Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, affects as many as 1.6 million Americans, with 70,000 new cases diagnosed each year. This persistent disease negatively impacts the quality of life of patients and imposes a heavy economic burden.
I am one of the 1.6 million people who have been diagnosed with Crohn’s disease.
What is Crohn’s disease?
Crohn’s disease is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that causes inflammation and damage to the lining of the digestive tract. It usually affects the ileum (the end of the small intestine) and the beginning of the colon.
Often confused with Crohn’s disease is ulcerative colitis. Although the symptoms are similar, the parts affected are different. Crohn’s disease can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract and the entire thickness of the bowel wall, while ulcerative colitis affects the large intestine and the colon, the innermost lining of the bowel.
symptom
Severity and symptoms vary from patient to patient. When Crohn’s disease is active, symptoms may include:
- fever
- fatigue
- abdominal pain and cramping
- loss of appetite
- lose weight
- diarrhea
- constipate
- blood in stool
reason
The exact cause of Crohn’s disease is unknown, but researchers believe there is a link between genetics, immune system disorders, and environmental factors. Recent research from Case Western University School of Medicine has also identified a fungus as the underlying cause. Other studies have shown that 5% to 20% of patients have a first-degree relative who also has the disease. While all the triggers are unknown, several risk factors include smoking, diet, use of antibiotics, and use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
treat
There is currently no cure for Crohn’s disease. Ongoing research uncovers treatments that can help patients achieve and maintain remission and improve quality of life. These include medicines, diet and nutrition, and surgery. Continuing research could lead not only to more treatments, but possibly a cure as well.
resource:
Case Western Reserve University: September 20, 2016
http://www.ccfa.org/what-are-crohns-and-colitis/what-is-crohns-disease/
