severe, debilitating pain. The location of the pain can help identify the affected area – for example, pain in the lower right side may indicate inflamed ileum or cecum, while left-sided pain may point to inflammation in the colon or rectum.
Diarrhea
Inflammation interrupts the normal absorption of water in the colon, leading to diarrhea. Stools become loose, watery and more frequent when the gut is inflamed. Diarrhea can range from mild to severe, depending on the extent of inflammation. It may be accompanied by urgent bowel movements, abdominal cramps and incontinence.
Constipation
Although less common than diarrhea, some people with gut inflammation experience constipation. This happens when inflammation causes strictures or narrowing in the bowel that make it difficult for stool to pass through. Constipation may involve straining, hard stool, feelings of incomplete evacuation and fewer bowel movements.
Bloating and Gas
Many people with an irritated gut complain of bloating, abdominal distension and excessive gas (flatulence). This is partly due to inflammation altering gut motility – the natural contractions that move food through the digestive tract. Slower motility allows gas produced by bacteria to accumulate. The inflammation itself also seems to increase sensitivity to normal amounts of gas and bloating.
Blood in Stool
One of the hallmark signs of intestinal inflammation is bloody stool. The inflamed intestinal wall becomes fragile and prone to bleeding, especially during bowel movements. The blood is typically bright red or maroon in color. Dark, tarry stools indicate bleeding higher up in the GI tract. Blood in the stool warrants medical attention.
Fatigue and Weakness
Inflammatory bowel disease and chronic gut inflammation can cause fatigue, lack of energy and weakness. This is due to several factors like chronic diarrhea, poor nutrient absorption, anemia from blood loss, and the immune system’s constant battle against inflammation. Getting plenty of rest is important during flare-ups.
Loss of Appetite and Weight Loss
Appetite loss and unintentional weight loss frequently occur with an inflamed gut. Inflammation releases chemicals that suppress appetite. Diarrhea and nausea make eating uncomfortable. Poor nutrient absorption can cause deficiencies that reduce appetite. If significant weight loss occurs, seek medical advice.
Fever and Chills
A fever over 101°F (38°C) may signal an intestinal infection triggered by the gut inflammation. Chills often accompany the fever. However, some people run a low-grade fever when their IBD flares up, without an infection. Let your doctor know if you have an unexplained fever with gut inflammation.
Nausea and Vomiting
Gastrointestinal inflammation can cause nausea and vomiting, although this is more common with Crohn’s disease involving the small intestine. Vomiting bile may indicate an obstruction from swollen intestines. These symptoms warrant medical evaluation to identify the cause and proper treatment.
Joint Pain
Some people with inflammatory bowel disease experience pain and inflammation in joints like the knees, elbows, wrists, and fingers. This extraintestinal manifestation is thought to result from the gut’s inflammatory response spreading systemically. Joint symptoms may flare up along with intestinal symptoms.
Skin Changes
Skin conditions are another possible extraintestinal manifestation of inflammatory bowel disease. These include red bumps or pustules, mouth sores, red swellings called erythema nodosum, and itchy rashes. Let your doctor know if you develop unexplained skin issues together with gut inflammation.
Eye Inflammation
Up to 10% of inflammatory bowel disease patients develop inflammatory eye conditions like conjunctivitis, uveitis, and episcleritis. The immune system attacks the eyes just as it does the intestines. Symptoms can include redness, pain, blurred vision, and sensitivity to light. Prompt ophthalmologic treatment is needed.
Conclusion
Inflamed gut syndrome causes a diverse array of symptoms that can disrupt quality of life. Abdominal pain, diarrhea, bleeding, fatigue and loss of appetite are among the most common effects. Extraintestinal symptoms like joint pain and rashes may also occur. Ongoing symptoms should be evaluated by a gastroenterologist to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.