If you know someone with Crohn’s disease, or you have it yourself, you know about the dramatic effect it can have on your life. It is a type of inflammatory bowel disease or IBD which causes severe inflammation of your digestive tract.
In severe cases, it can be debilitating and life-threatening. The Centers for Disease Control, CDC, estimate that between 26 and 199 people per 100,000 suffer from Crohn's disease. Most people with Crohn's disease develop it when they are between the ages of 15 and 40, however, people of any age can develop the condition.
The fact is, Crohn’s disease is complicated, producing a variety of symptoms including severe intestinal and stomach pain. In addition to severe pain, Crohn’s disease often produces signs and symptoms like these:
- Ulcers in your intestines
- Chronic fever and fatigue
- Blood in your stool
- Reduced appetite and weight loss
- Abdominal cramping and diarrhea
Crohn’s disease also affects other areas of your body, producing additional signs and symptoms, including:
- Irritated eyes
- Mouth sores
- Skin inflammation
- Joint pain and inflammation
The exact cause of Crohn’s disease is unknown, but it may have a hereditary component, or be caused by an overactive immune system. The good news is, Crohn’s disease can be effectively managed by your gastroenterologist. Treatment for Crohn’s disease may include:
- Tests to check for anemia and other nutritional deficiencies
- Vitamin and nutrient supplementation
- Corticosteroid medications to reduce digestive system inflammation
- Immunosuppressive medications to reduce inflammation and symptoms
- Antibiotics to eliminate bacteria which may be causing an infection
Severe cases of Crohn’s disease may require surgery. Your gastroenterologist may discuss surgical treatment with you if it is recommended in your case.
The diagnosis and treatment of Crohn’s disease requires the services and knowledge of an expert, your gastroenterologist. To find out more about the causes, signs, symptoms, and treatment of Crohn’s disease and other gastrointestinal disorders, talk with your gastroenterologist today!