Crohn’s Disease, A Relation Of IBD?

Crohn’s Disease is an inflammatory bowel disease that may affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract from mouth to anus. This article explores causes, relations, symptoms, and treatments for CD.

The causes of Crohn’s are unknown. Still, it is thought that CD is related to genetic and environmental factors. Crohn’s Disease can manifest at any age, typically between 15 and 30 years old. CD affects 1 in 200 Americans or about 700,000 people today, according to Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of America (CCFA).

Crohn’s And IBD

Crohn’s Disease is a type of Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that causes inflammation anywhere along the digestive tract to varying degrees. 

Both Crohns’ Disease and ulcerative colitis are types of IBD. However, CD symptoms are typically more severe than those of ulcerative colitis.

Crohn’s Disease symptoms:

• Diarrhea (loose or watery stools) for more than two days;
• Rectal bleeding;
• Fever lasting longer than one day;
• Abdominal pain that gets worse with eating;
• Weight loss for no apparent reason;
• Fatigue (tiredness); or
• Loss of appetite.

CD can cause inflammation and deep ulcers in the digestive system lining. Ulcers can form in any location but often affect the end of the small intestine (the ileum) and the beginning of the large intestine (the colon). Symptoms may vary depending on what part of the gastrointestinal tract is involved.

Crohn’s Disease can be fatal if the intestinal wall becomes perforated (a hole forms that allows bacteria in the abdomen).

Crohn’s Disease Treatment

There is no known cure for Crohn’s Disease, but treatments are available to help control the symptoms.

Treatment options include medications, surgery, or a combination of both. The goal of treatment is to reduce inflammation in the intestine and improve bowel function.

Medications used to treat Crohn’s Disease include anti-inflammatory drugs, immune system suppressors, antibiotics, and medicines to manage symptoms like abdominal pain.

Surgery may be necessary to remove damaged sections of the intestine or, in some cases, when the intestinal damage cannot be improved by medical treatment. 

Crohn’s Disease Prevention

The best way to prevent Crohn’s Disease is by eating nutritious food and drinking plenty of fluids each day while getting regular exercise. 

A Crohns’ diet should include fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, legumes or beans, healthy fats (olive oil, coconut oil), water & bone broth for hydration. Eating food free of gluten is suggested to help reduce inflammation. 

Negative lifestyle factors that affect Crohn’s Disease are diet, exercise, smoking, alcohol use, stress levels, and sleep patterns. 

Gastro Florida Can Help You With Crohn’s Disease

Do you need more information and care to help with your Crohn’s Disease symptoms? Gastro Florida’s team of professionals is here to help. Set up an appointment with us today, servicing several areas throughout Florida.