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Cancer Small Bowel Treatment for Crohn's

Crohn's disease is a serious health problem that affects the digestive tract. The disease can cause problematic, and even life threatening conditions, and must be treated with medication, surgery and a change in diet.

  1. Crohn's Disease

    • A form of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), Crohn's disease causes an inflammation of the digestive tract that can lead to abdominal pain, malnutrition and life-threatening complications.

    Causes

    • A number of factors contribute to the development of Crohn's disease. One is the presence of an autoimmune disease, in which the immune system is overactive and leads to inflammation. Hereditary can also play a role in causing the disease.

    Medications

    • Drug therapy is usually the first step in the treatment of Crohn's disease. These drugs include anti-inflammatory drugs, immune system suppressors, antibiotics and nutritional supplements.

    Diet

    • Certain foods can promote the symptoms of Crohn's disease. Diet tips for patients include limiting dairy and fatty foods, incorporating fiber and drinking plenty of water.

    Small Bowel Surgery

    • If drug therapy is not effective, patients may need surgery on the effected part of the bowel. During surgery, the damaged portion of the bowel is removed and the healthy sections reconnected. Aside from those who do not respond to drug therapy, surgery may be done on those who have a narrowing or an obstruction of the bowel, or perforation of the bowel. Surgery can temporarily relieve symptoms or provide years of remission.

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