Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic condition characterized by ongoing inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, primarily including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Unlike irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), IBD involves structural damage and visible inflammation of the intestinal lining. Symptoms often include persistent diarrhea, abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, fatigue, weight loss, and reduced appetite. The exact cause is not fully understood but is believed to involve an abnormal immune response influenced by genetic and environmental factors. IBD typically follows a relapsing-remitting course, with periods of active flare-ups and remission, and may lead to complications such as strictures, fistulas, or an increased risk of colorectal cancer over time.