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Crohn’s Disease
Abdominal pain, diarrhea, discomfort: familiar symptoms for those who suffer from inflammatory bowel diseases. Crohn’s disease falls under this category, affecting up to half a million adults in the USA alone, primarily those between the ages of 20 and 30.
Crohn's disease symptoms can be severe enough to interfere with daily life. Though painful at times, fortunately there are treatments available to soothe the fiery symptoms of this colon disorder.
What is Crohn’s Disease?
An inflammatory disease that can take hold of any part of the gastrointestinal tract, Crohn’s disease most commonly affects the intestines. Usually a person with this condition will have diarrhea, swelling of the gastrointestinal tract, and mild to severe abdominal cramping. However there are a host of other symptoms that can be associated with Crohn’s disease.
Signs and Symptoms
The following symptoms can range from mild to severe. At times a person with Crohn’s disease may not experience any symptoms at all, and at times they can be so severe that hospitalization is necessary.
- Bloody stools
- Reduced appetite and weight loss
- Abdominal pain
- Diarrhea
- Ulcers
- Fever
- Fatigue
If experiencing the more serious symptoms, including bloody stools or a prolonged fever, one should visit their doctor immediately for treatment.
Causes of Crohn’s Disease
There is no single cause of Crohn’s disease. Some groups, such as white young adults, are more prone to contracting this disorder than others.
Heredity - A genetic connection has been drawn, because approximately 20% of patients experiencing Crohn’s disease have close relatives who also suffered from this at some point. Scientists are currently researching the genetics behind it, in search of a cure.
Immune System - It’s also possible for Crohn’s disease to come about as a result of a bacterial infection. When the immune system battles the bacteria, the gastrointestinal tract can become inflamed, particularly if one partakes in a high-fat diet and stressful lifestyle.
Risk Factors
- Age – Crohn’s disease is most common among adults between the ages of 20-30
- Cigarette smoking
- Living in an urban or developing area
- High-fat diet
- Certain acne medications
While some of these risk factors are things that people can change, such as quitting cigarette smoking and eating a healthy diet, others are just luck of the draw, and can lead to Crohn’s disease. Fortunately there are treatment options available.
Treatments for Crohn’s Disease
Usually Crohn’s disease is treated with prescription medications, to reduce the painful inflammation and address any other side effects of this. Anti-inflammatory drugs, such as corticosteroids, are one option to reduce swelling and pain.
Antibiotics may be used if it’s determined that the Crohn’s disease symptoms are a result of a bacterial infection. The third type of medication that is prescribed is autoimmune suppressors, which reign in the immune system’s response to infections and curb the inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract.
In addition, the following self-care options can help bring relief:
- Laxatives
- Pain relievers
- Healthy diet
- Vitamin B-12 shots
- Calcium and vitamin D supplements
To avoid contracting Crohn’s disease in the first place, a healthy diet free from cigarettes, alcohol, and fatty foods can also help.
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