Chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
Individual therapy for a better quality of life
Our CED Center in Karlshorst focuses on the comprehensive care of patients with chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). We offer first-class diagnostics and treatment for ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. Our aim is to provide you with long-term symptom control and a life with few symptoms.
Symptoms of chronic inflammatory bowel disease
When should you see a doctor?
The symptoms of IBD can vary depending on the disease and the stage of the disease. Common symptoms are
- Persistent or recurrent diarrhea, often with blood or mucus
- Abdominal pain and cramps, usually after eating
- Unintentional weight loss and loss of appetite
- Tiredness, exhaustion and loss of performance
- Joint pain and skin changes as possible side effects
If these symptoms persist for a long time or keep recurring, you should seek medical advice.
Causes & risk factors of intestinal diseases
The exact causes of IBD are not fully understood, but there are several known contributing factors:
Genetic predisposition
Dysregulation of the immune system
The body attacks its own intestinal flora
Environmental factors
Smoking increases the risk of Crohn’s disease, while possibly alleviating ulcerative colitis
Intestinal flora & nutrition
Changes in intestinal bacteria and Western dietary habits can promote inflammation
Diagnostics
How do we ensure CED?
CT and MRI scans
In collaboration with external cooperation partners for detailed assessment of tumor spread
Colonoscopy
for the early detection of colon and rectal cancer
Laboratory tests
Ultrasound
of the intestine to assess the intestinal wall and any thickening
Our therapy center our cooperation partners
Internationally recognized study center for chronic inflammatory bowel diseases
At our Karlshorst site, we operate an internationally recognized study center for chronic inflammatory bowel diseases. Here, we offer patients innovative treatment approaches that go beyond the already approved therapies.
Our center participates in numerous clinical studies, giving our patients access to the latest treatment options.
Cooperation with renowned clinics
Our practice works closely with leading clinics in Berlin to provide you with comprehensive and specialized care:
- Elisabeth Herzberge Hospital
- DRK Hospital Köpenick
- Vivantes Hospital in Friedrichshain
- Vivantes Hospital Kaulsdorf
- Charité Berlin
Through these collaborations, we can offer you seamless care that includes both outpatient and inpatient treatment options. We cordially invite you to contact us to find out about your individual treatment options and to be looked after by our specialized team.
Treatment options
Individually tailored therapy
Drug therapy
- Anti-inflammatory drugs (e.g. mesalazine, cortisone) for relapse control
- Immunosuppressants & biologics for long-term disease control
- Antibiotics if bacterial infections play a role
Nutrition & lifestyle optimization
- Individual nutritional advice to reduce complaints
- Stress management & lifestyle changes to prevent relapses
Surgical interventions
- If necessary: Minimally invasive operations to remove severely affected sections of bowel
- Stricturoplasty to widen intestinal constrictions
With the right therapy and consistent care, most patients can live symptom-free for a long time. Regular check-ups are important in order to recognize the progression of the disease at an early stage and adapt the therapy accordingly.
Crohn’s disease vs. ulcerative colitis
The differences
Although both diseases belong to the group of chronic inflammatory bowel diseases, they differ in several respects:
Crohn's disease
- Can affect the entire digestive tract (from the oral cavity to the anus)
- Inflammation penetrates all layers of the intestinal wall
- Frequent formation of constrictions (stenoses) or fistulas
- Symptoms: Cramp-like abdominal pain, weight loss, diarrhea, fever
Ulcerative colitis
- Restricted to the large intestine
- Inflammation only affects the mucous membrane
- The disease often begins in the rectum and spreads upwards
- Symptoms: Bloody diarrhea, strong urge to defecate, cramp-like pain in the left lower abdomen
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Can IBD be cured?
No, but modern therapies can reduce relapses and significantly improve quality of life.
Are the examinations painful?
What role does nutrition play?
Office hours and contact
You can contact us by phone, e-mail or via our online form to make an appointment or ask questions. Our practice is located at Ehrenfelsstraße 47, 10318 Berlin.
You can reach us by public transportation or by car. There are plenty of parking spaces nearby.
Specialist gastroenterology practice Karlshorst
Ehrenfelsstraße 47, 10318 Berlin
Phone: 030 5293310
Fax: 030 52279798
karlshorst@gastroenterologie-brunk.de
Opening hours
Mon., Tue. & Wed.: 07:30 – 15:30
Thurs.: 07:30 – 17:30
Fri.: 07:30 – 15:30
or by appointment!