Chronic diarrhea, sore gums and weight loss are all classic symptoms of Crohn's disease, a chronic inflammatory bowel disorder affecting the large intestines and the GI tract. Crohn's disease can impinge upon any portion of the GI tract from the anal region to the mouth. It is similar to ulcerative colitis, although this particular disorder doesn't spread to the small intestines. Additionally ulcerative colitis lesions join in the GI tract, unlike lesions associated with Crohn's disease, which appear in disconnected sections throughout the GI tract. Crohn's disease is thought to be related to autoimmune dysfunction and arises in phases of flare-ups and remission. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, consult your general practitioner for a professional diagnosis.
What is Crohn's Disease?
Crohn's disease is a progressive inflammatory disorder that affects the digestive tract. It can start in the anal region, but it generally begins in the ileum, increasing throughout the colon and small intestine to cause pain and diarrhea. Crohn's disease affects all age groups, although those between the ages of 20 and 30 are more at risk. Caucasians and Jewish people are most susceptible to Crohns disease, according to the Genetics Home Reference, which notes that 100 to 150 in 100,000 being affected in Europe and North America. Crohn's disease is more prevalent in urban areas as opposed to rural locations, with most cases occurring in northern regions.
Ulcers and Fistulas
Lesions developing into ulcers in the digestive tract are a common trait of Crohn's disease. These ulcers perforate intestinal wall tissues, causing it to scar and thicken. The intestinal tract often becomes blocked and atypical ducts called fistulas develop, as a result, in the intestines and surrounding internal organs such as the skin, bladder and vagina. Intestinal fluids are drained from the digestive tract through these fistulas. Ulcers can also develop in the mouth, causing the gums to feel sore and recede. Crohn's disease is thought to be triggered by environmental and genetic factors and can occur as a result of your diet, immune disorders, bacterial infections and environmental antigens.
Diarrhea and Nutritional Deficiencies
Nutritional deficiencies are a complication of Crohn's disease, with malnutrition occurring in severe cases. This transpires because of your body's inability to absorb vital nutrients due to prolonged episodes of diarrhea. You may also experience a loss of appetite and difficulty eating due to painful cramps, which contributes to weight loss and anemia. Bowel movements may become very painful and difficult due to infected fistulas around the anal region. Liver problems, eye inflammation, osteoporosis, bladder infections and colon cancer are also potential complications of Crohn's disease.
Managing Symptoms
Mercaptopurie, infliximab, and methotrexate are traditional Crohn's disease treatments and are often prescribed to patients as a way of improving the short-term quality of life. These drugs present cancer risks, however, because of their action in suppressing the immune system. Surgery may be performed to remove ulcerated tissue from the GI tract, although damage to healthy tissue may still present itself in subsequent flare-ups.
The practice of meditation, tai chi, yoga and other relaxing forms can help reduce stress and anxiety, which is relevant as elevated stress levels are known to trigger flare-ups of Crohn's disease. Eliminating sugary, fatty foods and eat a healthy balanced diet, with plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables may extend remission phases and decrease the occurrence of flare-ups.
Member Comments