Integrating Patient Priorities
摘要
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a systemic condition. Besides addressing the intricacies of managing bowel inflammation itself, it’s crucial to view the patient holistically. Typically, IBD patients are younger and within their working and reproductive age; however, it’s noteworthy that a significant portion may receive a diagnosis after the age of 60. This chapter explores how both active and inactive IBD may cause significant physical and psychological burdens and emphasizes the importance of health-care professionals understanding each patient’s experience and expectations about their disease. This chapter focuses on pain, fatigue, and urgency; some of the symptoms that most frequently concern patients on a daily basis, but also on the impact of disease on sexuality and other important dimensions of quality of life. The text explores the possible mechanisms behind them and their differential diagnoses, including the numerous causes of urgency and diarrhea in IBD patients other than active disease. The management of each symptom is also examined, including practical daily tips for altered bowel habits and non-pharmacological therapies for fatigue.