People affected by Crohn's disease suffer from an inflamed digestive tract, also called ileitis or enteritis.The disease can occur anywhere in the digestive tract but usually strikes the lower part of the small intestine or the beginning of the large intestine. Symptoms can disrupt the person's lifestyle through pain, anxiety, embarrassment, social and lifestyle issues.
Symptoms
Severe diarrhea, cramping and abdominal pain. Reduced appetite and weight loss results from the inability to properly digest food.
Diagnosis
Crohn's disease can be diagnosed by a physical exam or X-rays and other tests such as barium X-rays, colonoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, stool analysis or a tissue biopsy.
Causes
Genetics play a part; about 20 percent of patients have a parent, child or sibling with the disease. Another suspected cause is a virus or bacterium which excites the immune system and inflames the digestive tract.
Risk Factors
Men and women are about equally affected. It is more likely to strike between 20 and 30 to Caucasians, especially those of Jewish or European descent.
Treatment
Drug therapy can help reduce the inflammation. In some cases, surgery removes or repairs damaged areas of the digestive track. However, there is no actual cure for Crohn's disease.
Drugs
Anti-inflammatory drugs are the basic treatment. Immune system suppressors also reduce the immune system response that can cause inflammation. Antibiotics treat abscesses. Other medications such as anti-diarrheals, pain relievers or nutritional supplements treat symptoms.
Support Groups
Family and friends play a big part in support. Chapters of organizations such as the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America (CCFA) provide information and access to support groups.
Tags: Crohn disease, digestive tract, immune system, play part