CROHN’S Disease can be a life-long, ongoing condition that is diagnosed once it is established. There is no cure.
It was named after Burrill Crohn of New York, who had reported several cases in 1932.
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What is Crohn’s Disease and how can you help?
This condition causes inflammation in the digestive system.
Inflammation can be caused by injury or irritation. It can cause pain, swelling, and redness.
This condition is commonly described as chronic and sufferers may experience periods of good health. However, flare-ups can occur when symptoms become more severe.
It is the most common form of Inflammatory Bliss Disease. The other is Ulcerative Colitis.
It can be caused either by genes passed to a person or by an abnormal immune system reaction.
Amy Dowden is a Strictly Come Dancing professional who has suffered from this condition for many years.
After an episode of an altercation, she had to quit a live show. “unexpected Crohn’s flare up”.
This condition can cause severe inflammation and ulcers of the digestive system, and has seen her admitted to hospital more than 100 times.
What are the symptoms and signs of Crohn’s Disease?
Common symptoms include frequent diarrhoea and abdominal pain, and cramping. This is usually worse after eating, and extreme tiredness.
Unintentional weight loss, bloody stool and mucus are all common signs.
One person may experience only one of these symptoms while others experience severe symptoms.
It is possible for symptoms to be mild or absent for several weeks or even months.
The less common symptoms are a high fever, feeling sick, being sick, joint pain and swelling and inflammation of the eyes.
Consult your doctor if you experience persistent diarrhoea or abdominal pain, unexplained weight gain, blood in your stools, or persistent diarrhoea.
Is it a cause of weight gain?
People who suffer from Crohn’s disease can find it difficult to maintain a healthy weight.
Weight loss and weight gain are both symptoms of Crohn’s.
Weight can be affected by certain medications for the condition.
Prednisone, a very common one, can cause temporary weight loss.
Weight loss can often be one of the main symptoms. This is usually due to a lack appetite.
Additional side effects of medication include nausea and abdominal pain. This can further reduce appetite.
Due to their condition, people may not be able to absorb nutrients properly. This can again lead to weight loss.
And if a certain food or food group is known to exacerbate someone’s symptoms, they may avoid it entirely.
Your doctor will likely recommend a diet and nutrition program if you have had a significant weight loss or are struggling to maintain it.
What is the treatment for Crohn’s disease?
There is no cure, so the goal of treatment is to manage symptoms and maintain remission.
Some drugs and surgeries can provide long-lasting relief, while others may temporarily increase your weight.
Some claim that smoking cannabis helps with the symptoms.
Simpler things, such as eating different foods and figuring out what’s causing flare ups, can be very helpful.