Crohn’s Disease Kyra Alexander

What is it? An inflammatory bowel disease that causes inflammation of the digestive tract. It is an unpredictable disease and can get worse over time The part that is most commonly affected is the end part of the small intestine, called the ileum.

The GI tract.. The GI tract is a series of hollow organs joined in a long, twisting tube from the moth to the anus. The movement of muscles in the GI tract, along with the release of hormones and enzymes, allows for the digestion of food.

Crohn’s Disease.. In this disease, inflammation extends deep into the lining of the affected part of the GI tract. Swelling can cause pain and can make the intestine (bowel) empty frequently, resulting in diarrhea. Chronic (long-lasting) inflammation may produce scar tissue that builds up inside the intestine to create a stricture A narrowed passageway that can slow the movement of food through the intestine causing pain or cramps.

What causes Crohn’s Disease? The cause of this disease is unknown. Researchers believe that it is the result of an abnormal reaction by the body’s immune system

Symptoms Abdominal Pain Diarrhea Rectal bleeding Weight loss Fever

How it is Diagnosed… A doctor will perform a thorough physical exam and schedule a series of tests. Blood Tests Stool Tests Flexible sigmoidoscopy Colonoscopy CT scan

Treatment There is no cure for this disease, but measures can be taken to ease the symptoms a person may experience. Eat well balanced, healthy foods! No specific diets have been shown to make Crohn’s symptoms better or worse. Specific food problems may vary from person to person. Fiber supplements may help ease the symptoms. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) can help for mild pain. Avoid Aspirin, ibuprofen, or naproxen which can all make your symptoms worse.

Cont,… Your doctor may prescribe stronger pain medications such as: Aminosalicylates Corticosteroids Antibiotics Biologic therapy

Surgery Some people with Crohn’s disease man need surgery to remove a damaged or diseased part of the intestine. In some cases, the entire large intestine (colon) is removed, with or without the rectum. Some of these surgeries include: Ileostomy Large bowel resection Small bowel resection Total abdominal colectomy Total proctocelectomy with ileostomy