Understanding Crohn Disease

Answer 1

Crohn disease, also called inflammatory bowel disease, is an inflammation within the intestines that causes breaks in the lining of the large and small intestines. In many individuals, Crohn disease may affect the digestive system anywhere from the mouth to the rectum. Crohn disease affects 500,000 to two million men and women in the United States every year. Caucasians are most likely to develop the disease, but an increase in cases have been found in African Americans in recent years.

Symptoms

Common symptoms associated with Crohn disease include abdominal pain, weight loss, and diarrhea. Other symptoms that are not as common include fever, a decrease in appetite, rectal pain, night sweats, and occasional rectal bleeding. The specific symptoms of Crohn disease depend on where the issue is located in the body. Inflammation can occur only in the colon or intestines, or in both areas concurrently.

Diagnosis

When an individual experiencing symptoms related to Crohn disease visits a doctor, the physician will order a blood test. Blood test results that indicate elevated white blood cell counts and sedimentation rates suggest inflammation. Laboratory results may also show that the patient suffers from anemia. A doctor may order an X-ray of the individual's intestines and stomach. The patient is typically required to orally take barium, which is a white, chalky substance that allows the doctor to see ulcerations. A doctor may decide to order a colonoscopy or a CT to see the entire intestines and abdomen, which is typically more effective in diagnosing the disease.

Treatment

Individuals with Crohn disease may experience periods of symptoms or remission. No cure exist for Crohn disease, so many doctors prescribe medications to induce remission. The treatment of Crohn disease depends on the severity of the disease. Individuals suffering from mild symptoms or who are not experiencing symptoms at all may not need treatment. Individuals experiencing severe symptoms may be prescribed anti-inflammatory agents, immuno-modulators, and topical antibiotics. The specific selection of medications depends on the severity of the symptoms. Most patients experience a decline in symptoms within two to four weeks after taking the medications as prescribed. Some individuals experiencing severe symptoms may require surgery.