Important Information Regarding Crohn's Disease

By Armand Zeiders


Crohn's disease, also referred to as regional enteritis or Crohn's syndrome, is a kind of chronic inflammatory bowel disorder that primarily affects the lower part of the small intestine called the ileum. It actually can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract starting from the mouth down to the anus and can also trigger complications outside. The illness was first thought to be an autoimmune problem; however, scientists have recently reclassified the disease that is a result of immune deficiency.

It is believed that about 500,000 Americans have to live with this condition that brings with it countless symptoms that more often than not causes weakening to a person. A few of the symptoms associated with Crohn's disease includes abdominal pains after eating, abnormal bowel movement, bleeding of the rectum and constipation, frequent fever, night sweats, fatigue, loss of appetite and weight loss. Diagnosis is especially challenging since most of the symptoms are similar to those of other ailments affecting the digestive system in general.

The main cause of Crohn's disease is still unidentified but majority of the known cases can be attributed to genes as far as scientific studies are concern. Research shows that immediate family members of a person with Crohn's disease such as siblings, parent, or children have higher chances of getting the same medical condition. The typical onset is between late teens and early thirties but can actually occur on any age with an increased number of occurrences for people between fifty to seventy years old.

No gender is safe from Crohn's disease, though, people who smoke tobacco products are more prone to catching the disease in comparison to those individuals that don't. Basically, anyone who wishes to have a healthy body should steer clear from smoking but it is especially crucial for people with Crohn's disease to cease this unhealthy habit as soon as possible. Scientists also believe that some microscopic organisms are responsible for this health issue. Aside from that, huge amounts of proteins from meat and dairy products can increase a person's risk from acquiring such ailment.

Currently, Crohn's disease is not curable but its symptoms can be managed with the help of some treatments. Changing one's unhealthy lifestyle has also proven beneficial for some in reducing some of the symptoms. Lifestyle changes such as eating small frequent meals instead of three heavy meals in a day can help affected people with low appetite get the nourishment they need. Fatigue can also be reduced with the help of regular exercise, right amount of sleep, plus a balanced diet.

Other methods used to manage the symptoms of Crohn's disease involve the use of medicines that have monoclonal antibodies. These medications with monoclonal antibodies also referred to as immunomodulators triggers an immune system response that has a counter effect to abnormalities of one's' immune system. Anti-inflammatory drugs as well as antibiotics and other alternatives are also given to patients in order to treat inflammation and infection on the gastrointestinal tract. It is still possible to lead a normal life with the help of early diagnosis and assistance from your physician.




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