Crohn's Disease

What is Crohn's disease?
Crohn's disease is an inflammatory condition that affects the digestive tract. This condition can lead to digestive discomfort, abdominal pain, fatigue, and weight loss. Inflammation caused by Crohn's disease can involve different parts of the digestive tract. There is not currently a cure for Crohn's disease, but there are various therapeutic interventions that can help.   

What are the symptoms of Crohn's disease?
Crohn's disease may involve the small or large intestine. Common symptoms include:

• Diarrhea
• Bloody stool
• Fatigue
• Fever
• Abdominal discomfort and pain
• Weight loss
• Reduction in appetite

What causes Crohn's disease?
The cause of Crohn's disease is not entirely understood. Heredity and immune system may play a role in a person's likelihood of developing Crohn's disease. Crohn's disease is an autoimmune disease, meaning the immune system attacks itself when a flare-up occurs. Certain bacterias or viruses may trigger the immune system and cause the development of Crohn's disease. Having an immediate family member with Crohn's disease can make a person more likely to develop it, but many people who develop the disease do not have family members with the disease. It was once believed that diet and stress could be causes of Crohn's disease. These factors are identified as triggers for a flare-up in individuals diagnosed rather than a cause of the disease.   

How do you treat Crohn's disease?
There is no true cure for Crohn's disease. However, some therapies can help with symptoms. The goal of treatment for Crohn's disease is to reduce symptoms, minimize flare-ups, and reduce the risk of long-term complications. Different medications may be prescribed to help treat Crohn's disease, including anti-inflammatory drugs, immune system suppressors, biologics, and antibiotics. Some patients may also use antidiarrheals and pain relievers during flare-ups. Special diets can also help relieve symptoms of Crohn's disease and improve long-term outcomes. Doctors may recommend surgery as a last resort if no other therapies work. Surgery to help treat Crohn's disease typically involves removing a damaged portion of the digestive tract.