The Importance of Intestinal Health
Intestinal health, has a big impact on our overall health. Our intestines play an important role in the digestive process as well as our immune system and mood. While a healthy intestine ensures that our body functions properly, intestinal problems can lead to various health problems. Therefore, it is very important to pay attention to intestinal health.
Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBD)
Inflammatory bowel diseases, Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. These diseases can cause inflammation in the intestines and present with serious symptoms. Symptoms such as abdominal pain, severe diarrhea, blood in the stool, weight loss and fatigue are the most common symptoms of these disorders. It is extremely important for individuals experiencing such symptoms to consult a specialist.
Relationship Between Pelvic Floor Disorders and IBD
pelvic floorIt is responsible for supporting vital organs such as the bladder, uterus, prostate and rectum. However, IBD Pelvic floor functions may be impaired in patients with IBD. This is a serious problem that affects the quality of life of patients. The functionality of the pelvic floor is directly related to intestinal health. The causes of pelvic floor disorders in IBD patients are:
- Chronic Inflammation: Inflammation in the intestinal wall can affect the nervous system in the pelvic area.
- Pain and Hypertonicity: Chronic abdominal pain can lead to over-tension of the pelvic floor muscles.
- Surgical intervention: Surgical procedures performed in the treatment of IBD may disrupt the structure of the pelvic floor muscles.
- Fistulas and Abscesses: Fistulas, which are common in Crohn's disease, can cause damage to the pelvic floor.
Pelvic Floor Dysfunction Symptoms
In patients with IBD pelvic floor dysfunction symptoms include:
- Strained defecation: Excessive straining or painful straining.
- The feeling of not being able to fully evacuate after going to the toilet.
- Incontinence of gas or stool.
- Chronic pelvic pain.
- Urinary incontinence or a feeling of urgency.
Correct Diagnosis and Treatment Methods
pelvic floor dysfunction Modern diagnostic methods are of great importance for the diagnosis. These methods play a critical role in improving the quality of life of patients. The tests applied include:
- Anorectal manometry: It measures the contraction and relaxation patterns of the pelvic muscles during defecation.
- Defecography: It shows abnormal pelvic movements during defecation by radiological method.
- Endoanal ultrasonography: Evaluates the integrity of the sphincter structures.
- Electromyography (EMG): Measures neural transmission of the pelvic floor muscles.
Multidisciplinary Approach to Quality of Life
In the treatment of pelvic floor dysfunction associated with IBD multidisciplinary approach is essential. Gastroenterologists, pelvic floor physiotherapists, colorectal surgeons and, if necessary, psychologists should cooperate in the treatment process. Treatment planning should be specific to each individual. The following methods can be applied in the treatment of pelvic floor dysfunction:
- Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy: Muscle coordination can be increased and pain can be reduced with exercises, biofeedback and manual therapy techniques applied by expert physiotherapists.
- Behavioral and Dietary Approaches: Dietary adjustments and toilet habits training should be provided to prevent constipation problems.
- Medical and Surgical Procedures: In case of fistula or structural disorders, appropriate surgical treatment should be applied.
- Psychological support: Psychological support should be provided for the management of conditions such as anxiety and depression.
Conclusion
Gut health is an important element that directly affects overall quality of life. Early diagnosis and effective treatment methods are critical to dealing with conditions such as IBD and pelvic floor disorders. Therefore, you should take your symptoms into consideration and seek support from the necessary specialists.
