What is Crohn’s disease?
Crohn’s disease is a disorder that can cause diarrhea, belly pain, and other symptoms that affect the digestive tract. The digestive tract is the part of the body and takes in and breaks down food. It includes the mouth, the stomach, and the intestines.
When it is working normally, the body’s immune system kills germs and "bad" cells that could turn into cancer. Sometimes, instead of killing only bad cells, something goes wrong and the immune system starts to attack healthy cells. That is called an "autoimmune response." It is what happens in Crohn’s disease. If you have Crohn’s disease, your body is attacking the lining of the digestive tract. This causes inflammation, which can lead to sores (ulcers) and bleeding.
The symptoms of Crohn’s disease can get better or worse at different times. But the condition cannot be cured. Luckily, there are medicines and other treatments that can improve its symptoms.
What are the symptoms of Crohn’s disease?
The most common symptoms are diarrhea, belly pain, feeling tired, weight loss, and fever. Some people with Crohn’s disease also get mouth sores, skin rashes, joint pain, and eye redness.
Is there a test for Crohn’s disease?
Yes. There are a few tests that can help diagnose Crohn’s disease. Doctors use x-rays or scans to look at the upper intestine and a test called “colonoscopy” to look at the lower intestine. During a colonoscopy, the doctor puts a thin tube into your rectum and threads it up into your colon. The tube has a camera attached to it, so the doctor can look inside your colon.
Is there anything I can do on my own to feel better?
Yes. Your symptoms might improve if you:
- Cut down on foods that make your symptoms worse. Some people have problems with foods that have a lot of fiber, such as fruits and vegetables.
- Quit smoking, if you smoke. Smoking makes symptoms worse and increases the chances that you will need surgery.
- Avoid medicines such as ibuprofen and naproxen.
How is Crohn's disease treated?
There are many different medicines that help reduce the symptoms of Crohn’s disease. Almost all of these medicines work by reducing inflammation and the body’s immune response. Some medicines treat symptoms when they are at their worst. Other medicines help keep symptoms from starting up or coming back. Doctors sometimes also prescribe antibiotics to people with Crohn’s disease.
