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William A. Fabion Jr., MD, Mayo Clinic Gastroenterology: I’m Dr. Bill Fabion, a gastroenterologist at the Mayo Clinic. This video explains the basics of Crohn’s disease. what is that? Who will get it? Symptoms, diagnosis and treatment. Whether you’re looking for answers for yourself or a loved one, we’re here to provide you with the best information available. Crohn’s disease is an inflammatory bowel disease that causes chronic inflammation. G.I. A tube that runs from the stomach to the anus.different areas of G.I. The intestinal tract can be affected in different people and often spreads to the deeper layers of the intestine. It is estimated that more than 500,000 Americans are living with Crohn’s disease. It can be painful and debilitating, sometimes leading to serious complications and being emotionally stressful. There is no cure, but once diagnosed, treatment can help you return to a more normal and comfortable life.
Who will get it?
There are many details that can cause or worsen Crohn’s disease, but the exact cause is still unknown. An abnormal immune response to some microorganisms may be involved, and tissues are also attacked. Genetics may also play a role. And it is true that if you have a first-degree relative who is infected, you are at higher risk. However, it is actually only seen in about 20% of cases. There is a correlation with age. It can develop at any stage of life, but most people are diagnosed before their 30s. Ethnicity is a risk factor. White people, especially Ashkenazi Jews, are most at risk. However, incidence is increasing among black people in North America and the United Kingdom. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or NSAIDS… although they do not cause Crohn’s disease, they are known to cause and worsen intestinal inflammation. These include common over-the-counter painkillers such as ibuprofen, naproxen sodium, and diclofenac sodium. Therefore, if you have been diagnosed with Crohn’s disease, be sure to talk to your doctor about which medications to avoid. Although many of these factors are out of our control, smoking is the most important controllable risk factor for developing Crohn’s disease. It also makes the disease more severe and increases the need for surgery. Therefore, if you smoke and have been diagnosed, now is a good time to quit.
What symptoms do you have?
Crohn’s disease can affect any area of the body G.I. It is present within the ducts, but primarily in the large and small intestines. They may also be confined to one area or found in multiple segments. The severity of symptoms varies and depends on the location. G.I. Affected ducts. You may also experience periods of remission when you have no symptoms or problems at all. Symptoms may appear gradually or suddenly. These include diarrhea, fever, fatigue, abdominal pain or cramps, bloody stools, mouth sores, loss of appetite, and weight loss. If Crohn disease causes fistulas or inflamed tunnels in the skin near the anus, you may experience pain and drainage. In more severe cases, inflammation of the eyes, skin, joints, liver and bile ducts, kidney stones, and anemia may occur. In children, growth and development may be delayed. Over time, Crohn’s disease can cause other complications, such as intestinal blockage, ulcers, fistulas, anal fissures, malnutrition, and other health problems. It may also increase your risk of blood clots and colon cancer. Having these symptoms does not automatically mean you have Crohn’s disease. However, if you have any symptoms that concern you, we recommend that you consult your doctor.
How is it diagnosed?
Because there is no single test for Crohn’s disease and the symptoms are similar to many other diseases, it may take some time to get a diagnosis. First, your doctor will review your medical history. In that case, your doctor may want to perform various tests and procedures. And at some point, your doctor may want to refer you to a specialist like me called a gastroenterologist. Blood tests can check for anemia and signs of infection. A stool test can test for the presence of blood and rule out certain pathogens. A colonoscopy may be necessary. It also allows doctors to use an endoscope, which is a small camera attached to a thin flexible tube, to see the entire colon and even the end of the ileum. A tissue sample for biopsy may also be taken at the same time. Also, the presence of granulomas or clusters of inflammatory cells can basically confirm the diagnosis.a CT A scan may be ordered to take a closer look at your intestines and all surrounding tissues.or MRIIt is particularly suitable for evaluating fistulas around the anus or small intestine. Capsule endoscopy is possible. Here, a camera the size of a large vitamin is actually swallowed and images taken as it passes through the digestive tract. Balloon-assisted enteroscopy may also be done to reach deeper into the intestine than a standard endoscopy if an abnormality is found that requires further investigation.
How will I be treated?
Your doctor can work with you to find treatments to relieve your symptoms. One of the main goals is to reduce inflammation, which causes painful and destructive problems. The other is to limit complications over the long term. There is currently no cure, but many treatments can significantly reduce symptoms and, in some cases, lead to long-term remission. These may include anti-inflammatory drugs such as corticosteroids, immune system suppressants, and antibiotics. Certain biologics that target proteins made by the immune system can help. Antidiarrheal medications, pain relievers, and supplements can help address other symptoms. Nutritional therapy or special diets may be recommended. Surgery may also be necessary if other measures are ineffective. And that is to remove the damaged tissue. Some of these treatments have their own side effects. Therefore, discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
What now?
Crohn’s disease can be physically and mentally challenging, but there are things that can help. Although there is no solid evidence that certain foods cause Crohn’s disease, certain things seem to make flare-ups worse. Therefore, a food diary can help you identify your personal triggers. Additionally, try to limit dairy products, eat smaller meals, stay hydrated, and avoid caffeine, alcohol, and carbonation. If you’re concerned about weight loss, consider a multivitamin. Or, if your diet is too restrictive, consult a registered dietitian. Again, if you smoke, you should quit. It is also important to take care of your mental health. Find ways to manage stress, including exercise, breathing, relaxation techniques, and biofeedback. Symptoms such as abdominal pain, gas, and diarrhea can cause anxiety and irritability. They can make it difficult to go out in public at any time. It can make you feel restricted and isolated, which can lead to depression. So learn as much as you can about Crohn’s disease. Staying informed can help you feel in control of your condition. Talk to a therapist, especially one who specializes in inflammatory bowel disease. Your doctor can give you some recommendations. And you may want to find a support group of people who are going through the same thing as you. Crohn’s disease is a complex disease. However, with professional medical care and a treatment strategy, it can become more manageable and even allow you to return to a normal, free life. Meanwhile, the understanding and treatment of this disease continues to make significant advances, moving us closer to curing or completely preventing the disease. To learn more about Crohn’s disease, watch other related videos or visit mayoclinic.org. I pray that your soul may rest in peace.