Crohn’s Disease Symptoms: Recognizing the Signs and Exploring Treatment Options
Chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) called Crohn’s disease disrupts daily life with significant discomfort. Although the exact cause remains a mystery, it’s believed to be an autoimmune response.
In this condition, your body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues in your digestive tract. If you experience symptoms, early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to manage the condition and improve your quality of life.
Common Symptoms of Crohn’s Disease:
- Persistent diarrhea: This can be bloody in some cases.
- Abdominal pain and cramping: Pain can be localized or widespread, and often worsens after eating.
- Urgent need to have a bowel movement (urgency)
- Rectal bleeding: May be present in some cases.
- Weight loss and fatigue: Due to difficulty absorbing nutrients from food.
- Fever: May accompany inflammation.
- Mouth sores: Can be a less common symptom.
Living with Crohn’s Disease:
If you suspect you might have Crohn’s disease, it’s vital to consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment. There’s currently no cure for Crohn’s, but various medications can help manage symptoms and reduce inflammation. Here’s a brief overview of some commonly used medications:
- Humira (adalimumab): This biologic medication targets a specific protein involved in the inflammatory response. Humira is typically administered as an injection under the skin.
- Stelara (ustekinumab): Another biologic medication, Stelara works by targeting a different protein in the immune system. Stelara is also administered by injection under the skin.
- Enbrel (etanercept): This biologic medication helps block a protein that triggers inflammation. Enbrel can be administered via injection or self-administered with an autoinjector pen.
- Remicade (infliximab): A biologic medication delivered through an intravenous (IV) infusion. Remicade works by blocking a protein called tumor necrosis factor (TNF) which contributes to inflammation.
- Tysabri (natalizumab): This biologic medication is administered through an intravenous (IV) infusion. Tysabri works by affecting the movement of certain immune cells, potentially helping to reduce inflammation in the gut.
