Gastrointestinal conditions

Inflammatory Bowel Diseases and Conditions

Chronic inflammation of the digestive tract, causing symptoms like diarrhoea, pain, and fatigue.
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About

Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBD) include Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. These are conditions where the digestive tract becomes inflamed, causing symptoms like diarrhoea, abdominal pain, and fatigue.

IBD can vary in severity and might be long-term.

This condition is often invisible.

Many disabilities, including this one, may not have outward signs—people can be significantly impacted even if they appear “fine” on the outside.

Common Challenges

  • Frequent bathroom breaks
  • Fatigue and low energy
  • Abdominal pain or discomfort
  • Need for flexible work hours
  • Risk of flare-ups during stressful periods
  • Difficulty with physical tasks, especially when symptoms are active
  • Managing symptoms during travel or long commutes

Practitioner Help

  • Assess the participant’s abilities and limitations
  • Help identify job roles that suit the person’s skills and physical needs
  • Recommend flexible work arrangements (e.g., remote work, flexible hours)
  • Provide strategies for managing symptoms during work (e.g., access to restrooms)
  • Support with building confidence in discussing the condition with employers if needed
  • Guide on managing stress, as it can worsen symptoms

Common Accommodations

  • Flexible working hours or part-time work
  • Access to a nearby restroom and break area
  • Allowing more breaks to manage anxiety or fatigue
  • A comfortable and supportive work environment to reduce stress
  • Modified job duties to accommodate physical limitations
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Notes

IBD is a lifelong condition, and the symptoms may come and go. Managing stress and following a treatment plan are essential for keeping symptoms under control. The condition can have a significant impact on daily life, including work. With the right accommodations, people with IBD can be successful in many job settings.

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World IBD day is observed May 19th

Video titled: Ask Mayo Clinic: Inflammatory Bowel Disease picture

Video titled: Managing Fatigue in IBD picture

Resources

  • Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) | healthdirect
  • About Crohn’s and colitis – Crohn’s & Colitis Australia (CCA)
  • Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) - Symptoms and causes - Mayo Clinic
Gastrointestinal conditions

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