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Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is a chronic condition that causes inflammation in the digestive tract. There are two main types of IBD: Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. Both conditions can cause a range of uncomfortable symptoms, including abdominal pain, diarrhea, and fatigue. If left untreated, IBD can lead to complications such as malnutrition, bowel obstruction, and even colon cancer. Fortunately, Dr. Mark Stengler has extensive experience in treating IBD naturally, using an integrative medicine approach that addresses the root causes of the problem.

Symptoms

The symptoms of IBD can vary depending on the type and severity of the condition. Common symptoms include:

  • Abdominal pain and cramping
  • Diarrhea (which may be bloody in ulcerative colitis)
  • Fatigue
  • Weight loss
  • Loss of appetite
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Joint pain
  • Eye inflammation

These symptoms can be mild or severe and may come and go over time. It's important to see a healthcare professional if you're experiencing any of these symptoms to determine if you have IBD or another digestive condition.

Treatment

At our Encinitas Holistic Medicine Clinic, we offer personalized IBD treatment plans that take into account your unique symptoms, lifestyle, and medical history. We use a combination of conventional and natural therapies to help manage your symptoms and improve your overall health and wellbeing. Some of the approaches we may use include:

  • Dietary changes: We'll work with you to identify any foods that may trigger your symptoms and create a personalized nutrition plan that supports healthy digestion.
  • Nutritional supplements: We may recommend specific supplements that can help reduce inflammation, support gut health, and improve overall wellbeing.
  • Herbal remedies: Dr. Stengler has extensive knowledge of traditional herbal medicine and can recommend natural remedies that have been shown to improve IBD symptoms, such as turmeric, aloe vera, and slippery elm.
  • Stress reduction techniques: Stress can aggravate IBD symptoms, so we may recommend relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises to help you manage stress levels.
  • Prescription medication: In some cases, prescription medications may be necessary to manage IBD symptoms. Dr. Stengler can work with you and your primary care physician to ensure that you receive the appropriate medications for your specific needs.

Stengler Center for Integrative Medicine: A Holistic Approach to IBD

At the Stengler Center for Integrative Medicine, we understand the complex nature of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) and the challenges it presents for our patients. That's why we take a holistic, integrative approach to IBD treatment, focusing on improving overall health and well-being in addition to addressing specific symptoms.

We believe that optimal digestive health requires a multifaceted approach that includes nutrition, hydration, and stress reduction. Our team of healthcare professionals works with patients to develop personalized treatment plans that incorporate lifestyle changes, natural therapies, and conventional medical interventions as needed.

Our top-down approach to IBD treatment emphasizes the importance of treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. By addressing underlying factors such as gut inflammation, nutritional imbalances, and stress, we can help improve digestion and reduce the risk of complications associated with IBD.

Whether you're struggling with Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis, our team of experts is here to help. Contact us today to learn more about our integrative approach to IBD treatment and start your journey towards optimal digestive health.