Severe stomach aches accompanied by diarrhea can be a symptom of any condition from simple food poisoning to chronic disorders like Crohn’s disease and colitis. For people suffering from simple food poisoning, addressing the root cause of the problem through the right medication can give relief and treatment to the patient.
However, for others who are suffering from more complex chronic conditions like Crohn’s, long-term treatment and life-altering situations are to be expected. Doctors will do a series of tests to make sure that your symptoms are not caused by other medical condition.
Aside from blood and stool tests, endoscopy to check your upper gastrointestinal tract, as well as your lower intestinal tract through colonoscopy in clinics in Salem can be ordered. In some cases, X-rays, ultrasounds, as well as MRI and CT scans can also be performed to have a clearer view of your condition.
Once Crohn’s is confirmed, proper knowledge about the condition is necessary.
What is Crohn’s disease?
Crohn’s disease is a type of inflammatory bowel disease that affects the small intestine and a part of the large intestine. It can affect any part of your gastrointestinal tract ranging from the mouth to the anus. Because the colon is affected, symptoms occur like diarrhea, extreme stomach ache, blood in the stool, and sudden weight loss, among others.
The symptoms itself can range from mild to debilitating and can dormant to at some point in time.
What causes the condition?
Years of research still failed to determine what causes the condition nor find a cure for it. However, doctors can give you a list of things that trigger the inflammation in order for one to effectively manage it and lessen the symptoms.
Who are the most susceptible to the condition?
Most people who have Crohn’s are diagnosed between 20-29 years old. However, it is also possible for children to have it. The cause might be unknown, but if you have family members who had the same condition, your risk of having Crohn’s is higher. It is also higher if you have the habit of smoking.
How can one manage Crohn’s disease?
The disease itself is not life-threatening. However, it is life-altering in a way that the pain is debilitating if your colon is inflamed. Specific lifestyle changes can be done to prevent this from happening. For one, eating food rich in fiber and necessary nutrients will help boost your body’s immune system.
Getting active and reducing stress in your life can also help alleviate the symptoms. However, if the condition is severe and does not respond to lifestyle changes, then surgery might be required. Patients who require surgery to help manage their Crohn’s usually involve removing the inflamed or affected area. Then you manage the healthy pieces together to help improve one’s gastrointestinal tract and overall health.
Crohn’s disease is life-altering, and despite not having a cure for it, there are a lot of ways to live the kind of life that you want. Being informed about your condition and making the necessary lifestyle changes are some of the easiest and most effective ways to live through your condition.
