If you have Crohn’s disease, you probably know how to deal with common symptoms like bloating, stomach pain, and diarrhea. But if your condition causes something more serious, like an abscess or ulcer, what should you do? Here is how to handle six complex Crohn’s Symptoms in detail.
Though it may not be pleasant to contemplate, knowing the answer to such inquiries is crucial and can aid in maintaining your health. Six of the most challenging symptoms of Crohn’s disease, as well as options for managing them, are discussed here.
How to Handle Six Complex Crohn’s Symptoms in Detail
1. Ulcers
Ulcers in the mouth, stomach, or intestines can result from Crohn’s disease-related inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract. Peyton Berookim, MD, FACOF, Director of the Gastroenterology Institute of Southern California, warns that antacids, which are typically used to treat stomach ulcers in people who do not have Crohn’s disease, are not helpful. Antacids reduce stomach acid, which isn’t usually what causes Crohn’s-related ulcers.
The procedure: An ulcer related to Crohn’s disease may indicate that your inflammation requires better treatment. Your doctor may first look for an infection in the ulcer, which can be treated with antibiotics. According to Dr. Bernstein, the next step is to take a medication to reduce inflammation if the area is not infected. Pills and intravenous infusions are two options, he continues. Surgery is only necessary if the ulcer tears your intestinal lining, in which case you probably won’t need it.
2. Anal fissures
The thin, moist tissue of the lower rectum can become torn in the event of severe diarrhea or very large, hard stools. According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), although anal fissures are unpleasant, they are relatively simple to treat.
The procedure: Your doctor may suggest numbing creams or daily sitz baths to ease the pain and speed up healing. Creams that block calcium or nitrate channels can make going to the bathroom easier if you’re having trouble. According to The American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons (ASCRS), Botox injections into your sphincter can also help relax the muscle, which reduces pain and spasms and allows the fissure to heal.
What about how to avoid them in the future? According to Marc Bernstein, MD, a gastroenterologist at Florida Digestive Health Specialists, there is no surefire way to prevent fissures; however, avoiding irritating soaps (such as those that contain fragrances or harsh chemicals), attempting not to strain during bowel movements, drinking plenty of water, and consuming a diet high in fiber will all help.
3. Bowel obstructions
Inflammation caused by Crohn’s disease can cause the intestine to swell and narrow, resulting in food blockages. According to the National Library of Medicine, bowel obstructions can be life-threatening and frequently cause pain, cramping, vomiting, constipation, and swelling.
The procedure: Consult your doctor right away if you think you might have an obstruction. Partially blocked drains may not necessitate surgery, whereas complete drains typically do. According to Dr. Bernstein, taking anti-inflammatory medications and resting the bowel by not eating can help reduce the inflammation that may be causing the intestinal narrowing. This may necessitate temporarily receiving nutrition via intravenous fluids before switching to a liquid diet and returning to solid foods.
4. Malnutrition
It’s common knowledge that Crohn’s disease can reduce appetite. When you combine that with poor nutrient absorption as a result of intestinal inflammation, you might run out of important vitamins and nutrients.
The procedure: A registered dietitian and a gastroenterologist can assist you in developing a nourishing and satisfying eating plan. According to the NIDDK, if you are still not receiving all of the nutrients you require, you may need to receive them directly through IV fluids and feeding tubes.
5. Abscesses
These infected, fluid-filled pockets in the abdomen or pelvis can develop in up to 30% of Crohn’s patients. Abscesses can be a complication of Crohn’s disease-related abdominal surgery or the result of intestinal inflammation. They frequently exhibit symptoms such as fever or stomach pain, but there is only one way to diagnose them: a look at the body.
The procedure: When a doctor uses a needle or catheter to get rid of the infected fluid, it’s typically a combination of antibiotics and percutaneous abscess drainage. Surgery may also be required for some severe abscesses.
6. Fistulas
Fistulas are abnormal passages that can occur almost anywhere—for example, between the bowel and the vagina or between an artery and a vein. Untreated abscesses can cause fistulas between the intestinal loops or around the anus in Crohn’s disease patients. They hurt, and they frequently result in bloody or sour pus around the anus, along with a fever or chills. Therefore, you should see a doctor if you think you have one.
The procedure: There is no one best approach to fistula treatment. According to Dr. Berookim, taking anti-inflammatory medications and antibiotics may be the first step. However, surgery may be necessary in some instances to remove all or part of the infected intestinal tissue. Dr. Bernstein asserts, “Your gastroenterologist and colorectal surgeon can develop the best treatment path.”