Crohn's disease is one form of inflammatory bowel ailment. While the condition often affects one's intestines, it may occur anywhere along the digestive tract from the mouth to the anus. It is closely related to ulcerative colitis.
At this time, doctors are still unable to pinpoint the specific cause of the development of the disorder. It is known to be an autoimmune condition. These disorders involve the immune system destroying otherwise healthy tissue.
The condition is considered chronic (lasting more than six months) and causes inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract. Symptoms developed are dependant upon the portion of one's GI tract affected. They can be mild or severe and may improve and then get worse again as the condition flares up again. Symptoms can include fatigue, abdominal pain, fever, loss of appetite, painful bowel movements, weight loss and watery diarrhea.
Numerous factors increase the chances of a person developing the problem. Individuals of Jewish descent, with a family history of the condition or other genetic factors may be more prone to the problem. The systems of some individuals are more likely to overreact to the normal flora of the digestive tract. Smoking can increase one's chances of its development. Individuals between the ages of 15 and 35 are more likely to suffer a first attack, although it can strike at any age.
An abdominal mass or tenderness may be the presenting problem. The exam may also reveal swollen joints, skin rashes or mouth ulcers. The doctor may choose many diagnostic tools to determine the underlying cause. These include CT scans, endoscopy and barium enemas. Stool cultures are often ordered to rule out other conditions.
The condition may be managed by choosing a well-balanced and healthy diet and avoiding certain foods that may make it worse. Individuals should seek to reduce their stress levels, including worry about the bowel condition itself. Over the counter medications, such as Imodium, psyllium powder or methylcellulose may also be used. There are other medications that the doctor can prescribe that may be helpful. Since the condition can lead to anemia, sufferers may need Vitamin B12 or iron supplements to improve their health. In some cases, in individuals who have this condition, surgery may be needed.
Individuals suffering from Crohn's disease should talk with their doctor about their best approach to treatment and management. Medical providers can diagnose, provide medication and offer healthy eating tips for better management. Controlling the condition can improve one's quality of life.
At this time, doctors are still unable to pinpoint the specific cause of the development of the disorder. It is known to be an autoimmune condition. These disorders involve the immune system destroying otherwise healthy tissue.
The condition is considered chronic (lasting more than six months) and causes inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract. Symptoms developed are dependant upon the portion of one's GI tract affected. They can be mild or severe and may improve and then get worse again as the condition flares up again. Symptoms can include fatigue, abdominal pain, fever, loss of appetite, painful bowel movements, weight loss and watery diarrhea.
Numerous factors increase the chances of a person developing the problem. Individuals of Jewish descent, with a family history of the condition or other genetic factors may be more prone to the problem. The systems of some individuals are more likely to overreact to the normal flora of the digestive tract. Smoking can increase one's chances of its development. Individuals between the ages of 15 and 35 are more likely to suffer a first attack, although it can strike at any age.
An abdominal mass or tenderness may be the presenting problem. The exam may also reveal swollen joints, skin rashes or mouth ulcers. The doctor may choose many diagnostic tools to determine the underlying cause. These include CT scans, endoscopy and barium enemas. Stool cultures are often ordered to rule out other conditions.
The condition may be managed by choosing a well-balanced and healthy diet and avoiding certain foods that may make it worse. Individuals should seek to reduce their stress levels, including worry about the bowel condition itself. Over the counter medications, such as Imodium, psyllium powder or methylcellulose may also be used. There are other medications that the doctor can prescribe that may be helpful. Since the condition can lead to anemia, sufferers may need Vitamin B12 or iron supplements to improve their health. In some cases, in individuals who have this condition, surgery may be needed.
Individuals suffering from Crohn's disease should talk with their doctor about their best approach to treatment and management. Medical providers can diagnose, provide medication and offer healthy eating tips for better management. Controlling the condition can improve one's quality of life.
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