Crohn’s Disease
Crohn’s disease is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that can affect any part of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, from the mouth to the anus, but most commonly affects the end of the small intestine (the ileum) and the beginning of the colon. It causes inflammation of the GI tract, which can lead to severe diarrhea, abdominal pain, fatigue, weight loss, and malnutrition. At Digestive System Healthcare, our board-certified specialists are highly experienced in diagnosing and managing Crohn’s disease. If you are seeking treatment for Crohn’s disease, contact us to request a consultation.
What causes Crohn’s Disease?
The exact cause of Crohn’s disease is unknown, but it is believed to result from a combination of factors, including:
- Immune system: An abnormal immune response may cause the immune system to attack cells in the digestive tract.
- Genetics: People with a family history of Crohn’s disease are at higher risk.
- Environmental factors: Certain environmental factors, such as diet and exposure to specific microbes, may trigger the disease in genetically susceptible individuals.
- Smoking: Tobacco use increases the risk and severity of Crohn’s disease.
What are common symptoms of Crohn’s Disease?
Symptoms of Crohn’s disease can range from mild to severe and may develop gradually or come on suddenly. Common symptoms include:
- Abdominal pain and cramping: Often in the lower right quadrant of the abdomen.
- Diarrhea: Frequent, watery stools, sometimes with blood.
- Fatigue: Constant tiredness and lack of energy.
- Weight loss: Unintended weight loss and malnutrition.
- Fever: Low-grade fever and general malaise.
- Mouth sores: Ulcers in the mouth.
- Reduced appetite: Loss of appetite due to abdominal pain and cramping.
- Anal pain or drainage: From inflammation near the anus or fistulas.
How is Crohn’s Disease diagnosed?
Diagnosing Crohn’s disease typically involves a combination of tests and procedures:
- Blood tests: To check for anemia, infection, and inflammation markers.
- Stool tests: To rule out infections and check for blood in the stool.
- Endoscopy: Procedures such as colonoscopy or upper endoscopy to visualize the inside of the GI tract and take biopsies.
- Imaging studies: CT scans, MRI, or small bowel imaging to identify areas of inflammation, strictures, or fistulas.
- Capsule endoscopy: A swallowable camera pill that takes pictures of the small intestine.
What are the treatment options for Crohn’s Disease?
While there is no cure for Crohn’s disease, treatment aims to reduce inflammation, manage symptoms, and achieve and maintain remission. Treatment options include:
- Medications:
- Anti-inflammatory drugs: Such as corticosteroids to reduce inflammation.
- Immunosuppressants: To suppress the immune response.
- Biologics: Target specific proteins involved in inflammation.
- Antibiotics: To treat or prevent infections.
- Antidiarrheals and pain relievers: To manage symptoms.
- Nutrition therapy:
- Dietary changes: Identifying and avoiding trigger foods, eating smaller, more frequent meals, and ensuring proper hydration.
- Nutritional supplements: To address deficiencies and support overall health.
- Surgery:
- Resection: Removing damaged portions of the GI tract.
- Strictureplasty: Widening narrowed areas of the intestine.
- Abscess drainage or fistula repair: To address complications.
Managing Crohn’s Disease
Living with Crohn’s disease requires ongoing management and lifestyle adjustments:
- Medication adherence: Taking prescribed medications as directed by your healthcare provider.
- Regular check-ups: Attending follow-up appointments to monitor your condition and adjust treatment as necessary.
- Healthy lifestyle: Maintaining a balanced diet, regular exercise, and avoiding smoking.
- Stress management: Using relaxation techniques and support groups to manage stress.