Crohn’s Disease Treatment

Comprehensive Care for Long-Term Digestive Health

What is Crohn’s Disease?

Crohn’s disease is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that can affect any part of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, from the mouth to the anus. It often causes inflammation, leading to pain, diarrhea, malnutrition, and other symptoms that can significantly impact daily life. While there is no cure, effective treatment can manage symptoms and prevent complications.

Symptoms of Crohn’s Disease

Symptoms vary depending on the area of the GI tract affected and the severity of inflammation. Common signs include:

• Chronic Diarrhea: Often watery or bloody.
• Abdominal Pain or Cramping: Typically in the lower right abdomen.
• Weight Loss: Due to malabsorption of nutrients.
• Fatigue: Often caused by chronic inflammation or anemia.
• Rectal Bleeding: Blood in stools.
• Mouth Sores: Painful ulcers in the mouth.
• Fever and Night Sweats: Related to inflammation.

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause of Crohn’s disease is unknown, but it likely involves a combination of genetic, environmental, and immune system factors.

Complications of Crohn’s Disease

Without proper treatment, Crohn’s disease can lead to serious complications, including:

• Bowel Obstruction: Narrowing of the intestines due to scarring.
• Fistulas: Abnormal connections between organs.
• Abscesses: Pockets of infection in the abdomen or anus.
• Malnutrition: Caused by poor nutrient absorption.
• Colon Cancer: Increased risk with long-standing inflammation.

Diagnosis of Crohn’s Disease

At Central Gastro, we use advanced diagnostic techniques to confirm Crohn’s disease:

• Colonoscopy: Visualizes the colon and ileum, allowing for biopsies to confirm inflammation.
• Capsule Endoscopy: Examines the small intestine using a camera inside a swallowable capsule.
• Imaging Tests: CT or MRI scans to evaluate the extent of inflammation and complications.
• Blood and Stool Tests: To detect inflammation, anemia, or infections.

Treatment Options for Crohn’s Disease

Our treatment approach focuses on controlling inflammation, relieving symptoms, and preventing flare-ups and complications.

1. Medications

• Anti-Inflammatory Drugs: Such as corticosteroids, for short-term symptom control during flare-ups.
• Immunosuppressants: Like azathioprine or methotrexate, to reduce immune system activity.
• Biologic Therapies: Target specific proteins involved in inflammation (e.g., infliximab).
• Antibiotics: To treat infections or abscesses.
• Symptom Relievers: Antidiarrheals, pain relievers, or iron supplements for anemia.

2. Nutritional Therapy

• Specialized Diets: Tailored plans to reduce inflammation and improve nutrient absorption.
• Enteral Nutrition: Liquid diets to rest the bowel and promote healing.
• Vitamin and Mineral Supplements: To address deficiencies like iron, vitamin D, or calcium.

3. Endoscopic Procedures

• Stricture Dilatation: Widening narrowed areas of the intestine

• Abscess Drainage: Using minimally invasive techniques.

4. Surgery

Surgery may be necessary for complications like bowel obstruction, perforation, or abscesses. Procedures may include:

• Resection: Removing diseased portions of the intestine.
• Fistula Repair: Addressing abnormal connections.
• Ileostomy or Colostomy: Temporary or permanent diversion of stool.

Long-Term Management of Crohn’s Disease

Crohn’s disease is a lifelong condition requiring ongoing care. At Central Gastro, we provide:

• Regular Monitoring: To assess disease activity and adjust treatments.
• Lifestyle Guidance: Including stress management, exercise, and smoking cessation.
• Patient Education: Empowering you with the knowledge to manage your condition effectively.
• Supportive Care: Access to dietitians, counselors, and support groups.