Understanding Crohn’s Disease
Crohn’s disease, also known as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) causes inflammation of the digestive tract. The inflammation caused by Crohn’s can affect and include different areas of the digestive tract varying from person to person.
There is no cure for Crohn’s disease but there is therapy that can reduce signs and symptoms. This autoimmune disease can be painful and debilitating, sometimes leading to life-threatening situations for some people. The inflammation can spread deep into the layers of the affected bowel tissue making it uncomfortable and painful. What causes the condition has yet to be discovered by anyone in the medical field which could also be the reason it can’t be cured. Many of the symptoms produced by Crohn’s match numerous other digestive and gastrointestinal symptoms which can make it difficult to diagnose but there are some differences that can help doctors pinpoint and diagnose the disease.
Crohn’s Disease Symptoms
Crohn’s disease doesn’t constantly affect those who have it there are flare ups and times where the condition is active. The following symptoms are common to experience when there is a flare up.
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal Cramping
- Abdominal Pain
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Bloody Stool
- Weight Loss
- Reduced Appetite
- Mouth Sores
- Pain & Draining Near and Around The Anus
Unfortunately, there are some people who suffer from severe Crohn’s disease which also produces more severe symptoms. The above symptoms listed can become more intensified and more frequent. There are also a few more symptoms they have to deal with such as:
- Inflammation of Skin
- Inflammation of The Eyes
- Inflammation of Joints
- Inflammation of Bile Ducts & Liver
- Delayed Growth of Sexual Development (in children)
Earlier in this article it was mentioned that the cause of Crohn’s remains unknown but professionals in the medical field have some thoughts and beliefs revolving possible causes. One thing that may be causing Crohn’s disease is an autoimmune reaction. An autoimmune reaction happens when the body’s immune system attacks the healthy cells in our body.
Many experts in digestive and gastrointestinal health professions believe that the bacteria in the digestive tract can be what is triggering the immune system. That being said, digestive health issues like SIBO or small intestinal bacterial overgrowth and intestinal permeability which is also known as leaky gut syndrome, are likely taking place. Our gut bacteria is necessary and beneficial for proper digestive functions but if there is an overgrowth it leads to further gut issues. It is the same with a leaky gut, if the bacteria and toxins are able to leak through the intestinal wall and into the bloodstream it leads to increased health issues.
Our gut health impresses on our general health and overall well-being. When something is wrong with the gut it can lead to things being wrong all throughout the body.