What is Crohn’s disease?
Crohn’s disease is a chronic condition that causes inflammation of any part of the intestines or digestive tract, particularly the colon and ileum. It may also be referred to as ileitis or enteritis and may affect any or all parts of your gut, from your mouth to the anus.
What are the symptoms of Crohn’s disease?
Crohn’s disease usually appears as digestive distress. Examples of symptoms include:
- Chronic diarrhea, loose stools, or stools containing blood or pus
- Fever
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fullness in the abdomen
- Rectal bleeding
- Pain and tenderness in the abdomen
You may experience other inflammation as a result of Crohn’s disease, including in the eyes, joints, and skin. Gallstones and kidney stones can be a side effect of Crohn’s disease, too.
What causes Crohn’s disease?
The reason your immune system goes haywire and results in Crohn's disease is unclear. It seems to be caused by the immune system attacking normally healthy bacteria, food, or viruses in the gut.
You’re at greater risk if someone in your family has the disease or has ulcerative colitis, another bowel disorder. You’re usually diagnosed with Crohn’s diseases before age 30, and it affects you for your entire life.
How is Crohn’s disease diagnosed?
Dr. Rayapudi performs a thorough exam and health history review to help inform his diagnosis. He takes particular care to distinguish Crohn’s from other inflammatory diseases of the gut.
He may have you undergo any of the following tests:
- Colonoscopy to check the colon and rectum
- Upper endoscopy to look at the esophagus, upper intestine, and stomach
- Capsule endoscopy to analyze the small intestines
Blood tests, stool samples, and special X-rays also offer diagnostic information for Crohn’s disease.
How is Crohn’s disease treated?
No cure for Crohn’s disease exists, but you can manage symptoms to have a better quality of life. Therapies include:
- Anti-inflammatory drugs and corticosteroids
- Antidiarrheal drugs
- Medications that modify the immune system
- Antibiotics
- Biologic therapies
Dr. Rayapudi can also help you modify your diet and avoid triggers. Soft, bland foods are less likely to cause digestive distress than spicy, high-fiber choices, especially when you’re experiencing a flare-up.
To learn more about Crohn’s disease and your health, call Gastro Health or book an appointment online today.
