How to Treat Crohn's Disease With Medication

Crohn's disease is a condition that afflicts the digestive tract. Caused by inflammation, it can affect any part of the digestive system, from the mouth to the esophagus to the stomach, intestines and the rectum. However, in most cases, the disease affects the lowest part of the digestive tract, called the ileum.

Crohn's disease is considered to be a type of inflammatory bowel disease, most commonly known as IBD, and symptoms may be sporadic or chronic in nature. Some individuals diagnosed with Crohn's disease may enjoy weeks, months or years between flareups. Still, many individuals may be treated with medication. Understanding the variety of available treatments helps those who are suffering from various stages of Crohn's to lead full and happy lives.

Instructions

• 1

  Talk to your doctor about medications or treatments that may be used to treat Crohn's disease. In most cases, medications and treatments aim to relieve symptoms, as there is no cure for the disease at present. Your physician may prescribe a wide variety of medications or drugs, depending on your age, the severity and frequency of your flareups, and your ability to tolerate certain medications.

• 2

  Ask your doctor about anti-inflammatories or steroids that are used to treat symptoms of Crohn's disease. Anti-inflammatories may help to reduce the frequency as well as severity of intestinal inflammation.

• 3

  Take OTC (over-the-counter) medications to help with mild to moderate pain and discomfort caused by flareups. Such pain relievers may include acetaminophen or aspirin. Your doctor may prescribe stronger medications if your pain is chronic and disrupts your ability to work or enjoy quality of life. Resist the urge to take too many prescription pain killers, as your body will eventually build up a resistance to such drugs and they won't be effective after chronic use.

• 4

  Take any anti-diarrheals prescribed by your doctor to reduce or eliminate bouts of diarrhea. These will help provide relief, as well as preventing you from becoming dehydrated. Make sure you are always adequately hydrated if you suffer from Crohn's disease: Drink at least 64 oz. of water a day.

• 5

  Ask about any drugs a doctor prescribes that are known to suppress the immune system, as these may work well for your condition, but may also leave you exposed to more common illnesses like viral and bacterial infection. Your doctor may also suggest that you take vitamin supplements or antibiotics for infection. When taking antibiotics, ask your doctor about reactions, and always take the full course of antibiotics, even if you feel better before the prescription has been completely used up.