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CROHN'S DISEASE

A chronic inflammatory bowel disease that causes scarring and thickening of the intestinal walls and frequently leads to obstruction. It is rare, fewer than 200,000 US cases per year. Treatment can help, but this condition can't be cured. It  requires a medical diagnosis and lab tests or imaging is often required. Crohn's disease can sometimes causes life-threatening complications. Crohn's disease can cause abdominal pain, diarrhea, weight loss, anemia, and fatigue. Some people may be symptom free most of their lives, while others can have severe chronic symptoms that never go away. Crohn's disease cannot be cured. Medications such as steroids and immunosuppressants are used to slow the progression of disease. If these aren't effective, a patient may require surgery. Additionally, patients with Crohn's disease may need to receive regular screening for colorectal cancer due to increased risk.

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Crohn’s disease nutrition

There is no evidence that what you eat actually causes Crohn’s or that the inflammation of the intestine is directly affected by what you eat. Inflammation is believed to be caused by a combination of factors. But everyone is different, and certain foods and beverages may aggravate your Crohn’s symptoms.

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Make sure to replenish nutrients you need

You should know that poor absorption in your intestines and loss of appetite often linked to Crohn’s disease may deprive your body of essential nutrients so you have to be mindful about eating a nutritious diet, or malnutrition may occur. Talk to your doctor and, if possible, a dietitian about customizing your diet for you to make sure you are getting enough nutrients and calories. That said, some people with Crohn’s disease may benefit from the following general suggestions:

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  • Limit dairy products

  • Try low-fat foods

  • Experiment with fiber

  • Avoid “gassy” foods

  • Eat smaller meals

  • Drink plenty of water

Crohn's Disease symptoms and signs:

 

The symptoms of Crohn's disease depend on where the disease occurs in the bowel and its severity. In general, symptoms may include:

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  • Chronic diarrhea, often bloody and containing mucus or pus

  • Weight loss of more than 10%

  • Fever

  • Abdominal pain and tenderness

  • Feeling of a mass or fullness in the abdomen

  • Rectal bleeding

  • ​Reduced appetite

 

Other symptoms can develop, depending on complications related to the disease. 

Severe inflammation and obstruction of various parts of the gastrointestinal tract due to swelling and scar formation can cause other problems like bowel perforation, abdominal distension (swelling), severe pain, and fever. This could be life-threatening.

CROHN'S DISEASE Research Study

If you or someone you know suffers from:

Crohn's Disease

 

Contact our office at

210-227-1289

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