What are the main triggers for IBD?

While the exact cause of IBD is unknown, the triggers involve a combination of genetic susceptibility, environmental factors, and immune system dysregulation. Things like smoking, certain medications like anti-inflammatories and antibiotics, and stress are known environmental triggers. Diet and infections can also play a role in flare-ups. Overall, IBD develops when these external factors interact with genetic risk, leading to abnormal immune responses in the gut.