For more on this topic, see the next section on Diet and Inflammatory Bowel Disease. I nflammatory bowel disease may lead to changes in the intestine itself. People with Crohn's disease may have complications such as scarring and narrowing of the ileum, resulting in obstructions in which food becomes blocked and can't pass through the intestine. This may be dangerous and necessitate surgery. Infections may develop, but they can be corrected by antibiotics or surgery.
Toxic megacolon can be fatal unless corrected with surgery.
P eople who have had ulcerative colitis for more than 10 years have a slightly increased risk of developing colon cancer. The risk increases each year after that and therefore, annual diagnostic tests may be recommended. IBD can also lead to complications that don't appear related to the intestine. Diet, Medication and Surgery Diet E veryone needs a balanced diet, but for people with inflammatory bowel disease it's particularly important to get a full range of nutrients. As a result, the body doesn't digest certain essential vitamins, minerals and elements.