What you need to know about Crohn’s Disease
Read on to find out symptoms typically associated with Crohn’s Disease
Defining Crohn’s Disease
Crohn's disease is an inflammatory bowel disease that causes ulcers to form in the gastrointestinal tract. The
ulcers might be located from anywhere from the mouth to the anus. Stomach cramps, pain that comes and goes,
diarrhea, and blood in your stool are some of the symptoms you might experience with Crohn’s disease. Other
symptoms include losing weight, feeling sick to your stomach, having joint pain and feeling tired. It is important
to keep in mind that although many people who have Crohn's disease have severe symptoms, others have less severe
symptoms. In fact, some people who have the disease have long periods without symptoms while other more severe
cases will need long-term treatment or even surgery.
Crohn’s Disease Risk Groups
Although anyone can get Crohn's disease, it's more common in women, whites and Jewish people. Scientists have yet
to find a definitive cause for Crohn’s disease. Although it seems to run in families, there is no definable pattern
of inheritance.
Diagnosing Crohn’s Disease
The doctor will try to assess whether you have Crohn’s Disease by asking you about your symptoms. He or she might
have you undergo a complete exam to look for signs of the illness. If either the physical exam or survey indicate
that you might have Crohn's disease, your doctor may do some additional blood tests to confirm a diagnosis.
Although no blood test can prove you have Crohn's disease, your blood might show anemia, salt imbalance, vitamin
deficiency or increased signs of inflammation. These symptoms might all indicate signs of Crohn’s disease and help
your doctor reach a diagnosis more effectively.
Crohn’s Disease treatment options
Crohn’s disease treatment completely depends on the extent and severity of the disease and the location of the
ulcers in your gastrointestinal tract. Salicylates and certain antibiotics might help for mild cases of the
disease.
For those who have more severe disease, steroids are often prescribed. In more aggressive disease, steroids may be
used in conjunction with immunosuppressants. Other newer drugs might also be used alongside these drugs. If you
have very severe Crohn's disease, you may need to stay in the hospital. While surgery is sometimes needed, it does
not cure the disease.
What to expect after Crohn’s Disease Treatment
The success of treatment for Crohn's disease varies widely from person to person. Although there is no known cure
for the illness, many people have long periods without symptoms. You will need to check in with your doctor on a
regular basis to check for signs of active disease or any complications associated with the disease. Keep inmind
that people with long-term Crohn's disease may become depressed or have other mood disorders—these are problems you
should keep track of as well.
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