Patient was educated on lifestyle modifications for managing symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease as follows: Maintain good hydration status by consuming at least 2.5 to 3 liters of fluid a day, as patients with IBD are at high risk for dehydration. Try eating multiple smaller meals a day, instead of big meals, as big meals worsen the symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease and exhaust the patient. Seek a dietician consult and observe compliance with the [...]

Patient was educated on dietary limitations to be observed by individuals with inflammatory bowel disease as follows: Cut down on foods that aggravate symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease, such as, abdominal pain, bloating and distension. These foods include sodas, spicy foods, coffee, and alcohol. Avoid high fatty foods in your diet, as fat digestion is impaired in the small intestine and can make the intestinal irritation and diarrhea worse. Cut down on foods that add [...]

Patient was educated on the symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease as follows: Reduced appetite The abdominal pain and cramps can reduce the appetite and patients can be averse to eating, fearing the activation of symptoms with food. Bloody stool The inflammation can lead to ulcerations in the intestines, leading to hemorrhage and bleeding. This bleeding can be fresh and bright red if the involved part of the intestines is in the large intestine or closer [...]

Patient was educated on the symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease as follows: Activation of autoimmune disorders As the cause of the inflammatory bowel disease involves an abnormal autoimmune response, this can lead to exacerbation of any underlying autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, dry eyes and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Abdominal pain Pain is secondary to the inflammation and swelling of the intestinal walls. Abdominal cramps Contractions of the smooth muscle in the swollen intestines [...]

Patient was educated on the symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease as follows: Diarrhea The irritation of the intestinal wall results in diarrhea and loss of fluid and electrolytes. Low grade fever Low grade fever can be part of inflammatory process involving the intestines. Malnutrition Chronic unresolved inflammatory bowel disease with ulceration of the intestinal wall can result in poor absorption of nutrients from the intestines and consequent malnutrition. Prolonged malnutrition can contribute towards weight loss.