Crohn's disease is listed as an Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). This disease will attack different parts of the intestinal tract and is usually incurable. It can, however, go into remission with the proper therapy. It is estimated that over 1 million patients suffer from Crohn's disease or Ulcerative Colitis, another form of IBD (see Resources).
Considerations
It is believed that Crohn's disease tends to run in families, although a pattern emerging from this remains under study. So far, 20 to 25 percent of patients have more than one family member with either Crohn's or Ulcerative Colitis. Crohn's disease usually affects young adults under 30 years old; however, it has been diagnosed in individuals as old as 70.
Early Signs
Early signs of the disease may include abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, constipation and diarrhea, joint pain and fever. Abdominal pain followed by diarrhea will usually occur after eating a meal. Fatigue is also an early symptom, along with anal sores, fissures or cracks and skin tags. Most of the early warning signs can be misdiagnosed as other ailments since the early signs are a lot like other conditions. This may cause a delay in a proper diagnosis.
Diagnosis
Detection of Crohn's disease is determined by a colonoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, blood tests and X-rays of the GI tract. The most effective tests are the colonoscopy and sigmoidoscopy since these tests actually insert a tiny camera into the rectum so the physician can see the lining of the intestines. During these tests, biopsies are often taken of the lining for a more complete test.
Treatment
Treatment of Crohn's disease will vary by individual and severity of the disease. Some patients do very well on anti-inflammatory drugs as in sulfasalazine. Other patients may react better with corticosteroids like prednisone. Certain antibiotics are also used for some patients. Since Crohn's is chronic and no cure is available at this time, in extreme cases, surgery is required to remove the diseased section of the intestines.
Living With Crohn's
Leading a productive life while living with Crohn's disease is even more possible today and research is ongoing. Following a medication regime, proper diet and controlling stress all play an important role in the daily life of patients suffering from Crohn's disease. For more information on Crohn's disease, see the Resources.
Tags: Crohn disease, colonoscopy sigmoidoscopy, Crohn disease, disease will, Early Signs, from Crohn, from Crohn disease