Crohn's Disease of Colon : In Depth - Managing Your...

Crohn's disease—a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that results in swelling and inflammation of the digestive tract—must be treated with regular visits to a gastroenterologist. Symptoms - while serious - may be managed with routine lifestyle changes, education and effective coping skills. Dietary changes, reduced stress and good day-to-day planning can ensure a normal, active life for anyone with Crohn's disease.

Education
Be informed - learn everything you can about Crohn's. Understanding what triggers symptoms and how to prevent flare-ups will allow you to control your illness instead of allowing Crohn's to control your life. Be empowered to be an active member of your health care team. Discuss new treatment options with your gastroenterologist as they become available. A good doctor- patient relationship is crucial to managing Crohn's disease.

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Crohn's is a chronic inflammatory disease of the bowel and treatment is focused on reducing inflammation. Treatment options include medications, nutritional supplements and surgery either alone or in combination. Complementary and alternative treatments are used to help relieve symptoms in conjunction with other therapies. Treating Crohn's disease effectively is complex - goals of therapy are to alleviate symptoms and to prevent flare-ups. It is important to develop a strong partnership with your gastroenterologist and nutritionist.

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