Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) can affect more than just your stomach. It can cause painful lumps on your skin, or more specifically, on your lower legs called erythema nodosum, and sometimes lead to the development of ulcers.
Individuals over 40 who have received an IBD diagnosis often suffer from joint pain and may develop an eye condition. These same individuals may experience what’s known as episcleritis, which generally causes eye irritation, redness and swelling. Some people experience uveitis or scleritis, both of which are types of inflammation. If left untreated, it can potentially cause blindness.
There are other conditions and symptoms people with IBD may suffer from as well. Patients who aren’t overly physically active, who take steroids or struggle to absorb vitamin D, calcium or magnesium, may develop osteoporosis. Anyone who receives both this and an IBD diagnosis has an increased risk of broken bones, a side effect that increases with age. Both men and women are equally affected in such instances.
IBD can have other negative impacts on your health. It may cause you to suffer from anemia, which causes your body not to produce enough red blood cells. The lack of adequate oxygen to your body and tissues may cause you to feel tired and weak. You may also develop gallstones or suffer from kidney disease, your liver may become inflamed or your bile ducts and airways may become irritated. Children with IBD may have stunted growth and a delay in the onset of puberty.
If you suffer from IBD, you may qualify for Social Security Disability benefits. The severity of your condition and the level of your impairment may determine whether your application gets approved. An experienced attorney here in Houston can help you prepare your application so that you have the best chance of getting it approved.