Crohn's disease is a debilitating disorder that causes inflammation of the digestive tract. In most cases, it affects the lower section of the small intestine. However, it can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract.
History
Crohn's disease is named after Dr. Burrill B. Crohn, whose 1932 research distinguished it from a similar gastrointestinal disorder known as ulcerative colitis. Dr. Crohn, along with his colleagues Dr. Leon Ginzburg and Dr. Gordon D. Oppenheimer published a paper that described the distinct features of the disease they called "terminal Ileitis."
Theories and Speculation
Despite Dr. Crohn's research, scientists are still unclear about the causes of Crohn's disease. Researchers from the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation believe that the tendency toward gastrointestinal inflammation is the result of a number of interacting factors. These may include genetics, the immune system and environmental factors. It is believed that Crohn's disease patients have an overactive immune system. When foreign substances are introduced to the body, its systems protect it by causing inflammation. In a Crohn's disease patient, once the immune system is turned on, it does not know how to turn it off.
Identification
Crohn's disease is diagnosed in a number of ways. Some physicians will take an x-ray of the gastrointestinal tract. Others will use sigmoidoscopy to examine the lower bowel. During this procedure, a hollow tube with a camera at the end is inserted into the rectum.
Effects of Crohn's Disease
The inflammation caused by Crohn's disease creates bloody diarrhea and severe abdominal pain. Headache and excess weight loss can occur in some cases. In addition to the gastrointestinal complications, Crohn's disease can cause chronic fever and loss of appetite. Crohn's has also been linked to the eventual development of arthritis, skin problems and anemia.
Misconceptions
While Crohn's and ulcerative colitis and have similar symptoms, they are different illnesses. Ulcerative colitis affects the colon. Crohn's affects the lower intestine.
Solution
Crohn's disease is incurable. It can be treated with various drugs, such as anti-inflammatory drugs, steroids and immune-system suppressants. In addition, a restricted diet and proper nutrition can help control the disease. When medications no longer control the disease, surgery is an option.
