What are Some of the Most Common Crohns Disease Symptoms?
Crohn's disease is a condition that causes damage to the lining of the intestines. As a result of this damage, the lining of the digestive system becomes inflamed. Diarrhea is one of the most common Crohn's disease symptoms. Crohn's disease causes the body to secrete excess fluid. The body usually cannot absorb this extra fluid and the patient develops diarrhea.
The inflammation in the intestines can also cause the patient to experience abdominal cramping and bloody stools. Other symptoms of Crohn's disease include: fever, weight loss, skin sores and eye inflammation. Additionally, children who have this condition may also experience stunted growth and delayed puberty.
Health experts have not been able to pinpoint the exact cause of Crohn's disease. However, they do believe that a person's family history and immune system can increase his or her chances of developing this condition. Other risk factors for Crohn's disease include age, ethnicity , place of residence and cigarette smoking. This condition can develop at any age, but it usually diagnosed in patients who are under the age of 30.
Crohns disease can affect any ethnicity, but whites are at the highest risk . There has been evidence to suggest that people who live in northern regions are more likely to develop this condition. Studies have also shown that people who smoke are at an increased risk for developing Crohn's disease.
There are several complications that can result from untreated Crohn's disease. This condition causes the body to not absorb nutrients properly, so malnutrition is a very common complication. The inflammation of the digestive tract can also lead to ulcers. Crohn's disease can also cause the intestinal wall to thicken, which can cause bowel obstruction. This condition can also lead to fingernail clubbing, anemia, arthritis and gallstones.
There is no cure for Crohn's disease, but there are many treatments available to help control the symptoms and improve the patient's quality of life. The doctor may prescribe a corticosteroid, which is a medication that has been shown to help reduce the inflammation of the intestines. Patients who suffer from diarrhea frequently may be prescribed anti-diarrheal medications. Those who suffer from constipation due to an obstructed bowel will most likely be prescribed laxatives.
A patient may also have to take calcium, iron, vitamin D and B-12 supplements to prevent his or her body from becoming malnourished. Dietary changes are also a part of a Crohn's disease treatment plan. Spicy foods, pork, red meat, raw vegetables, raw fruits, fatty foods, high-fiber foods, caffeine and alcohol should be avoided as much as possible. Patients are advised to eat a heart healthy diet that consists of lean protein, fat-free dairy products, grains and nuts.
Doctors also suggest that patients with Crohn's disease exercise at least 30 minutes per day. Exercise can help reduce stress and promote normal bowel function. Stress can worsen this condition, so patients should make sure that they relax as much as possible. Fish oil and probiotics may also be helpful in treating Crohn's disease. If a patient does not respond to medication and lifestyle changes, surgery may be the only option.
There is a-lot of Crohn's disease information available today. However, there is no sure-fire way to prevent this condition from developing. Health researchers have found that smoking cessation and eating a healthy diet may reduce a person's chances of developing Crohn's disease.
