One of the most common forms of inflammatory bowel ailment is known as Crohn's disease. The condition often affects the intestines, but may occur anywhere in the digestive track, including the mouth or anus. It is closely related to the condition known as 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.
When suffering from Crohn's disease, individuals should speak with a doctor concerning the best treatment to manage their condition. Medical care providers can diagnose, offer healthy eating tips and medication to manage the symptoms. The symptoms can be managed in order to allow one to lead a more normal 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.
When suffering from Crohn's disease, individuals should speak with a doctor concerning the best treatment to manage their condition. Medical care providers can diagnose, offer healthy eating tips and medication to manage the symptoms. The symptoms can be managed in order to allow one to lead a more normal life.
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