Crohn’s disease is an inflammatory bowel disease that causes chronic inflammation of the intestinal tract. Once diagnosed, this condition must be managed for a lifetime to keep it in check and prevent other health complications from developing.
Symptoms of Crohn’s Disease
Crohn’s disease is a digestive disorder and condition of the gastrointestinal tract that can present with a variety of symptoms including:
- Abdominal pain
- Fatigue
- Loose stools
- Blood in stools
- Appetite challenges
Causes of Crohn’s Disease
In some cases of Crohn’s, there can be a genetic component to the development of the disease. Otherwise, it is thought to possibly have an autoimmune component. Symptoms can occur as flares and some of the flares can be triggered by certain foods, increased stress, or infections.
Crohn’s Disease Treatments
Treatment for Crohn’s disease may vary depending on the severity of the disease and symptoms, as well as frequency of flares. Avoiding some triggering foods can be helpful for some people with Crohn’s, as can reducing stress and maintaining an overall healthy lifestyle.
Some medications can bring down inflammation or suppress immune response, while other patients may need to undergo surgical procedures.
If you are suffering with ongoing gastrointestinal distress and pain, schedule an appointment with me, Dr. Maria Swetech, to discuss digestive disorders and undergo testing to reach a diagnosis.
Nothing in this blog is official medical advice. See your doctor for customized care.
