Crohns Disease- Symptoms, Causes, Treatment and Home Remedies

What is Crohns Disease?

Crohns Disease is a long lasting disorder causing inflammation of digestive or gastrointestinal (GI) tract. It can affect any part of the GI tract, from the mouth to the anus, but mostly the lower part of the small intestine, called the ileum. Approximately 1 in 1,500 people can get Crohns disease, and it can be mostly seen in women than men. It can happen to the people of any age, but usually starts between the ages of 15 and 40. Crohns disease was first discovered by Dr. Burrill B. Crohn in 1932. Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis are together sometimes referred to as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). It is not contagious.

Crohns disease is also known by the names ileitis and enteritis.

Crohns disease is of three types : ileocolic Crohn's disease, Crohn's ileitis, Crohn's colitis.

Causes of Crohns Disease

• Immune system abnormalities such as aphthous stomatitis and rheumatoid arthritis.
• A protein called anti-tumor necrosis factor (TNF) produced by immune system.
• The body’s reaction with the antigens found in the environment or reaction within these antigens.
• Infection by certain bacteria, such as strains of mycobacterium.
• Hereditary - first degree relatives (brothers, sisters, children, and parents).
• Smoking
• Diets with in sweet, fatty or refined foods.

What are the symptoms of Crohns Disease?

• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhea
• Rectal bleeding
• Weight loss
• Arthritis
• Skin problems
• Fever
• Vomiting and nausea
• Growth failure
• Blockage and malnutrition
• Sores in the mouth
• Bowel obstruction
• Ulcers
• Stress, anxiety, and extreme emotions

Crohns Disease Treatment

• Cortisone or Steroids such as prednisone to treat severe cases.
• Anti-inflammation drugs such as sulfasalazine, dipentum, asacol, etc may be used to control the inflammation.
• Immune System Suppressors such as azathioprine and 6-mercaptopurine can also be used to control the abnormal function of immune system.
• Infliximab (Remicade) is another medication to block the body's inflammation response in some severe cases.
• Antibiotics such as ciprofloxacin, metronidazole are used to prevent further infection.
• Anti-diarrhoeal medicines and pain killers may also be prescribed.
• A multivitamin and iron supplement may be recommended by the physician.
• Avoid diet with bulky foods, milk, and milk products.
• Surgical methods such as removal of a portion of diseased bowel, the draining of an abscess or fistula, can be recommended in some cases.