For Some People Living With Inflammatory Bowel Disease, Finding The Right Treatment Can Take Time.
Olivia knows that journey well. After being diagnosed with severe ulcerative colitis, her symptoms became so intense that she was experiencing dozens of bowel movements a day and repeated hospital visits. Eventually, Olivia connected with a new specialist who helped her access advanced treatment options — including participation in a clinical trial. That decision helped change the course of her disease.
Watch Olivia’s Story
Today, advances in medicine are expanding treatment options for people living with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.
In our two newest episodes of the Life Without Leaks podcast, Dr. Dubinsky discusses the latest approaches to treating IBD — including biologic therapies and other emerging treatments that are helping patients regain control of their lives. And Olivia shares her story about finally finding a treatment that changed her life.
If you’re experiencing persistent digestive symptoms or navigating the diagnostic process, understanding the steps involved can help you feel more confident and prepared.
NAFC has created a comprehensive guide to understanding the IBD diagnostic journey, including how testing works and what to expect when seeking care.
Download The IBD Diagnostic Guide
Learn all about IBD, why it’s important to get an early diagnosis, when to talk to your doctor, and how to get a referral. We also share tips on what to bring to your appointment, what questions you might ask, and share a detailed breakdown of what to expect.
Download the IBD Diagnostic Guide Here!
Listen To The Podcasts!
You can also listen to Olivia’s story and Dr. Dubinsky’s insights in our latest 2 episodes of Life Without Leaks.
30+ bathroom trips a day. Severe blood loss. Multiple ER visits.
Olivia shares what it was like to live through severe ulcerative colitis—and how close she came to losing her life before finally getting the right care.
Her story is intense, honest, and ultimately hopeful. Listen now.
“Mild” symptoms don’t always mean mild disease.
Dr. Marla Dubinsky joins us to explain why waiting can make things worse—and how modern therapies are changing outcomes for people with Crohn’s and ulcerative colitis.
She also tackles the stigma around urgency and leaks, and why patients shouldn’t have to accept them as part of life.
If you’ve been told to “wait and see,” this episode is worth your time. Listen now.
With the right information and support, many people with IBD are able to manage their disease and live full, active lives.
