General information about Crohn’s Disease
Dr.Kut | Feb 27, 2010 | Comments 0
There are many types of inflammatory bowel diseases and one of them is called the Crohn’s disease. This disease normally affects the lower part of the small intestines, however, it is capable of presenting itself anywhere in the digestive track. It is also known as granulomatous enteritis or colitis. This disease however is not easily diagnosed because of the similarities in the symptoms with other diseases.
Crohn’s disease is characterized by inflammation that causes abdominal pain, diarrhea, rectal bleeding and weight lose and in many cases the patient will also suffer from fever. Due to the inflammation, you can also experience blockage of the intestines and swelling of the skin in that particular area. Also, the tunnels adjacent to the intestines in the affected area can get ulcers and can affect other parts of the body as well. Infections can easily move to the vagina, the bladder and sometimes to the skin as well.
Crohn’s disease can lead to problems of malfunction of the digestive system which can cause malnutrition. Other diseases that you can develop from Crohn’s disease may include arthritis, skin problems, kidney problems and inflammation of the eyes and the mouth.
Theories mention that one of the causes of Crohn’s disease is the reaction of the body’s immune system to a virus present in the intestines that creates the inflammation; however, this is not proven as yet. It is also considered to be a hereditary problem that runs in the family. However, the medical science has not been able to pinpoint the exact causes of the disease and its permanent cure.
There are many medications that help you cope with Crohn’s disease. This is considered to be a chronic disease, and although it does give you periods of rest, most people who suffer from this disease will always have digestive problems for the rest of their lives.
In some severe cases, surgery may be an option, to get rid of a blockage in the intestines due to the inflammation or because of the condition of the skin in that part of the digestive track. However, this is not the permanent cure for the disease.
Crohn’s disease may recede for some time, giving you a break from its symptoms; however, it may come up without any notice. However, although this is a painful and uncomfortable disease, it still allows you to live a normal life.
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