Could this be IBD: Gastroenterology referral, weight gain and big stomach?

Hi, I’d really appreciate advice about my symptoms.

I’m concerned about weight gain, which is on my abdomen. It feels hard, looks swollen and very uncomfortable. I am having digestive problems, so eating less than before. I wondered if weight gain is associated with IBD at all? From what I have read IBD causes weight loss.

I’ve been referred to gastro after 2 positive calprotectin tests, and GP said it could be IBD. I’ve also had CT of abdomen pelvis, as GP wanted to check my pancreas. Blood tests are normal but I do have a few different health issues.

[Shoeysmum]

As you say, weight gain is not associated with IBD. I was diagnosed a few years ago although I didn't, sadly, lose weight.

The usual symptoms are lots of mucus in your poo, loose poo, red blood in your poo and several trips daily to the toilet for the aforementioned. It's usually diagnosed via a colonoscopy.

[Frasina]

Unlikely to be IBD as in most cases it does link to weight loss (rather than gain) possibly due to the amount of toilet trips people endure before being diagnosed. I have had IBS 25 years but IBD (pancolitis) since last Sept only.... I dropped a stone in a month yet I would normally take 6 months of dieting to lose the same amount of weight! You will need a colonoscopy as this is the only way you will know for sure if you have IBD.

[MrsOuchie]

They referred you most likely because unexplained weight gain can be a sign of a carcinoid tumor..or a GIST. Gist tumors can cause IBD symptoms and unexplained weight gain/loss.