Crohn’s Disease is normally not fatal. However the side effects and resulting complications can be deadly if left untreated. Crohn’s sufferers live through long periods of remission with not so frequent flare ups if the illness is managed correctly. Many doctors think Crohn’s can be cured with correct diet as well as the right lifestyle changes. Implementing these changes with prior planning will go a long way in controlling the illness as well as improve the quality of life.
Once your illness is diagnosed, then it is time to begin learning all that you can about how to manage your condition. Your doctor is the prime source for specific information concerning support resource groups as well as information about the illness itself. Also, the internet makes it a snap to find local support groups in your town as well as a host of library resources for learning about Crohn’s management and control.
No one knows what causes Crohn’s Disease. Most in the medical community resort to conventional measures for dealing with the chronic illness. This means relying on minor lifestyle changes such as eliminating certain foods from your diet and prescribed medications for the various symptoms of the condition. Food triggers include dairy products, spicy foods, as well as foods high in fat and sometimes even high in fiber. Crohn’s sufferers can easily identify these triggers because the discomfort and pain come shortly after eating.
If you do have pain after eating, take that food out of your diet. You can reintroduce it later in smaller quantities. Some sufferers of Crohn’s Disease turn to a raw food diet of organic produce, juicing their fruits and vegetables to encourage faster and easier digestion. Another concern is malnutrition because with this type illness, the body loses its ability to absorb the right amount of nutrients. Couple this with loss of appetite and you have a real problem that could lead to malnourishment. Ask your doctor to refer you to a dietitian who can create a diet that will sustain you complete with foods, supplements and and vitamins.
The best way to manage Crohn’s is to take the guesswork out of your social activities. A little planning ahead of time will control those unpredictable symptoms that make most people want to stay home in the first place. Side effects such as diarrhea, gas and stomach pain tend to discourage social activities, mainly out of fear of embarrassment. However, it’s important to make an effort to take part in activities that you enjoy if only to maintain a normal life. One way to do this is to choose destinations close to home and where you feel comfortably in control. Upon arrival make note of the all restroom locations as a way to relieve anxiety or stress should an outbreak occur. To lessen worry, travel with extra toilet tissue and or undergarments.
Stress plays a big role in the outbreak of symptoms associated with Crohn’s Disease. Controlling stress and anxiety goes a long way in handling flare-ups. Finally, build a support system of friends, family, and medical care providers. Honest and open relationships with these people or groups will enable you to function normally ensuring that you receiving the best care and support.