Crohn's Disease its causes with signs and symptoms

Crohn’s disease is an inflammatory bowel disease that can involve any segment of the GI tract from the mouth to the anus but is usually found in the terminal ileum.

1. Crohn's Disease Crohn’s disease is an inflammatory bowel disease that can involve any segment of the GI tract from the mouth to the anus but is usually found in the terminal ileum.

2. Cause Unfortunately, the causes of Crohn’s disease are not yet well understood. Men and women are equally likely to be affected. The disease can occur at any age,  but Crohn’s disease is most likely in adolescents and adults between the ages of 15 and 35. Recent research suggests hereditary, genetic, and environmental factors contribute to Crohn’s disease development.

3. Signs and symptoms Diarrhea – Non bloody stools 5-6 times/day. Stools may also contain large amounts of fat due to malabsorption aka steatorrhea. Abd Pain described as cramping usually located in the lower quadrants. Weight Loss – caused by frequently using the bathroom and decreased absorption of calories. Pt’s may also lose weight due to fear of abd pain. Malabsorption – Frequent stools and intestinal inflammation cause a decreased amount of time for intestinal mucosa to absorb vitamins. Fever

4. Crohn’s Disease vs. Ulcerative Colitis Crohn’s Disease Can affect any part of the GI tract from the mouth to the anus Can affect the entire thickness of the bowel wall Ulcerative Colitis Only the colon and rectum (also known as the large intestine) are affected Affects the inner-most lining of the large intestine

5. Types of Crohn’s Disease Ileocolitis - This is the most common form of Crohn’s disease. It affects the end of the small intestine, known as the terminal ileum, and the large intestine, also called the colon. Ileitis - This type of Crohn’s affects only the ileum. Gastroduodenal Crohn's Disease - This type affects the stomach and the beginning of the small intestine, called the duodenum. Jejunoileitis - This type is characterized by patchy areas of inflammation in the upper half of the small intestine, called the jejunum. Crohn's (Granulomatous) Colitis - This type affects only the colon, also known as the large intestine.

6. Treatment Medication – that is used for crohn’s disease is designed to suppress your immune system’s abnormal inflammatory response that is causing your symptoms. Diet & Nutrition - Crohn’s disease may not be the result of bad reactions to specific foods, paying special attention to your diet may help reduce symptoms, replace lost nutrients, and promote healing. Surgery - The removal of the diseased segment of bowel (resection), the two ends of healthy bowel are then joined together (anastomosis). Treatment for Crohn’s and other IBD varieties can include the use of medication, alterations in diet and nutrition, and sometimes surgical procedures to repair or remove affected portions of your GI tract.