Crohn's disease can range from mild to severe and has an affect on your digestive system. Crohn's disease can make maintaining a healthy diet and a normal lifestyle difficult. As a result, surgery may sometimes be performed on Crohn's patients. For diagnostic testing and preparation and recovery from surgery, a clear liquid diet may be required.
Crohn's Disease
According to the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America, Crohn's disease is a chronic condition that causes inflammation of your digestive tract -- especially your colon and small intestine. However, Crohn's may affect any area of your digestive tract from your mouth to your anus. Symptoms of Crohn's disease include abdominal pain, diarrhea, blood in your stool, ulcers and a decrease in appetite. With severe cases of Crohn's, you may also experience fever, fatigue, inflammation of the liver, inflamed eyes and delayed growth in children with Crohn's disease.
Diagnosis and Treatment
There is a variety of different tests to help diagnosis Crohn's disease and rule out other conditions, including colon cancer. Your doctor may order blood tests, a stool sample or a colonoscopy. Imaging studies may also be conducted on your bowels. Treatment for Crohn's disease involves medication and sometimes surgery. Antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medications and immune system suppressants can be used in the treatment of Crohn's disease. Surgery may be performed to remove the damaged portion of your digestive tract or to remove scar tissue. However, Crohn's can reoccur following surgery.
Clear Liquid Diet
A clear liquid diet may be used prior to testing for Crohn's disease -- especially prior to a colonoscopy. A clear liquid diet may also be used as preparation for surgery on your digestive tract. Your doctor may also prescribe a clear liquid diet to allow your digestive system to rest following surgery for Crohn's disease. Any food or drink that is in liquid form and translucent is part of a clear liquid diet. A clear liquid diet is usually only followed for a few days due to its lack of nutrition, but can provide hydration and electrolytes when you are unable to consume a regular diet, according to MayoClinic.com.
Clear Liquid Diet Foods
Water, fruit juices without pulp, clear soda and clear sports drinks are part of a clear liquid diet. Plain gelatin and ice pops without pieces of fruit in them can also be consumed. Beef or chicken broth is also permitted. Tea or coffee may be consumed on a clear liquid diet. However, they must be consumed without cream or milk. You are also permitted to lick on clear hard candy. A clear liquid diet may vary from person to person. Talk to your doctor about any concerns you have regarding your clear liquid diet.
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