Crohn's disease is a chronic inflammatory condition of the digestive tract. Characterized by patches of inflamed tissue surrounded by healthy tissue, Crohn's disease causes abdominal pain, weight loss, fatigue, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. To control the symptoms, physicians have established dietary, lifestyle and medication guidelines, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Medications
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, medication cannot cure Crohn's disease; however, they can control the symptoms and produce bouts of remission. Medications used to treat Crohn's include mesalamine and corticosteroids, to reduce intestinal inflammation; sulfasalazine in conjunction with folic acid, to decrease intestinal inflammation; immune system supporting medications; antidiarrheal medications and antibiotics to treat ulcers.
Diet
To lessen the symptoms of Crohn's disease, physicians recommend eating plenty of antioxidant rich fruits and vegetables like blueberries, tomatoes, cherries, bell peppers and squash. Also eat foods high in vitamin B, magnesium and calcium and avoid aggravating foods such as sugar, processed foods, saturated fats, dairy, hot spices, white bread, pasta, alcohol and caffeine. Some patients may choose to undergo an elimination diet to rule out which foods cause severe adverse reactions, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
In addition to adhere to proper food intake, vitamins and supplements are an important component to control Crohn's symptoms. Physicians recommend vitamin D, zinc, omega-3 fatty acids, calcium, glucosamine, probiotics and glutamine, notes the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Stress Management
Stress management techniques such as meditation, yoga, tai chi and hypnosis are effective methods to decrease symptoms of Crohn's if paired with a traditional treatment regimen. Regular exercise such as walking or running is also effective to reduce stress; however, patients are urged to drink plenty of water before and after exercise and to avoid overheating the body.
Herbs
Some physicians recommend using herbs to decrease intestinal inflammation. When ingested, marshmallow and slippery elm produce mucous in the digestive tract that reduces inflammation. Chamomile, licorice, aloe vera and yarrow also assist in relieving intestinal inflammation. For diarrhea, witch hazel, oak, cranebill and green tea are recommended, according to the University of Michigan Health System.
Surgery
As a last resort, surgery is used to remove sections of the intestine that have become too damaged. Ulceration of the intestinal lining can lead to a rupture, which is a life threatening condition. Surgery is not a cure for Crohn's disease; the condition persists despite tissue removal, according to the Milton S. Hershey Medical Center at Penn State University.
