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Caprock Gastro Research was established with the aim of facilitating access to innovative medications. This organization offers patients suffering from specific gastrointestinal conditions the opportunity to participate in clinical drug trials. These trials, conducted under the stringent regulations of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), are funded by the pharmaceutical companies developing the drugs. At Caprock Gastro Research, patients are under the careful supervision of healthcare professionals and are monitored according to the specific rules of each clinical trial. Currently, the focus is on recruiting patients diagnosed with Ulcerative Colitis or Crohn’s disease.

 

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a disease that represents a group of intestinal disorders that cause prolonged inflammation of the digestive tract. The digestive tract consists of the mouth, esophagus, stomach, small intestine and large intestine. Inflammation in the digestive tract can affect the breaking down of food, extracting nutrients and removing any unusable material and waste products. IBD can cause symptoms that can disrupt a person’s life and become life-threatening.

 

ULCERATIVE COLITIS (UC)

UC causes chronic inflammation of the large intestines, or the colon. The lining of the colon develops tiny open sores, or ulcers. Symptoms of UC are:

  • Abdominal pain

  • Loose stools

  • Bloody stools

  • Urgency of bowel movement

  • Fatigue

  • Weight loss

  • Malnutrition

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CROHN’S DISEASE

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Crohn’s disease is chronic inflammation that can affect any part of the digestive tract from the mouth to the anus. It is commonly found at the end of the small intestine and the beginning of the large intestine (colon). Symptoms of Crohn’s disease are:

  • Frequent diarrhea

  • Occasional constipation

  • Abdominal pain

  • Fever

  • Bloody stools

  • Fatigue

  • Skin conditions

  • Mouth sores

  • Joint pain

  • Malnutrition

  • Fistulas

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IMPORTANCE OF BEING TREATED

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UC and Crohn’s disease not only significantly decrease a person’s quality of life but can also ultimately lead to death. If left untreated, they can also lead to:

  • Perforation, or holes, to the small/large intestines

  • Abscess

  • Anemia

  • Colon cancer

 

TREATMENT

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There is no cure. Treatment of UC and Crohn’s disease is centered around the management of symptoms. Remission is the ultimate goal. There are 5 types of medications:

  • Steroids

  • Antiobiotics

  • Immune modifiers

  • Aminosalicylates (5-ASA)

  • Biologic therapy

  • Surgery can also be an option but usually left as a last resort.

 

RESEARCH IN IBD

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Scientists are currently exploring different options in treating and possibly finding a cure for Ulcerative Colitis and Crohn’s disease. There are many clinical research trials across the globe currently underway towards finding cures for these conditions. Caprock Gastro Research is proud to bring the latest treatment options to West Texas. If you have UC or Crohn’s disease and are interested in learning more about clinical research trials, please contact Caprock Gastro Research for a free consultation.

  • What is Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)?
    Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) refers to a group of chronic inflammatory conditions of the gastrointestinal tract. The two main types of IBD are Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, both characterized by inflammation that can lead to various symptoms and complications.
  • What are the symptoms of IBD?
    Common symptoms include abdominal pain, diarrhea, weight loss, fatigue, and rectal bleeding. However, symptoms can vary widely among individuals, and some may experience periods of remission.
  • What causes IBD?
    The exact cause of IBD is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic, environmental, and immune system factors. Genetics, in particular, play a role, as IBD is more common in individuals with a family history of the disease.
  • How is IBD diagnosed?
    Diagnosis typically involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, blood tests, imaging studies, and endoscopic procedures such as colonoscopy and sigmoidoscopy.
  • Can IBD be cured?
    Currently, there is no cure for IBD, but various treatment options are available to manage symptoms and induce remission. These may include medications, lifestyle changes, and in some cases, surgery.
  • What medications are commonly used to treat IBD?
    Medications for IBD include anti-inflammatory drugs, immunosuppressants, biologics, and antibiotics. The choice of medication depends on the type and severity of the disease.
  • How does diet affect IBD?
    Diet can play a role in managing IBD symptoms. While there is no one-size-fits-all diet, some individuals find relief from certain symptoms by avoiding specific foods, such as those that are spicy or high in fiber. It is essential to work with a healthcare provider or dietitian to determine the most suitable diet for individual cases.
  • Can stress trigger or worsen IBD symptoms?
    While stress does not cause IBD, it can exacerbate symptoms in some individuals. Stress management techniques, such as meditation and counseling, may be helpful in managing the disease.
  • Are there any complications associated with IBD?
    Yes, IBD can lead to various complications, including bowel obstructions, abscesses, fistulas, and an increased risk of colorectal cancer. Regular monitoring and management are crucial to minimizing complications.
  • Can women with IBD have a healthy pregnancy?
    With proper medical care and monitoring, many women with IBD can have healthy pregnancies. It is important to work closely with healthcare providers to manage medications and monitor the health of both the mother and the baby during pregnancy.
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