Brianna Laplante

I have a close friends who has Crohn’s disease, so after last night’s lecture on digestion, I realized Crohn’s fits right into the discussion.  Crohn’s disease is an ongoing disorder that causes inflammation of the digestive tract.  Crohn’s can affect any part of the GI tract from the mouth to the anus, but most often, it affects the ilium.  The swelling extends deep into the lining of the affected organ.  The swelling can cause pain and can make the intestines empty frequently, resulting in diarrhea.  Crohn’s disease is an inflammatory bowel disease, the general name for diseases that cause swelling of the intestines. 

The symptoms of Crohn’s disease are very similar to colitis and irritable bowel syndrome, making it often-times difficult for a diagnosis.  Symptoms of Crohn’s include abdominal pain, diarrhea, rectal bleeding and weight loss.  Treatment options for Crohn’s include the use of anti-inflammatory drugs, cortisone, steroids, immune system suppressors, infliximab, antibiotics and anti-diarrheal/fluid replacemation therapies.  Two thirds of people living with Crohn’s will need surgery at some point in their lives.  Surgery becomes necessary when medication can no longer control symptoms. 

It is crucial for people living with Crohn’s disease to follow a nutritious diet and to avoid foods that worsen symptoms.  People with Crohn’s should regularly meet with their physician to keep their condition under control to their best ability.  Although the cause of Crohn’s disease is unknown, it is believed to be an autoimmune disease that is genetically linked!!   Have a great week everyone, enjoy the nice weather! 

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