Some of the medications that you take for your IBD may weaken your immune system, making it easier to get infections. This is why it is very important to be up to date on your vaccinations. People with IBD should generally follow the same vaccination schedule as others without IBD, as recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), but may need additional vaccinations depending on their medications to keep them protected. You should discuss with your healthcare provider which vaccines are safe for you or your child or if additional vaccines, such as pneumonia or shingles vaccines, are also recommended.
Vaccinations can be considered either live or inactivated. Live vaccines contain a weakened live virus while inactivated vaccines do not have a live virus. Live vaccines are not recommended for IBD patients on immune-suppressing medications. Prior to receiving any vaccine, check with the administering individual to confirm you are receiving an inactivated vaccine.
Children with IBD should generally follow the recommended vaccination schedule of the American Academy of Pediatrics and the CDC. You can follow the links below to find the recommended vaccination schedule:
Having IBD, along with poor nutrition, may delay puberty in boys and girls. If you have concerns about your child’s pubertal development, discuss them with your child’s pediatrician or pediatric GI.
Some people with IBD are at an increased risk for cancers such as colon cancer. Depending on the medications you use, such as biologics, you may also be at an increased risk for skin or cervical cancer. Careful monitoring and evaluation by your doctor are recommended. You may need to have earlier or more frequent screenings, such as colonoscopies, full body skin exams, and Pap smears.
Due to poor nutrition, medications, or other factors, people with IBD may experience changes in their bone, eye, or oral health. Your doctor should monitor you for risk factors that could signal changes in your health. Everyone should continue to see their eye doctor and dentist on at least a yearly basis.
Living with a chronic, and often painful, illness can take a toll on your mental health and emotional well-being. Several studies show that people with IBD are particularly prone to depression.
Symptoms of depression include:
- Sadness or hopelessness
- Irritability, anger, hostility
- Tearfulness or frequent crying
- Withdrawal from friends or family
- No longer enjoying activities that were previously a source of pleasure
If you are experiencing these symptoms, consult your doctor for a screening and find the appropriate medical treatment if necessary.
If you have thoughts of self-harm or suicide, please do not hesitate to reach out for help by calling 911, going to the closest emergency room, or calling the 988 Lifeline at 988.
Blood and Stool Tests
It is important to regularly get blood and stool tests. These tests can monitor how your body is responding to medications, assess for infections, and help monitor your nutritional status. How frequently these tests are done depends on your disease and the medications you’re taking.
Blood Pressure
Some medications used to treat IBD can cause an increased risk of high blood pressure. It is important to discuss with your doctor if you are at risk and may need increased monitoring.
Tobacco, Alcohol, and Substance Use
Current smokers have twice the risk of developing Crohn’s disease, and for those with Crohn’s disease, smoking increases the risk of flares and risk of surgery. Alcohol and substance abuse can also negatively impact your IBD. Talk with your healthcare provider if you are struggling with tobacco, alcohol, or other substances.
