Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) in Singapore: Symptoms, Treatment & When to See a Specialist

Awareness of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is increasing in Singapore, as more individuals seek answers for chronic digestive issues. While the term IBD is often confused with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), they are fundamentally different. IBD, which includes Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, involves chronic inflammation of the digestive tract. In contrast, IBS is a functional disorder without inflammation or damage to the bowel tissue.

Understanding this distinction is crucial, especially as more people in Singapore are diagnosed with IBD at younger ages. Early detection and the right care from a dedicated inflammatory bowel disease specialist can make a significant difference in quality of life.

At The Gastroenterology Group, our team provides timely evaluation and long-term care tailored to each patient’s needs. If you’ve been searching for an IBD clinic in Singapore or wondering whether your symptoms require medical attention, this article will provide everything you need to know about diagnosis, treatment and ongoing care.

What Is Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)?

Inflammatory bowel disease refers to a group of chronic conditions, including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, that cause inflammation in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. While both conditions involve inflammation, they differ in location and depth of tissue involvement.

Ulcerative colitis affects only the colon and causes inflammation on the inner lining of the colon. This inflammation can lead to ulcers.

Crohn’s disease, on the other hand, can affect any part of the digestive system, from the mouth to the anus. It causes deeper inflammation that can go through the entire thickness of the bowel wall, which may lead to complications like strictures, fistulas, or abscesses.

Common symptoms of IBD include:

  • Persistent abdominal pain and cramping
  • Chronic diarrhoea (sometimes with blood)
  • Fatigue and weakness
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Loss of appetite


If left untreated, IBD can severely impact day-to-day activities, work, relationships and mental health. It may also lead to complications such as bowel obstruction, fistulas and increased colorectal cancer risk. Recognising these symptoms early and seeking proper care is essential for long-term well-being.

Common Causes and Risk Factors

While the exact cause of IBD is still being researched, IBD is caused by a combination of factors, including genetic predisposition, changes in the gut microbiome, abnormal immune system responses, and environmental influences

  • Genetic predisposition: IBD tends to run in families, especially Crohn’s disease (CD) more than ulcerative colitis (UC). First-degree relatives of people with IBD have up to five times higher risk of developing the disease compared to those without a family history.
  • Dysregulated immune response: IBD is an immune-mediated disease that arises from an overactive mucosal immune response against gut microorganisms in genetically susceptible individuals
  • Environmental triggers:
    Certain dietary habits may be associated with a lower risk of IBD:
    • Lower intake of red meat and higher consumption of fish.
    • Increase consumption of plant-based foods, including fruits and vegetables.
    • Adequate vitamin D intake through diet or Supplementation.
    • Reduce consumption of ultra-processed food

  • Smoking: Avoid smoking.
  • Antibiotics: Use antibiotics as recommended by healthcare providers. However, unnecessary use, particularly in early life, should be avoided

IBD is most commonly diagnosed in individuals aged 15 to 35 years old but can occur at any age. If you’re in a high-risk group or have persistent digestive issues, consider visiting a gastroenterologist for a thorough evaluation.

When to See an Inflammatory Bowel Disease Specialist

If you experience symptoms such as ongoing abdominal pain, diarrhoea with blood or unexplained weight loss, it may be time to consult a Inflammatory Bowel Disease Specialist. General treatments may not always be sufficient, especially during repeated flare-ups.

An IBD specialist doctor can help assess whether your condition requires specialised care.

Look out for:

If you’re searching for an inflammatory bowel disease doctor near me, The Gastroenterology Group offers convenient access to experienced specialists. We provide a wide range of diagnostics and personalised treatment strategies tailored to your condition.

Diagnosis and Tests at an IBD Clinic in Singapore: The Gastroenterology Group

At our inflammatory bowel disease clinic, diagnosis begins with a detailed review of your medical history and symptoms.

Diagnostic tests may include:

Dr Webber Chan, an IBD specialist plays a key role in forming a long-term care plan. Based on your diagnosis, appropriate medications, dietary advice and follow-up care needed to manage your condition will be advised.

Treatment Options for IBD

The goal of IBD treatment is to reduce inflammation, manage symptoms and maintain remission.

Treatment plans are individualised and may include:

  • Anti-inflammatory medications (for example, mesalazine, steroids)to reduce intestinal inflammation
  • Immunosuppressants, biologics and small molecules for moderate-to-severely active IBD
  • Antibiotics to treat complications such as abscesses
  • Nutritional support to address deficiencies and promote gut healing
  • Surgical options including bowel resection and strictureplasty for severe or non-responsive cases


Lifestyle adjustments, stress reduction and regular follow-up with your gastroenterologist can also help maintain long-term remission and minimise flares.

Why Choose The Gastroenterology Group

The Gastroenterology Group is a dedicated gastroenterology clinic that provides inflammatory bowel disease service, offering personalised care for every patient. We are home to experienced IBD specialists including Dr Webber Chan, who has expertise in IBD gastroenterology in Singapore.

Why patients choose us:

  • Dedicated Care: Every patient is treated with empathy and respect, ensuring a supportive experience from diagnosis to treatment. Our team is committed to walking alongside you in your IBD journey with understanding and professionalism.
  • Evidence-Based Services: We uphold standard of care using evidence-based practices and diagnostic tools to ensure accurate assessments and effective management of inflammatory bowel disease.
  • Patient-Centered Approach: Our care is tailored to each patient’s individual condition and lifestyle needs. We create personalised treatment plans that support your long-term health and quality of life.

Whether you need a second opinion or long-term care, our clinic is ready to support you on your journey to digestive health.

Frequently Asked Questions about Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Is IBD curable?

No, IBD is a chronic condition, but it can be managed effectively with the right treatment and monitoring.

IBD involves inflammation and potential damage to the bowel, while IBS is a functional disorder without visible inflammation.

Yes, with good symptom control and planning, individuals with IBD can maintain an active lifestyle.

Yes, especially if you’ve had IBD for several years. Our doctor will advise on the frequency based on your risk factors.

Your Partner in Long-Term IBD Management

Whether you’re newly diagnosed or navigating ongoing symptoms, partnering with the right team can make a significant difference in managing inflammatory bowel disease. At The Gastroenterology Group in Singapore, our experienced team—including experienced inflammatory bowel disease doctors—provides dedicated care for both Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.

From initial diagnosis to tailored treatment, our goal is to support you with medical clarity, diagnostics and ongoing guidance. If you’ve been searching for an inflammatory bowel disease clinic near me, you’ll find personalised, specialist care here.

With a comprehensive range of services—from imaging and endoscopy to long-term care plans—we offer everything you need under one roof. At our inflammatory bowel disease clinic in SG, we understand how IBD can affect not just your digestive health, but your lifestyle too. That’s why we combine clinical expertise with comprehensive support, empowering you to manage symptoms and live actively.

Don’t wait for your symptoms to worsen. Book your appointment with an IBD specialist at The Gastroenterology Group Singapore today.

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