Crohn's disease is a chronic inflammatory condition affecting the digestive tract. Symptoms of the disease include diarrhea, abdominal pain, cramping, ulcers, reduced appetite and weight loss. Severity of symptoms ranges from mild to severe and onset may be gradual or quick. Though anywhere from the mouth to the rectum can be affected, the most common area is the end of the small intestine as well as the beginning of the large intestine, according to the Merck Manual. The condition commonly develops between the ages of 20 and 40, states the University of Maryland Medical Center. Treatment is focused on alleviating symptoms and improving quality of life; currently there is no cure for Crohn's disease.
Diet
There are no concrete scientific studies confirming a relationship between Crohn's disease and increased flare-up; however, some foods may aggravate the intestinal tract more than others, points out the Mayo Clinic. The clinic suggests patients keep a food diary, documenting all meals and snacks during the day, as well as any symptoms experienced each day. Limiting or eliminating dairy products from a diet may resolve symptoms such as gas, cramping and abdominal pains. A person with Crohn's disease may not be able to absorb fat, and avoiding greasy foods such as gravies, fried foods and creams is suggested. Continuing to eat fatty foods can lead to increased diarrhea. Fiber-rich foods may make the disease worse. Avoid raw fruits and vegetables; steam or bake fruits and vegetables, suggests the Mayo Clinic. High fiber fruits such as apples should be avoided.
Stress Relief
Increased stress often leads to an exacerbation or flare-up of Crohn's disease symptoms. Consider participating in mind body exercise classes such as yoga, tai chi or meditation, suggests the University of Maryland Medical Center. The university adds hypnosis can be beneficial, as the alternative therapy may increase immunity, relaxation and decrease stress and anxiety levels. Exercise such as running, biking and swimming is recommended for both physical and mental health. The increased physical activity may even improve bowel function, points out the Mayo Clinic. Crohn's disease patients should avoid dehydration by consuming plenty of water before and after physical activity.
Medications
A variety of medications treat symptoms of Crohn's disease. Antidiarrheal drugs are taken orally to decrease diarrhea and abdominal cramps. Methylcellulose and psyllium are two types of antidiarrheal drugs that decrease irritation and firm stool, reports the Merck Manual. Anti-inflammatory medications aide in decreasing inflammations and recurrences of symptoms. Corticosteroids are prescribed if initial medication treatment is ineffective. Steroid use is limited to short-term use due to severity of side effects. The average treatment length of corticosteroids is three to four months, reports the Mayo Clinic. Immunosuppressants are prescribed to decrease the body's immune response; a decreased response decreases the likelihood of symptoms occurring.
