Crohn's Disease Symptoms & Treatment
Crohn's disease is a type of inflammatory bowel disorder. The disease often develops slowly and has no cure, but treatments are available. According to the Mayo Clinic, Crohn's disease can inflame the lining of the digestive tract. This, in turn, can lead to severe diarrhea and abdominal cramping if the disease is not treated effectively.
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Symptoms
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Symptoms of Crohn's disease can suddenly occur. Frequent bouts of diarrhea can affect sleep and daily routines. Abdominal cramping can also occur; if Crohn's disease is severe, the cramping can lead to nausea and vomiting. Other symptoms include blood in the stool, ulcers, weight loss and decreased appetite.
Fistulas
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Another complication of Crohn's is development of a fistula, a connection between an organ, intestine or another structure. According to the Mayo Clinic, a fistula also can burrow through the skin. In addition, fistulas can create an abscess, which is a sore that becomes swollen and filled with pus.
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Other Symptoms
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Severe Crohn's disease can cause fever and fatigue. Arthritis and inflammation of the eyes also can develop. Skin disorders and inflammation of the liver and bile ducts also are common. Children with Crohn's might develop slower than their peers, with delayed growth and sexual development. At times, Crohn's patients may go long periods without experiencing any ill effects. At other times, the symptoms may be reoccurring.
Causes
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It was once believed that stress or diet were the underlying causes of Crohn's. According to the Mayo Clinic, 20 percent of patients have a relative with the disease. Genetic mutations are one of the culprits in causing Crohn's. A gene known as NOD2/CARD15 occurs more frequently in individuals who develop Crohn's. A compromised immune system also could be a factor. When your body is trying to fight an infection, your digestive tract becomes inflamed as a result, which can lead to the symptoms associated with the disease (see "References" below).
Compliations
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Over time, Crohn's patients can develop serious complications, including an obstruction within the bowels, malnutrition, fissures (cracks within the anus or around the anus) and gallstones. According to the Mayo Clinic, Crohn's might increase the risk for developing colon cancer. However, this risk is great only if a patient has suffered from Crohn's for at least 10 years and if the disease has spread throughout the entire colon.
Treatments
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Doctors can offer several types of treatments to help alleviate Crohn's symptoms. Anti-inflammatory drugs, such as Sulfasalazine and Mesalamine, might be prescribed. Medications such as immune system suppressors can help prevent the immune system from targeting digestive tissues. As a result, inflammation of the intestinal tract lessons. Antibiotics can help heal fistulas and reduce the build-up of harmful bacteria in the intestines. Anti-diarrhea medications, such as psyllium powder, can help relieve symptoms, too. There are other options for treating the disease; a doctor can pinpoint an effective treatment plan.
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