Crohn’s Disease is one of the two main forms of Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBD) with the other being Ulcerative Colitis.

The inflammation and swelling of the digestive tract that affects the entire gastrointestinal system from the mouth to the anus is a characteristic of Crohn’s Disease. The condition can be chronic in nature and is prevalent across the world with more than 3 million people in the United States affected by it.

In this article, we will explore the disease in detail, its symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment options.

Crohn’s Disease Symptoms

Crohn’s Disease symptoms can vary from person to person. Some people may experience mild symptoms while others may have severe symptoms. Below are some of the common symptoms of this condition:.

• Diarrhea
• Abdominal pain, cramping, and bloating
• Blood in the stool
• Unintentional weight loss
• Fatigue and weakness
• Fever
• Persistent feeling of incomplete bowel movements

Causes of Crohn’s Disease

While there is no clear explanation for what causes Crohn’s Disease, there are some factors that could contribute to it:.

• Autoimmune reaction- The immune system may attack the healthy digestive tract lining mistakenly.
• Genetics – Crohn’s Disease may occur in families, and certain genes have been linked to the condition.
• Environmental Factors – People living in urban areas and developed countries are more likely to develop Crohn’s Disease.
• Smoking- People who smoke or use tobacco products are at a higher risk of developing the condition as compared to non-smokers.
• Use of Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)- NSAIDs usage may worsen the inflammation in the gut and could cause flare-ups of the disease.

Diagnosis of Crohn’s Disease

Diagnosis of Crohn’s Disease involves a series of tests, and it can take several weeks or months to confirm the condition. Below are some of the common tests used to diagnose Crohn’s Disease:.

Related Article The Facts About Crohn’s Disease

• Colonoscopy and Biopsy- A long, thin tube with a camera at one end is inserted into the rectum to look for signs of Crohn’s Disease in the colon and the small intestine. Then a small tissue sample is taken for further examination.
• Endoscopy – A small, flexible tube with a camera is inserted through the mouth to look for signs of Crohn’s Disease in the upper digestive tract, including the esophagus and stomach.
• Blood Tests – Blood is tested for inflammation and other markers associated with the disease.
• Stool test – A sample of stool is tested to check for the presence of blood and inflammation in the digestive tract.

Treatment of Crohn’s Disease

There is no cure for Crohn’s Disease, but several effective treatments can help reduce symptoms, control inflammation, and improve quality of life.

The type of treatment prescribed will depend on the severity of the condition and the individual’s response to treatment. Here are some of the treatment options for Crohn’s Disease:.

• Medications – Anti-inflammatory drugs and Immune System Suppressors medications may be prescribed by the doctor to control inflammation in the digestive tract.
• Nutrition Therapy – A special liquid diet may be recommended by the doctor to provide the nutrients the body needs without aggravating the digestive tract.
• Surgery – In severe cases, the doctor may recommend surgery to remove damaged parts of the digestive tract.
• Alternative Treatments – Acupuncture, yoga, and probiotics have been used by some people to manage symptoms of Crohn’s Disease.

Living with Crohn’s Disease

Crohn’s Disease can be overwhelming, but there are several things individuals living with the condition can do to manage it. Here are some tips on managing Crohn’s Disease:.

• Take medications as prescribed by the doctor.
• Eat a healthy, balanced diet and avoid foods that trigger symptoms of Crohn’s Disease.
• Avoid smoking and tobacco products.
• Manage stress levels through exercise and stress reduction techniques like meditation and deep breathing.
• Join a support group and learn from others who are dealing with Crohn’s Disease.

Conclusion

Crohn’s Disease is a chronic condition that affects the digestive system and can cause severe symptoms that severely impact an individual’s quality of life.

While there is no known cure, several effective treatments can help manage symptoms of the disease and improve outcomes for individuals living with this condition. By following a healthy lifestyle, taking medications as prescribed, and avoiding environmental triggers, it is possible to live a healthy and fulfilling life with Crohn’s Disease.