Timeline of Crohn's Disease

Crohn's disease is a chronic autoimmune disorder in which the body's natural defenses against illness and disease are activated spontaneously. Because the body has trouble coping with this constant stimulus of the immune system, it responds with irritation, swelling, inflammation and ulcers. Although the disease is lifelong, it can be difficult to diagnose because the symptoms match many other conditions.

Causes

• No one is certain what causes Crohn's disease. Scientists have suspected that bacterial infections might lead to the disease. In certain cases, there are genetic markers. Patients of certain races have proven more susceptible to Crohn's disease, and it has been shown to run in some families. In some instances, environmental factors, including smoking, can play a part. If a patient suspects that they may have Crohn's disease, it takes a number of tests for a doctor to make this diagnosis.

Symptoms

• Patients who exhibit Crohn's disease typically suffer abdominal cramping and diarrhea (in extreme cases as many as 10-20 times a day) as well as a bloody stool, inflammation of the GI tract and ulcers, particularly in the intestines.

Diagnosis

• If Crohn's disease is suspected, a specialist in gastroenterology is often called on to perform a series of tests to determine the diagnosis. These tests can include an endoscopy, radiology tests including CT and MRI scans, as well as barium X-rays and blood and fecal tests.

Treatment

• When a diagnosis is made, treatment shifts to controlling the disease. Because of the chronic pain associated with Crohn's disease, a mental aspect of counseling is sometimes suggested, as well as physical fitness, lifestyle changes --- including stopping smoking --- and a healthier diet. Additionally, prescription drugs are often given to control pain and reduce the duration and instance of symptomatic flare-ups.

Surgical Options

• Over time, patients suffering from Crohn's can experience a thickening of the intestinal walls, which can lead to a blockage of the GI tract. When this occurs, surgery might need to be performed to relieve the blockage. Although surgery will not cure the patient's Crohn's disease, it will solve the blockage issue. Patients who have had parts of their intestines removed can develop short bowel syndrome, a condition in which nutrients are not absorbed as well through the GI tract. Some symptoms of SBS, including abdominal cramping and diarrhea, can mimic symptoms of Crohn's disease.

Prognosis

• After the disease is diagnosed and management of it begins, patients are able to maintain healthy weight and reduce the instance of flare-ups. Most patients are able to maintain a healthy weight and a full life.