What is Crohn’s Disease?

Woman smiling through a window Crohn’s disease is a form of irritable bowel disease (IBD) that creates inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract (also known as the GI tract). The disease can affect any area from the mouth to the rectum, but most commonly affects the lower part of the small intestine. There’s no known cure for Crohn’s disease.

What Causes Crohn’s Disease?

Unfortunately, the cause(s) behind Crohn’s Disease remains unknown, but experts believe that genetics and the immune system play a role

What are the Symptoms of Crohn’s Disease?

The disease causes inflammation and swelling deep in the GI tract, resulting in pain that can trigger the intestines to empty frequently, causing diarrhea.

Crohn’s disease may be difficult to diagnose because the symptoms, including abdominal pain and diarrhea, are so similar to other intestinal disorders. Bleeding from the rectum, joint pain, weight loss and skin problems are also symptoms.

 

What is the Treatment for Crohn’s Disease?

While there is no cure for Crohn’s disease, treatment usually involves a combination of medication, lifestyle changes, and in more severe cases, surgery. Medication for Crohn’s, typically given through an infusion, includes several different types of prescription anti-inflammatory drugs. Implementing daily exercise and a healthy diet that’s low in fat will also help mitigate symptoms.

If left untreated, Crohn’s disease can continue to progress and lead to severe health complications such as bowel obstruction, malnutrition, ulcers, fistulas, arthritis, osteoporosis, and colon cancer.

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Prevention & Treatment

Infusion Therapy

In-office IV Infusion treatment for patients. Learn more about this procedure and schedule an appointment with a Gastro Health physician at a convenient location.

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Capsule Endoscopy

A noninvasive technology that’s used to diagnosis disorders of the esophagus and small intestine. Learn more about this procedure and schedule an appointment with a Gastro Health physician at a convenient location.

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Colorectal Surgery

Our colorectal surgeons provide patients with personalized care and the latest medical and surgical treatments of the colon, rectum, and anus.

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