Inflammatory bowel diseases are serious conditions on their own. But they also can lead to life-threatening complications that may extend to organs beyond the digestive system — even to the heart.

Symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) can be painful and interfere with a good quality of life. Recent research suggests that IBD symptoms may also be linked to heart health.

Damage from smoking can creep below our lungs. Our stomachs can hurt, the pain can spread into the colon, and the pain can stay even if we quit.