Crohns Disease

Inflamed and swollen state of the digestive tract


Last modified: December 20, 2011


Beatrice Woods
Licensed Practical Nurse



Crohns Disease

The digestive system is a critical part of the overall body process. Maintaining a healthy digestive system is crucial. Measures that can be taken to reduce the incidence of developing a disorder of the digestive tract include consuming a high fiber health conscious diet. Eating little frequent meals instead of big, fatty filled foods lessens abdominal bloating. Partaking in thirty minutes of exercise daily is beneficial to the digestive system. Not smoking cigarettes and taking in alcoholic beverages in moderation is always a step in the right direction.

Disorders of the gastrointestinal tract are frequent occurrences. Crohn’s disease is one of many digestive system disorders that require proper medical intervention. Persistent abnormalities of the gastrointestinal tract should not be self-diagnosed. Seeking early assessment by a physician for early evaluation and treatment suggestions is advised.


Crohns Disease Defined

A long lasting abnormality leading to the expansion of the gastrointestinal track.

Symptoms Of Crohns Disease

The type of symptoms displayed and the severity will not be the same for all patients. Popular symptoms associated with this disorder include pain in the abdomen, rectal bleeding, tiredness, anorexia and diarrhea.

Diagnosing Crohns Disease

The doctor will do a physical examination of the patient and order a variety of tests before making a diagnosis of crohn’s disease. Blood and stool samples are typically taken. A colonoscopy exam may be performed to see the inside structure of the colon. The physician will determine if an upper GI series is necessary.

Causes Of Crohns Disease

Exactly what causes Crohn’s disease is not known. Crohn’s disease is believed to develop as a result of an abnormality of the immune system.

Risk Factors Of Crohns Disease

Jewish and European people have a greater chance of developing this disorder. Additional risk factors includes smoking cigarettes, poor nutritional intake and having blood relatives with a history of this condition.

Treatment For Crohns Disease

The type of therapy prescribed will depend on the symptoms exhibited and the severity of the symptoms. Crohn’s disease is a long lasting disorder that is usually characterized by periods of intermission of symptoms. The typical treatment includes the use of medication and nutritional enhancements. Surgery to remove a part of the colon may be indicated for unresolved symptoms.

Medications For Crohns Disease

Drugs used in the plan of care for Crohn’s disease includes anti-inflammatory medications to lessen inflammation. Corticosteroids are given to help reduce inflammation and aid in hormone replacement. Antibiotics are used to fight infections. For diarrhea and dehydration, laxatives and IV fluid re-hydration is ordered.

Recovery From Crohns Disease

Recuperation from Crohn’s disease will be unique to each individual person. The recovery phase will count on the type of treatment given and if surgery was performed. The overall wellness of the patient prior to therapy will play a role in recovery also.

Prevention Of Crohns Disease

There is currently no way to prevent the occurrence of Crohn's disease. The only way to maintain an upper hand on the disorder is with the use of medication to treat the symptoms, adequate nutritional intake, not smoking and partaking in an exercise program.











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