Crohn's disease is a debilitating disease, with approximately 33,000 newly diagnosed cases each year. Learn more about the signs, symptoms, and treatment of Crohn's disease today.

Crohn's disease is a chronic condition that primarily affects the digestive system. Although many people who develop an inflammatory bowel disease, like Crohn's, lead normal lives, some suffer debilitating symptoms. Fortunately, there are many treatment options that can relieve the symptoms of this chronic condition. But first, it is critical to understand the signs and symptoms. Keep reading to learn more about the signs, symptoms, and treatments of Crohn's Disease. 

Symptoms of Crohn's Disease

Most people develop Crohn's disease as young adults. Symptoms typically appear between the ages of 15 and 30, but in some cases, Crohn's disease may not be diagnosed until much later in life. Crohn's disease symptoms often occur as flares and may be worse at times and then go into remission. In fact, many Crohn's patients experience symptoms and flares for months or years before they are diagnosed. 

Symptoms of Crohn's disease include:

• Abdominal pain
• Bloating
• Gas
• Exhaustion
• Fever
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Nausea
• Pain when using the bathroom
• Blood in stools
• Weight loss

In addition to these symptoms, Crohn's disease may also cause pain and discomfort in other parts of the body, including: 

• Swollen eyes
• Joint disorders
• Liver disease
• Kidney stones
• Inflamed gums
• Rashes
• Headaches

Although doctors do not know the exact cause of Crohn's disease, it's believed that both genetic and environmental factors cause it. For example, smokers are a high-risk group for developing Crohn's and people with immediate family members who have been diagnosed. 

Treatments for Crohn's Disease

Although there is no cure for Crohn's disease, various treatments are available to help you manage your symptoms and control flare-ups. Many people find that a combination of treatment, lifestyle changes, and diet plans can help keep their symptoms under control and improve quality of life. In severe cases, you may need surgery to remove a part of the damaged intestine and reduce inflammation.

Medications for Crohn's Disease

An effective treatment plan will help you extend your remission periods and improve your symptoms. Medications commonly prescribed for Crohn's disease include steroids and anti-inflammatory drugs. Drugs that suppress the immune system are frequently prescribed alongside steroids. These drugs help prolong the remission periods of Crohn's disease. Most healthcare providers try to avoid prescribing medicines for an extended period due to potential side effects. For example, steroids can help to suppress the immune system and reduce swelling; however, they can also cause swelling in the face, insomnia, acne, mood swing, and weight gain. 

Positive Lifestyle Changes for Crohn's Disease

Making adjustments to your eating habits can help to keep your Crohn's flares under control. Its also helpful to keep a diary of your dietary and fluid intake to help identify any foods or drinks that may be causing flares. Being aware of your triggers can help you better manage your condition. For example, if you have trouble digesting lactose, you should avoid milk, cheese, and other dairy products.

Because Crohn's disease can put you at significant risk for weight loss and malnutrition, it's essential to have a healthy and nutritious diet. It's also important to drink water often, to ensure that you don't get dehydrated. Rather than eating large meals, you should aim to eat smaller nutritious meals throughout the day.

In addition to eating a Crohn's-friendly diet, there are also some lifestyle changes you can make to help you manage your Crohn's symptoms and flares. Some people may benefit from taking additional nutritional supplements to ensure they receive an adequate amount of iron, calcium, vitamin D, and vitamin B-12. It's vital that you discuss dietary changes and supplements with your healthcare provider. Some supplements may interfere with prescription medication, so you must seek the advice of a doctor before adding them to your daily routine. 

Surgery for Crohn's Disease

In some instances, surgery may be necessary to treat bowel obstructions, abscesses, and fistulas safely. Bowel resection surgery is a type of procedure that involves removing part of the intestine to remove an intestinal blockage or to drain abscesses. Although Crohn's disease is a chronic condition and there is no known cure, these surgeries can alleviate some of the symptoms and complications associated with the condition and help to reduce inflammation. 

Are you living with symptoms of Crohn's disease? You do not have to suffer in silence. With the right treatment and care, people with Crohn's disease can enjoy a comfortable and fulfilled life.