Crohn's Disease, a type of IBD, which causes inflammation of the digestive tract. This type of IBD does not have a specific cause, but genetics and environmental factors can play a role in bringing about this condition. This article will explore some basic facts about this type of IBD and how to navigate living with this condition.
Who Does Crohn's Disease Effect
Crohn's Disease can affect both children and adults. It usually affects more men than women, and it is diagnosed most commonly from adolescence to early adulthood. It may affect all races equally, but caucasians are more likely to develop Crohn's Disease than non-caucasian ethnic populations.
It is encouraging to note that Crohn's Disease is rare in small or infant children. The most common age of diagnosis is between the ages of thirteen and twenty-five years old.However, Crohn's Disease symptoms are usually more severe for people over fifty.
What Are Common Crohn's Disease Symptoms
The symptoms of Crohn's Disease vary depending on which part of the digestive tract is inflamed and how severe the inflammation is. Crohn's Disease can affect any part of the digestive tract, from the mouth to the anus, but it most commonly affects the end of the ileum (the last part of the small intestine) and or the colon (the large intestine).
Crohn's Disease symptoms include:
- Abdominal pain
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Rectal bleeding
- Anemia due to blood loss through bowel movements
- Ulcers on skin creases around genitals or the anus
Crohn's Disease may cause weight loss, fever, fatigue, arthritis, or growth retardation for children.
Crohn's Disease Treatments, Is It Curable?
There is no known cure for Crohn's Disease; however, there are ways to manage Crohn's, such as minimizing the effects with medications or avoiding high fiber food that could worsen Crohn's symptoms. Instead, it's recommended to consume foods that contain soluble fiber, which soaks up extra fluid in your gut.
Parenting a child who has Crohn's Disease can be frustrating and worrying since it is a chronic illness. All children with Crohn's Disease should monitor their growth because it may affect their development.
It is essential to talk with your pediatrician or gastroenterologist about ways to help your child maintain healthy habits, such as eating well-balanced meals and getting enough sleep every night.
Remember, Crohn's Disease does not fade into remission on its own, meaning that there is no cure for Crohn's, yet it can certainly be managed with medication and other treatment options.
When Is It Time To See A Gastroenterologist
Good news! The first step toward successful Crohn's Disease treatment is recognition. Crohn's Disease should never be ignored, but seeking medical diagnosis and Crohn's Disease treatment early on will significantly improve your chances of successfully managing it for years.
Your gastroenterologists may prescribe medications and a specific diet plan, including whole grains, fresh fruits, and vegetables, low-fat dairy products, lean meats, poultry, beans/legumes, fish/seafood, eggs, nuts/seeds.
GI Associates Can Help You With Crohn’s Disease
GI Associates provides care for both types of IBD, don’t live in pain, now is the best time to set up an appointment. Contact us today if you'd like to see a physician or have more questions. We treat all gastrointestinal issues and disorders with quality, comprehensive care.
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