Chronic Disease Preparedness

Archive for the ‘Crohn’s disease’ Category

Over-active immune response that fails to differentiate between pathogenic invaders and healthy tissue is the definition of an autoimmune disorder. Crohn’s is an autoimmune disease that affects around half a million people in the US. Known as an inflammatory bowel disorder, it tends to erupt in in patches with different areas of the digestive tract affected in different people.

While the causes of Crohn’s are unknown, and there is no cure, individuals generally learn ways to avoid triggering the worst symptoms. Seeking treatment is important, because Crohn’s will disrupt normal digestion, possibly leading to nutrient deficiencies, and there are several medications and surgeries used to resolve the worst symptoms. Many cases are first noticed by doctors through physical examination, and there are a number of tests that can confirm preliminary diagnosis.

## What are the Symptoms of Crohn’s Disease?
Though it shows up in different places for different people, there are some common symptoms of Crohn’s disease. Some may be persisting symptoms, while others tend to come and go with flare-ups. It is believed that many suffering the disease go untreated, because symptoms are mild enough to be mistaken for more common infections. Persistent or recurring symptoms from the following list should be investigated.
- Abdominal cramps
- Unexplained weight loss
- Painful defecation and/or blood in stool
- Fatigue
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Fever
In cases that show frequent symptoms, the affected part of the digestive system can form a hole, or fistula, that extends to other parts of the body. This will cause secondary symptoms that can only be remedied by removing the damaged tissue.

## What is the Most Effective Treatment?
The first step in treating the disease requires diagnosis and understanding what parts of the digestive system are being attacked. Patients may begin keeping food and medicine journals to find out whether certain types of food or over-the-counter drugs trigger flare-ups. Obtain a list of known triggers from the doctor to place at the start of the journal. Eating a diet high in fiber is generally recommended to relieve symptoms, and maintaining physical fitness is important for stopping fatigue and loss of lean muscle.

Doctors have several options available for treating symptoms and preventing secondary symptoms altogether. They will also test to determine whether supplements are necessary. However, the most effective way to manage the majority of Crohn’s symptoms is through carefully chosen foods and exercise.