Get the Facts About Crohn's Disease
12/1/2023
Our team at GI Alliance frequently encounters questions from patients about Crohn's disease, a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Crohn's disease is a chronic condition that primarily affects the digestive tract, most commonly the colon and small intestine. Patients with the disease may experience periods of intense symptoms followed by remission. Understanding Crohn's disease and seeking expert care from our digestive disease specialists throughout the United States can aid in its management. Read on to get the facts about this common gastrointestinal (GI) condition.
How common is Crohn's disease?
This question often arises as people seek to understand the prevalence of inflammatory bowel diseases. In the United States, Crohn's disease affects nearly 1 out of 100 individuals, with men and women being equally susceptible. The onset typically occurs between the ages of 15 and 35, although it can develop at any age. While it may not be as widely recognized as some other health conditions, Crohn's disease is not rare. The awareness of its commonality emphasizes the importance of education, early detection, and timely intervention. Consulting a digestive disease specialist, such as those at GI Alliance, can provide personalized insights and care tailored to individual needs.
Is Crohn's disease genetic?
The answer to this question is both simple and complex. While Crohn's disease has been linked to certain genetic mutations, it is not solely hereditary. Several factors can contribute to the development of Crohn's disease, including:
- Genetic predisposition
- Environmental triggers
- Immune system response
The team at GI Alliance can help you understand your personal risk for developing Crohn’s disease.
What are the key symptoms of Crohn's disease?
Understanding Crohn's disease starts with recognizing the symptoms of the condition. While the symptoms of Crohn's can vary, some of the most common include:
- Abdominal pain
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Blood in the stool
- Weight loss
- Fatigue
Identifying these symptoms early enables timely intervention by our digestive health specialists.
How is Crohn's disease diagnosed?
A Crohn's disease diagnosis is generally made through a combination of tests. These may include blood tests, stool tests, endoscopy procedures, and imaging such as computed tomography (CT) scans and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Early diagnosis of this condition can greatly affect treatment outcomes.
How is Crohn's disease treated?
Managing Crohn’s disease with timely and appropriate care is key to improving your health and quality of life. Treatment for this disease is highly individualized and may include one or more of the following:
- Medications to reduce intestinal inflammation
- Dietary supplements
- Nutritional counseling
- Surgery (in severe cases)
- Regular follow-ups with a digestive disease specialist
At this time, there is no cure for Crohn's disease. However, the primary objectives of treatment are to manage symptoms, reduce factors that cause symptoms, and achieve disease remission.
Find support for Crohn’s disease
Finding professional care is crucial for inflammatory conditions like Crohn’s disease. At GI Alliance, we specialize in Crohn’s disease care and offer expert diagnosis, personalized treatment plans, and comprehensive support for those with this challenging health concern. Contact one of our locations throughout the United States today to request a consultation with a member of our GI team. Together, we can manage Crohn's disease and help you lead a fulfilling life.