The Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America describes Crohn's disease as a chronic inflammatory disorder of the gastrointestinal tract. It is very similar to ulcerative colitis, and is also categorized with other inflammatory bowel diseases. In Crohn's disease, the body attacks normal bacteria in the intestines and causes inflammation, leading to ulcerations of the bowel. Though it is a chronic disease, it is possible to lead a full and healthy life with the illness.
Nutrition
Sometimes certain foods and beverages can irritate the stomach and cause exacerbate symptoms of Crohn's disease, and changing your diet can help minimize flare-ups and discomfort. The Mayo Clinic states that many people with inflammatory bowel disease are sensitive to lactose and the body does not digest it easily, causing diarrhea, abdominal cramping and gas. Limiting any dairy products or using Lactaid can reduce intestinal symptoms. Crohn's disease can also impair digestion of fat, so eating low-fat foods are easier to digest than high fat foods like butter, cream-based meals and fried foods. Keeping track in a food diary of what foods seem to irritate your stomach or make symptoms worse can give you an idea of what foods to limit and which ones are better for you. Eating smaller meals, taking a multivitamin and drinking lots of fluids can help your body digest the food better and alleviate symptoms of Crohn's.
Stress Management
While stress does not cause Crohn's disease, it can aggravate symptoms of the disease, according to the Mayo Clinic. If the body is stressed, digestion is altered and becomes more acidic. Managing stress can help prevent flare-ups; regular exercise, relaxation techniques and breathing exercises can all help reduce stress levels and help manage symptoms of Crohn's.
Education and Support
Having a chronic disease with symptoms that can be severe, like those of Crohn's, can be emotionally trying. Flare-ups may cause embarrassment or interfere with social activities, and living with a chronic illness can lead to feelings of isolation, helplessness and depression, according to both the Mayo Clinic and the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America. Learning about the disease can help restore feelings of control and provide helpful information about what to expect with the disease and how to better manage it. Support groups with individuals also dealing with inflammatory bowel diseases can provide emotional and peer encouragement.
Adhering to Medication Regimens
The National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse lists several types of medications that are used in managing Crohn's disease, including anti-inflammatory drugs, steroids, immune system suppressants, antibiotics and anti-diarrheal drugs. Different drugs may be used at different times, depending on flare-ups and what symptoms are present at a given point, but it is important to work with your health care team to come up with a regimen that works for you. Adhering to the right medication schedule can help keep symptoms of Crohn's disease at a manageable level and improve quality of life.
