Personal e Doctor

Crohn’s disease

Crohn’s disease is a type of Inflammatory Bowel Disease. It generally affects the intestines, but its physiological symptoms can show anywhere between the mouth to the anus.

Like many other complex diseases, the exact cause / trigger/ origin of Crohn’s disease are unknown but it has been shown to be linked to the body’s immune response. Crohn’s disease is a result of an immune response against one’s own body leading to chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract (GI). It is therefore, classified as an autoimmune disorder.

The onset of disease can occur at any age, but is typically found between the ages 15 – 35. There are different types of Crohn’s disease depending on the part of the GI tract that is affected.
Symptoms
Depending on the part of the GI tract that is affected, the symptoms vary. However there are some common symptoms that a patient suffering from Crohn’s Disease will face. They include:

-          Fever

-          Fatigue

-          Diarrhea

-          Appetite Loss

-          Weight Loss

-          Abdominal Pain

-          Pain while passing stool

Other symptoms are:

-          Liver Inflammation

-          Constipation

-          Mouth Ulcers

-          Fistulas

-          Skin lumps

-          Swollen gums

These are just some of the symptoms that come with Crohn’s Disease. They can range from mild to severe in intensity.

Treatment:
Crohn’s Disease has no cure. You can try and prevent it from occurring or treating it symptomatically will enhance your daily living. Here are few treatment methods that you can follow to treat Crohn’s Disease

Diet & Nutrition: Maintain a healthy balanced diet to ensure proper digestion.

Medications: Fiber Supplements, Laxatives (consult with physician before use), Aspirin, Ibuprofen.

Stress: Stress causes indigestion in some people. Stay calm, meditate. Consult with your doctor on how to deal with stress

Surgery: When all else fails, surgery is the last resort.