Getting The Right Diagnosis For Crohn's Disease

Experiencing horrible abdominal pains with diarrhea, and having fever and vomiting at the same time? It is possible that you may have developed Crohn’s disease. You may also find that you are losing a lot of weight in the process and may also be suffering from rectal bleeding. Or it may be that your child is having this disease. You should be concerned as a child with Crohn’s disease can find that his growth and development will be affected.

Getting a diagnosis done is vital to getting the right treatment and help. The symptoms of Crohn’s disease are very similar to other diseases like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and ulcerative colitis and it is important to know exactly what you are suffering from. You also want to ensure that you obtain early treatment before any permanent damage is wrecked on your body.

Crohn’s disease is an inflammation that occurs in the digestive tract which is normally located in the lower intestine. However, the disease can be found in any area of the digestive tract from the anus to the mouth. This inflammation causes pain. It also causes your intestines to empty more quickly, resulting in diarrhea. It affects both males and females of all ages and can even be hereditary in twenty percent of the cases.

Some experts suspect that Crohn’s disease is caused by some bacteria or a virus in the digestive system. Others think that an abnormality in the immune system causes an inflammatory defense response even if there is no known foreign invader. However, no definite cause has actually been found. Contrary to popular belief, it is not caused by stress or anxiety. The cause has not been entirely established, but its symptoms are very noticeable and can affect your total well-being.

For a diagnosis, you will need to undergo a complete medical exam to rule out any other issues first. When this is done, you then need to go through a colonoscopy or upper gastrointestinal series for an examination of your upper and/or lower intestine and to look for signs of inflammation. X-rays may be taken of the digestive system as well. Getting the proper diagnosis can help to reduce the chance of more serious problems, including an intestinal blockage, nutritional shortages, and other illnesses.

As no real causes can be established, it is said that there is no cure for Crohn’s disease. On the contrary, treatment is focused on relieving the symptoms. Herbal treatments, prescription medications, nutritional supplements, and diet changes are necessary to help alleviate the pain and suffering associated with the symptoms.

Keeping abreast on news about this disease can help you, as the patient, to take control of your health. You need to find effective ways to cope with this condition. This can help you improve your quality of life.