Todays Health Concerns
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Crohn's disease is a chronic disorder that causes inflammation of the digestive tract. It is one of several diseases commonly referred to as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Crohn's diseases can involve inflammation of any area of the Gastrointestinal (GI) tract, from the mouth to the anus, but it most commonly affects the lower part of the small intestine. The inflammation causes severe diarrhea and abdominal pain that can be both painful and debilitating. Crohn's disease affects men and women equally. Most people are diagnosed with Crohn's between the ages of 20 and 30. Approximately 500,000 people in the U.S. suffer from Crohn's Disease.
Symptoms of Crohn's disease
Treatment Treatment for Crohn's disease depends on the severity of symptoms. Those with mild or no symptoms may not need treatment. Patients with Crohn's disease typically will experience periods with worsening of symptoms and periods with little or no symptoms. There is no cure for Crohn's disease. The goal of treatment is to reduce the inflammation which will reduce or eliminate symptoms. Treatment for Crohn's disease usually involves medication or, in some cases, surgery. Medications Anti-inflammatory medications are usually the first step in the treatment of Crohn's disease. Types of anti-inflammatory medications used include: Sulfasalazine, Asacol, Dipentum, or Pentasa. These work by reducing inflammation specifically in the intestine. Corticosteriods, such as Prednisone, are also used and act by reducing inflammation anywhere in your body. Immunosuppressant medications (drugs that suppress the imune system) are also used to treat Crohn's Disease. Antibiotics are used to treat any bacterial infection in the digestive tract. Anti-Diarrheal medications, such as Immodium, are used to treat diarrhea associated with Crohn's disease. Those who have a bout of severe diarrhea may need fluid replacement. Surgery When medications can no longer control symptoms, surgery may necessary. Nearly three of four people with Crohn's disease eventually need some type of surgery. Surgery is used to close fistulas, correct a blockage, remove scar tissue, or to remove a damaged portion of your digestive tract. One of the most common surgeries for Crohn's is called strictureplasty. It's a procedure that widens a segment of the intestine that has become too narrow. Self-care Although you may feel helpless if you've been diagnosed with Crohn's disease, there are changes you can make to your diet and lifestyle that may help to control your symptoms. There is no evidence that diet has any effect on Crohn's disease itself. You may however find that certain foods or beverages make your symptoms worse. It's a good idea to eliminate those items, especially during flare-ups. Eating smaller more frequent meals may also help. Instead of eating 3 big meals, try eating 5 or 6 smaller meals. Drink plenty of fluids but try to avoid or limit beverages that contain caffeine since they stimulate the intestines. Talk to a dietitian if you begin to lose weight or your diet has become very limited. Try to manage your stress. Stress can trigger flare-ups and make your symptoms worse. Unfortunately we can't always avoid stressful events or situations but you can learn how to control your response to stress. Try some relaxation techniques. Maybe take some yoga classes or practice at home using books or tapes. Get regular exercise. Just taking a walk each day can help reduce your stress, relieve depression and normalize bowel function. Set time aside for yourself each day. Find a few minutes each day just for you. Do something that relaxes you such as reading, doing a puzzle, listening to music, playing with your pet, or taking a nice bubble bath. It is also very important to educate yourself about Crohn's Disease. Learning as much as you can about your disease can make you feel more in control. Go to the library, the book store, or visit internet sites about Crohn's Disease. There are also many organizations, such as the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America (CCFA), that have chapters set up across the country to provide information and access to support groups. When you visit your doctor, ask questions. No question is stupid and you'll feel so much better once you have the answer. |
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