Overview of Crohn’s Disease
Crohn’s Disease exact reason has not been discovered so far, several research and studies have been conducted to identify the reason for the disease but none of them was successful however, few studies suggest that it primarily triggers from the small intestine and colon followed by other symptoms and damage in the body such as the gastrointestinal tract from the mouth to anus. Recent studies have proven that it can affect the eyes, joints or ligaments, and skin but it is mostly found at the end of the ileum(small intestine). People residing in the USA and within the age group of 15 – 35 years are more prone to get affected by the disease with mild to severe symptoms however, you may develop the disease even if you are living anywhere in the globe and at any age. It is a chronic inflammatory bowel syndrome disease and should not be confused with ulcerative colitis and other bowel syndromes.
Symptoms of Crohn’s Disease
Crohn’s Disease symptoms vary from individuals as they develop from mild to severe gradually if not treated timely however, we have specified some of the commonly reported symptoms underneath:
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal Cramps
- Rectal bleeding
- Fever
- Stomach pain
- Sudden weight loss
- Fatigue
- Constipation
- Nausea
- Mouth Sores
- Chronic exhaustion or fatigue
**Above mentioned symptoms may vary from individuals however, it is recommended to consult a specialist for the diagnose of the ailment.
Causes of Crohn’s Disease
Crohn’s Disease can be caused due to several factors and we have specified some of the reported causes in various studies underneath:
- Immune system (Triggers the gastrointestinal tract causing inflammation)
- Genetics (Inherit the disease from family)
- Surrounding or neighborhood environment (Bacteria, virus, and other free radicals that trigger)
- Smoking (If not controlled timely, it can worsen the disease)
- Age (Young adults below 30years are more prone to get affected by the disease)
- Medicines (Ibuprofen, Naproxen sodium, and Diclofenac sodium)
**It has not been proven in any of the research or study that what exactly triggers the Crohn’s disease but above-mentioned causes may trigger the disease.
Treatment of Crohn’s Disease
Crohn’s Disease treatment so far has not been invented but it is a manageable disease, no need to panic about it. We have specified some of the best treatment which has shown the positive results in curing and controlling the disease within a few weeks under supervision underneath:
- Anti-inflammatory drugs (Corticosteroids and Sulfasalazine)
- Biologics (To boost the immune system)
- Antibiotics
- Multi-vitamins or other dietary supplements
- Balanced diet (Under dietician or nutritionist supervision)
- Surgery (Removing the damage portion of the digestive tract)
**Above mentioned treatment is for the reference and cannot be construed as a medical advice. We strictly recommend consulting a specialist for advice.
Remedies of Crohn’s Disease
Crohn’s Disease can be controlled or managed by simple home remedies with precautions naturally. We have specified some of the best reported natural home remedies underneath:
- Diet –
- Probiotics: Certain food contains a high amount of good bacteria which can do wonders in reducing the inflammation and symptoms of the disease should be consumed regularly or as suggested by the specialist to enhance the good bacteria levels in the intestinal tract. The food which is considered to be a rich source of probiotics are Kefir, Yogurt, Tempeh, Kimchi, and Miso that can be easily procured from the online or nearby stores
- Prebiotics: It is recommended to consume the combination of probiotics and prebiotics for best results as both help in improving the functioning of the intestinal bacteria and overall well being. Prebiotic rich food can be easily procured from the natural source such as Chicory roots, Jerusalem artichoke, Garlic, Onions, and Asparagus
- Dairy Product: You should limit the daily dairy intake to reduce the symptoms and avoid the trigger from mild to severe as it contains the high amount of lactose which is not easily digested by the intestine causing stomach pain and other symptoms. Especially if you are lactose intolerant then you should not consume dairy product as it worsens the disease and symptoms
- Balanced and Healthy Diet: Consult a dietician or nutritionist for the advice to consume a balanced and healthy diet. Generally, it is advised to increase the intake of fiber-rich diet and eliminate or limit the intake of diet rich in fats or high calorie as it is not easily digested by the intestine. You should not consume the diet which causes the development of gas in the abdomen such as broccoli, cabbage, alcoholic drinks, and aerated drinks
- Stay Hydrated: Drink at least 4-5 liters of water in a day to stay hydrated all the time and especially in diarrhea to avoid dehydration in the body
- Fish Oil – We all know that fish oil is the rich source of Omega 3 which can do wonders in reducing the inflammation and other symptoms of the Crohn’s disease naturally however, overdosage can lead to bleeding so consult a specialist for the advice
- Marshmallow – Commonly known as Althaea which is a genus species of perennial herbs and is native to Europe. This herb is used since ages for the treatment of abdominal disorders due to its properties and other benefits. You can consume a 2 – 5 gram of dried Althaea roots in lukewarm water for best results
- Turmeric – It is considered to be the best source of antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties naturally that has shown the positive results in reducing the symptoms of the disease if consumed moderately and regularly. Generally, it is advised to consume 1 – 2 gram of natural turmeric powder regularly in lukewarm water or milk for best results
- Dietary supplements – You should consume supplements rich in Iron and Folic acid to reduce the symptoms of the disease naturally. A lot of companies are manufacturing dietary supplements rich in iron and folic acid but normally 60mg of iron and 400 micrograms of folic acid are considered to be the best combination in reducing the symptoms of Crohn’s disease
Disclaimer: Nothing in this article is to be construed as medical advice, nor it is intended to replace the recommendations of a medical professional. For specific questions, please consult a specialist for the advice.