Crohn's disease is a chronic condition that causes inflammation of the digestive system. It's a form of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and its symptoms typically include abdominal cramping, abdominal pain and diarrhea. While there is no cure for Crohn's disease, treatments can help manage the symptoms. Reading about Crohn's disease can help you learn how to live with the condition as well as help you formulate specific, educated questions for your physician.
"The New Eating Right for a Bad Gut"
James Scala, the author of "The New Eating Right for a Bad Gut: The Complete Nutritional Guide to Ileitis, Colitis, Crohn's Disease and Inflammatory Bowel Disease," is a nutritionist who has written several books that explore the connection between diet and disease. The intent of the book is to provide information about the dietary and lifestyle choices that will minimize flare-ups. While the Mayo Clinic notes that there is no firm evidence that diet causes Crohn's disease, it also points out that certain foods and beverages likely aggravate the condition. This book provides detailed guidance for choosing a diet to minimize the suffering that can accompany Crohn's disease.
"Toilet Paper Flowers"
"Toilet Paper Flowers: A Story for Children about Crohn's Disease" is an appropriate resource for young children. The book is an illustrated fictional story about a little girl with Crohn's disease. While Crohn's disease can strike at any age, it is not that common in children. The Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America estimates that 140,000 people younger than 18 suffer from some form of IBD. A child with Crohn's disease might struggle to feel normal and may not really understand the condition. The author, Frank J. Sileo, is a psychologist who has treated children and adolescents with Crohn's disease, and he has personal experience with the condition.
"100 Questions & Answers About Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis"
A revised edition of "100 Questions & Answers About Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis: A Lahey Clinic Guide" was published in 2010. This book, written by gastroenterologists Dr. Andrew S. Warner and Dr. Amy E. Barto, uses a question-and-answer format to create a comprehensive medical guide to Crohn's disease. The book's topics include diagnosis, medication, surgery and the relationship between Crohn's disease and cancer.
"The First Year: Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis"
"The First Year: Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis: An Essential Guide for the Newly Diagnosed" by Jill Sklar uses a timeline to structure information. Each chapter takes the newly diagnosed patient through a distinct phase of living with the disease and marks milestones such as the first week and the first month. Jill Sklar is a freelance writer who specializes in medical topics. Diagnosed with Crohn's disease in 1989, she describes herself as a patient-expert.
