Crohn’s disease is an autoimmune inflammatory bowel disease. Any part of the intestinal tract can suffer. Even the oral cavity or anal canal. But most often Crohn’s disease in adults affects the intestines, one or more sections of the large or small intestine are affected. Moreover, inflammation develops not only in the inner lining of the intestine, but also affects the submucosal layers, which leads to a narrowing of the lumen.

This is a chronic disease. The first attack occurs in youth (15-35 years). Subsequently, there are alternating stages of exacerbation and remission. A genetic predisposition to this disease has been proven.

Causes of Crohn’s disease in adults

At the moment there is no exact answer to this question. However, some factors have been identified that increase the likelihood of developing this disease.

1. Past infectious diseases, such as measles.
2. Frequent food allergies.
3. Smoking.
4. genetic predisposition.

Symptoms

It all depends on the location of the injury. Symptoms are divided into 2 groups. Intestinal and extraintestinal. The first group includes stool disorders, inflammation of the anus, abdominal pain, most often dull and prolonged. Extraintestinal manifestations of Crohn’s disease include fever, weight loss, and anemia.

Crohn’s disease treatment

Crohn’s disease in adults is most often treated with medication. The main goal is to reduce inflammation in the intestines, reduce the duration of exacerbation, and also prolong the state of remission, by prescribing cytostatics , biological drugs.

If the form of the disease is severe, then stronger medications are prescribed, and in the acute period, surgery may be required. The choice of treatment depends on the patient’s condition and the localization of the disease.

Medical therapy

There is currently no specific cure for Crohn’s disease in adults that is universal. But the use of one or more drugs early in the disease may relieve symptoms.

Most often used: salicylates, hormones, glucocorticoids, antibiotics, prebiotics , vitamins of group D.

Diet

During remission, patients should follow a diet so as not to provoke deterioration. The main principle of nutrition in Crohn’s disease is a balanced diet and respect for the intestines. A large amount of protein and vitamins is preferred, and fats should be limited.

Nutrition rules:

1. Drink plenty of fluids.
2. Limit the use of flour products.
3. Eat often, but in small portions (5-6 times).
4. Limit fats.
5. Avoid alcohol and spicy foods.
6. Take vitamins.

Operation

About half of patients with Crohn’s disease undergo surgery. It is resorted to only if other methods of treatment have not yielded results. But the operation cannot completely cure, even if it had to remove most of the intestine. The disease may reappear. In severe cases, a bowel transplant from a donor may be needed.