Written by Dr. Bharat Pothuri, MD, FACG

Potential Complications of IBD: What You Need to Know

Living with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) can feel confusing. Over time, you may deal with more than just cramps or rushing to the bathroom. This guide from Gastrodoxs.com explains possible IBD complications in simple terms. We’ll go over:

• How IBD affects your digestive tract over time
• Problems that happen outside the gut (extraintestinal)
• Managing anemia caused by IBD
• How IBD impacts joints, skin, and eyes

We’ll also include advice from Dr. Bharat Pothuri, a top gastroenterologist in Houston, and tips to stay ahead of these issues.

Section 1: Understanding IBD and Its Progression

IBD includes Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Both cause long-term inflammation in your digestive system. This inflammation can lead to lasting damage.

Dr. Bharat Pothuri says, “Early care and regular visits help catch problems before they get serious. Houston patients who stay in touch with their doctors often do better.”

1.1 What Happens in Your Gut

• Acute inflammation: sudden swelling of your gut lining
• Chronic inflammation: ongoing damage to the intestines
• Scar tissue: thick, stiff parts of the bowel

Without treatment, inflammation can cause:

• Narrowing of the bowel (strictures)
• Tunnels between organs (fistulas)
• Higher risk of colon cancer

Learn more about IBD basics at the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation.

Section 2: How IBD Affects the Digestive Tract Over Time

Inflammation breaks down your intestinal lining. Over time, this can:

• Lower nutrient absorption
• Cause scar tissue that narrows the gut
• Lead to blockages from strictures

2.1 Signs of Progression

Watch for these signs:

• Lasting stomach pain
• More frequent diarrhea
• Unexplained weight loss
• Blood in your stool

Dr. Pothuri reminds us, “Even if you feel okay, routine colonoscopies catch changes early—especially in Houston where some areas have higher IBD rates.”

2.2 How to Prevent Damage

• Follow your treatment plan
• Get routine scopes
• Eat a diet with lean protein, fruits, and vegetables
• See a dietitian if needed

Section 3: Extraintestinal Complications

IBD can also affect areas outside the gut. These are called extraintestinal complications. Common ones include:

• Joint pain (arthritis)
• Skin rashes or ulcers
• Eye inflammation
• Liver issues (like primary sclerosing cholangitis)

3.1 Joint Pain and Arthritis

Around 30% of people with IBD get joint pain. It may show up as:

• Swollen ankles, knees, or hips
• Stiff back (spondylitis)

Dr. Pothuri adds, “Treating joint issues early with therapy or meds helps Houston patients stay active.”

3.2 Skin and Eye Problems

• Erythema nodosum: red, painful bumps on the legs
• Pyoderma gangrenosum: deep, painful skin ulcers
• Uveitis or episcleritis: red, sore eyes that may blur vision

If you see skin changes or eye redness, call your care team.

Section 4: Managing Anemia

Anemia (low red blood cells) is common with IBD. It can make you tired, dizzy, or out of breath.

4.1 Causes of Anemia

• Blood loss in the gut
• Poor iron absorption
• Inflammation blocking red blood cell production

4.2 Symptoms to Notice

• Always feeling tired
• Pale skin or nail beds
• Fast heartbeat
• Feeling lightheaded

4.3 Treatment Options

Managing anemia includes:

• Iron pills or infusions
• B12 or folate shots if needed
• Adjusting meds to stop bleeding

Dr. Pothuri says, “The sooner we treat anemia, the faster Houston patients get their strength back.”

Section 5: How IBD Affects Joints, Skin, and Eyes

Here’s a closer look at these common complications—and what to do about them.

5.1 Joint Issues

• Arthralgia: sore joints with no swelling
• Peripheral arthritis: swelling in fingers, knees, ankles
• Axial arthritis: pain in the spine or hips

Tips:

• Try gentle workouts like swimming or yoga
• Use over-the-counter pain relievers (with doctor’s okay)
• Ask about DMARDs or biologics

5.2 Skin Problems

Rashes and ulcers flare up with inflammation

• Erythema nodosum: red bumps on the legs
• Pyoderma gangrenosum: deep ulcers on the skin

Skin Tips:

• Keep sores clean and dry
• Use mild, fragrance-free soaps
• See a skin doctor early

5.3 Eye Problems

• Uveitis: affects the middle layer of the eye
• Episcleritis: outer eye irritation

Symptoms: redness, pain, light sensitivity, blurry vision

Eye Tips:

• Skip contact lenses during flares
• Use eye drops
• See an eye doctor quickly

More info at WebMD’s guide on IBD complications..

Section 6: Other Complications of IBD

6.1 Strictures and Blockages

Scar tissue can block your bowel. Surgery may be needed to fix it.

6.2 Fistulas

Tunnels can form between the bowel and other organs. These may need surgery and special medication.

6.3 Bone Loss

Long-term inflammation or steroid use can weaken bones. You may need a DEXA scan.

6.4 Colon Cancer Risk

If you’ve had Crohn’s or ulcerative colitis for years, your colon cancer risk goes up. Regular colonoscopies can catch early signs.

Table: IBD Complications at a Glance

Section 7: Living Well in Houston with IBD

Houston has great care options for IBD. If you live here:

• Join local IBD groups (like Houston Crohn’s & Colitis Meetup)
• See IBD dietitians via Gastrodoxs.com
• Stay active in parks like Memorial Park or Buffalo Bayou

Dr. Pothuri adds, “Houston has a diverse medical community. Patients here have access to the latest treatments and clinical trials.”

Resources:

• Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation
• Mayo Clinic
• NIH

Conclusion

IBD is more than just stomach trouble. By learning how it affects your gut, joints, skin, eyes, and blood, you can take charge. Stay connected to your care team, get regular checkups, and use Houston's great resources. Most complications can be managed or prevented—so you can keep living well.

About the Author

Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.