Potential Complications of IBD

Written by Dr. Bharat Pothuri, MD, FACG | Updated On 07-08-2025

IBD: Potential Complications: What You Need to Know.

Life with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is confusing. Gradually you might have to deal with more than cramps or rushing to the bathroom. This is a guide that explains potential IBD complications with easy to understand language. We'll go over:

• The long-term effects that IBD has on your digestive tract
• Extraintestinal problems which occur outside the gut
• Treatment of anemia secondary to IBD
• The effects of IBD on the joints, skin, and eyes

We will also feature the recommendations of Dr. Bharat Pothuri, one of the leading gastroenterologists in Houston, and the tips on how to prevent these problems.

Section 1: Knowledge of IBD and Its Development

IBD consists of crohn disease and ulcerative colitis. Both lead to inflammation in the long term in your digestive system. The result of this inflammation can be permanent damage.

According to Dr. Bharat Pothuri "Problems can be identified early enough, through regular visits, before they become serious. Patients in Houston that maintain communication with their physicians tend to be well".

1.1 What Happens in Your Gut

• Acute inflammation: Temporary swelling of your lining of the gut.
• Chronic inflammation: The continuous destruction of the intestines.
• Scar tissue: Tough solid areas of the bowel.

Inflammation may result in without treatment:

• Bowel constriction (strictures)
• Inter-organic fistulas
• Higher risk of colon cancer

Find out more about the basics of IBD at the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation.

Section 2: The Long-term Effect of IBD on the Digestive Tract

Inflammation destroys your bowel wall. Over time, this can:

• Lower nutrient absorption
• Result in scar tissue which constricts the gut
• Cause stricture obstructions

2.1 Signs of Progression

Watch for these signs:

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

Dr. Pothuri is reminding us, Even when you are okay, regular colonoscopies detect changes earlier- most particularly in Houston where some districts have elevated IBD.

2.2 How to Prevent Damage

• Follow your treatment plan
• Get routine scopes
• Consume a lean protein, vegetable and fruit diet
• See a dietitian if needed

Section 3: Extraintestial Complications

IBD may also spread to other non-gut locations. These are referred to as extraintestinal complications. Common ones include:

• Joint pain (arthritis)
• Skin rashes or ulcers
• Eye inflammation
• Liver (such as primary sclerosing cholangitis) problems

3.1 Joint Pain and Arthritis

One out of 3 individuals with IBD develops joint pains. It may show up as:

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

Dr. Pothuri makes a point to add, “Early joint treatment with therapy or medications allow the Houston patients to remain active.

3.2 Skin and Eye Problems

• Erythema nodosum red painful lumps on the legs
• Pyoderma gangrenosum: deep painful skin ulcers
• Uveitis or episcleritis: It is red and painful eye that can blur vision

Contact your care team in case of skin changes or redness of the eyes.

Section 4: Managing Anemia

IBD is associated with anemia (low red blood cells). It may cause you to be drowsy, giddy, or breathless.

4.1 Causes of Anemia

• Blood loss in the gut
• Blood loss in the gut
• Blocking the production of red blood cells in the body by inflammatory means

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
• Changing medications in order to prevent bleeding

According to Dr. Pothuri, The sooner we treat anemia, the sooner we have our Houston patients back on their feet

Section 5: The Effect of IBD on the joints, skin and eyes

This is a direct, closer look at these typical complications and what to do about them.

5.1 Joint Issues

• Arthralgia: swollen joints
• Peripheral arthritis: swelling in ankle, knees and fingers
• Axial arthritis: pain along the spine or the hips

Tips:

• Perform mild exercises such as yoga or swimming
• Take painkillers (OTC) (with physician consent)
• Inquire concerning DMARDs or biologics

5.2 Skin Problems

Inflammation causes the rashes and ulcers to worsen

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

Skin Tips:

• Keep sores clean and dry
• Apply weak and odorless soaps
• See a skin doctor early

5.3 Eye Problems

• Uveitis: touches on the intermediate layer of the eye
• Episcleritis: iris of the eye irritation

Symptoms: color redness, painfulness, light sensitivity, blurred vision

Eye Tips:

• Avoid contact lenses in the time of a flare
• Use eye drops
• See an eye doctor quickly

Additional information at WebMD on the complications of IBD...

Section 6: Other Complications of IBD

6.1 Strictures and Blockages

Tissues of our bowel can be obstructed. It may require surgery to repair it.

6.2 Fistulas

Tunnels may occur in between the bowel and other organs. These may require surgery and special medication.

6.3 Bone Loss

Bones may be weakened by long-term inflammation or by the use of steroids. You may need a DEXA scan.

6.4 Colon Cancer Risk

When you have had years of Crohn or ulcerative colitis, your chances of having colon cancer increases. Early signs can be detected by regular colonoscopies.

Table: IBD Complications In a Nutshell

Section 7: Wellness in Houston with IBD

Houston offers massive IBD care. If you live here:

• Become members of local IBD groups (such as Houston Crohn's and Colitis Meetup).
• See IBD dietitians through Gastrodoxs.com.
• Keep on the move in parks such as the Memorial Park or Buffalo Bayou.

Dr. Pothuri, “Houston is a medically diverse city. The most recent treatments and clinical trials are available to patients in this case.

Resources:

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

Conclusion

IBD is not a simple stomach malady. Knowing its impact on your gut, joints, skin, eyes, and blood, you can be in control. Stay updated with your care team, have regular checkups and take advantage of the great resources in Houston. Majority of the complications are curable or preventable- so you may continue 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.