Crohn's Disease

It is a disease characterized by inflammation of the digestive system. Inflammation and ulcers occur in the intestines. Crohn's disease Symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and weight loss are seen during the disease. The disease usually begins in the last part of the intestines. Although the exact cause is not known, genetic and immune system factors may be effective. If left untreated, it can lead to complications. Early diagnosis and treatment are important in managing the disease.

What are the symptoms of Crohn's disease?

The most common symptom is abdominal pain and cramping. This pain is usually concentrated in the lower abdomen. Persistent diarrhea, Crohn's disease This is a common condition experienced by people with diabetes. Diarrhea can be more severe during flare-ups of the disease. Excessive weight loss is common. This occurs because the absorption of nutrients is difficult. A constant feeling of tiredness in the body is often seen due to the disease. This may be due to the disease negatively affecting the body's energy levels. Blood in the stool can be common, especially in cases where the disease is severe. This is a sign of inflammation in the intestines.

During a flare-up of the disease, a fever may occur. A high fever usually indicates that the body is fighting an infection or inflammation. Anemia is a common condition experienced by people with this disease. Inflammation reduces the absorption of nutrients, which can lead to iron deficiency. It can also lead to joint inflammation, which can cause pain, swelling, and limited movement in the joints. These symptoms include Crohn's disease It can vary depending on the severity and which area is affected. If these symptoms are present, it is important to see a gastroenterologist.

What Causes Crohn's Disease?

The disease has a genetic component. Individuals with a family history of the disease are at higher risk of developing Crohn's disease. Certain genetic mutations, in particular, can cause the immune system to overreact. Crohn's disease, It is a condition in which the immune system mistakenly overreacts to substances that are normally harmless. This faulty immune response leads to inflammation in the intestines. Environmental factors can also trigger the disease. For example, smoking can alter the intestinal flora and worsen the course of the disease. It is also thought that a diet rich in high-fat, processed foods may trigger the disease.

When the bacterial balance in the intestines is disrupted, this can pave the way for the development of the disease. An overgrowth of intestinal microbes or the proliferation of the wrong types can cause the immune system to overreact. It is a condition that belongs to the inflammatory bowel disease family. This disease has genetic similarities to other inflammatory bowel diseases. As a result, Crohn's disease The cause is the combination of multiple factors. The disease may develop differently in each individual. These factors may vary depending on the person's genetic structure, environmental factors and immune system, as well as the state of the intestinal microbiome.

What are the Treatment Methods for Crohn's Disease?

Anti-inflammatory drugs are used to reduce inflammation. Drugs such as 5-ASA may be effective in mild to moderate forms of the disease. Corticosteroids are drugs that quickly reduce inflammation in cases of severe inflammation. However, long-term use can have side effects. Drugs such as azathioprine or methotrexate help control inflammation by suppressing the immune system. Biologic drugs such as TNF inhibitors (infliximab, adalimumab) are used to treat more advanced cases. These drugs block the immune system's overreaction. In some cases, drug therapy may not be enough and surgery may be required.

Surgical treatment is usually performed to relieve complications (bowel obstruction, abscesses, fistulas, etc.) or to remove the affected section of bowel. Surgery does not cure the disease, but it can control the symptoms and improve the patient's quality of life. Crohn's disease Individuals with diabetes may have difficulty tolerating certain foods. Avoiding high-fiber foods and dairy products may help relieve symptoms. It may also be important to work with a dietitian to ensure that the body is getting enough nutrients. Sometimes, nutritional supplements and enteral feeding methods may also be used.

Stress can trigger symptoms of the disease. Getting psychological support, practicing meditation, yoga and relaxation techniques can help reduce stress. Some patients may prefer alternative treatment methods in addition to traditional treatment. However, there is not enough scientific data on the effectiveness of these treatment methods. Acupuncture, probiotic supplements and herbal treatments may be beneficial for some patients. However, these should be used with a doctor's approval. Treatment of the disease requires a personalized approach for each individual. The treatment plan should be determined according to the course of the disease, symptoms and individual needs.