FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Do people with IBD (CD or UC) have a higher risk of contracting COVID-19?
Having IBD does not appear to increase the risk of COVID-19 infection
In light of COVID-19, do I need to change my IBD medication?
Stay on your existing therapies and stay in remission. Do not stop or adjust dose of your IBD medications without consulting your doctor
Should I take supplements like vitamin c or zinc to help prevent coronavirus?
There is no data to support their effectiveness to prevent coronavirus infection
What can I do to protect myself against COVID-19 as an IBD patient?
Follow guidelines for general population to prevent the spread of coronavirus
Continue taking your IBD medicines
If you are taking steroids, please consult your doctor about reducing your dose
Eat healthy foods that do not trigger your IBD
Exercise while maintaining social distance
Quit smoking
Maintain good sleep hygiene
Pay attention to your mental health
What should I do if I have Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis and develop COVID-19 symptoms?
Based on the treatments you are on, you may need to stop your therapy for a couple of weeks. Please do not stop your medicines without talking to your doctor first.
How do I know the difference between an IBD flare-up vs. COVID-19?
An IBD flare up and COVID-19 infection may have similar symptoms like loss of appetite, abdominal discomfort, diarrhea, etc.
Contact your doctor because there are testing options that can help distinguish the two
What should I do if I think I’m having an IBD flare-up?
Please get in touch with your doctor to check whether you require dose adjustment of current therapy or need to start new therapy to control flare-up
