Managing Crohn's Health Article

Managing Crohn's

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.

Manage Your Diet

There is no evidence that any particular food or diet aggravates or causes Crohn's disease. It is important to eat a balanced diet with items from each food group. Crohn's can result in poor nutrition, since both inadequate digestion and a loss of appetite commonly occur. Getting enough necessary nutrients can be tricky, so in addition to eating foods rich in vitamins and minerals you may need to consult with your doctor and a dietitian about supplements and special diets for your situation. Some tips for preventing cramping are to eat smaller (fist-sized), frequent meals, rather than the traditional three meals a day. Reduce your intake of fried, greasy and high-fat foods as fats may not be absorbed - but don't take away the junk food completely, especially from kids. Manage chronic diarrhea by increasing your fluid intake to avoid dehydration and kidney stones.

Manage Your Schedule

Don't let Crohn's disease slow you down. Careful planning can make traveling with Crohn's hassle-free. Always have on hand a copy of your medical history from your gastroenterologist and a copy of all of the medications you are prescribed. Take enough medications with you to last as long as your planned trip plus three days. Carry all medications, in their original containers, on the plane with you. Take Pepto-Bismol tablets with you to prevent diarrhea. When traveling abroad, use only bottled mineral water, even for brushing your teeth. Avoid ice, non-carbonated beverages and produce. Carry extra underclothes and know where the restrooms are located. Ask for a seat next to the bathroom. If traveling to undeveloped countries, take your own toilet paper.

Stress Management

Like diet, stress is not a cause of Crohn's disease, but it can worsen the symptoms. Coping with chronic illness requires a special set of skills, so look for a mental health professional who is genuinely interested in and knowledgeable about the special needs of children and adults with Crohn's disease. Stress management can include meditation, individual therapy, support groups and relaxation techniques. Getting control of your stress is crucial to getting control of your disease.

Sexuality

There's nothing like worrying about when you have to go to the bathroom next to make you feel sexy... except maybe severe abdominal cramps. Good communication with your partner - and your doctors - is crucial to having a healthy sex life with Crohn's disease. Be aware that children with Crohn's may have delayed puberty and be subjected to teasing at school. Make sure they know they can talk openly about their bodies and emotions with caring adults in their lives.

Crohn's disease is a serious, but not life-threatening chronic illness. Most people with this diagnosis live happy, productive lives - you can too!