Crohn’s disease is a type of chronic disorder that creates inflammation along the digestive tract or the gastrointestinal tract, also known as the GI tract. As an ongoing condition, it’s important for anyone that has Crohn’s disease to work with one of the gastroenterology specialists at our Ocean Parkway or Cobble Hill offices in Brooklyn, NY for ongoing care and support. This condition can vary and involve any component of the GI tract from the mouth through the digestive system to the anus. It is most common for people who suffer from pain and discomfort caused by the disease in the small intense and the colon.
Understanding Crohn’s Disease
The condition was first studied and researched by Dr. Burrill B. Crohn, Dr. Leon Ginzburg, and Dr. Gordon D. Oppenheimer. The three men published a landmark paper that described the condition in 1932. Crohn’s disease as well as ulcerative colitis, a type of related condition, are two of the largest types of conditions that are a part of a group of illnesses called inflammatory bowel disease or IBD. If you’ve been diagnosed with Crohn’s disease, or you believe you have it, your Crohn’s disease doctor in Brooklyn will work closely with you to understand the exact origin of your condition whenever possible.
The symptoms of Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis are very much the same. It can be hard for doctors to pinpoint which condition you have initially. And, it is estimated that about 10 percent of all people with colitis are unable to pinpoint what type they have – Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. In these cases, individuals will simply have indeterminate colitis.
What Occurs in Crohn’s Disease?
Both conditions have a strong link in symptoms. This stems from an abdominal response by the body’s immune system. You may know the immune system is a large system that is present throughout the body. It’s made up of various cells and proteins. In a normal system, the immune system works to protect the body from infection. For those who struggle with this disease, on the other hand, the immune system seems to be reacting in the wrong manner. Researchers believe that the immune system mistakes microbes such as the bacteria located in the intestines (normal bacteria necessary for proper digestion) to be foreign substances. It attacks it instead of allowing the bacteria to remain present.
When this happens, the body’s white blood cells get to work and line the walls of the intestines and then produce inflammation. Over time, the white blood cells develop harmful products in response to the bacteria. However, this will ultimately cause ulcerations and bowel injury to you. This is when you may develop symptoms of IBD.
In most people, this condition affects the small intestine and the very beginning portion of the large intestine. However, it can also occur in other areas of the GI tract. For those who have ulcerative colitis, comparatively, the condition impacts only the colon. For those with Crohn’s disease specifically, all components of the intestine are involved in the inflammation. It is common for normal, healthy bowel areas to be present alongside diseased bowel. Ulcerative colitis, on the other hand, only impacts the superficial layers of the colon, called the mucosa. This condition has a more even level of distribution throughout the body and generally starts at the anus.
Frequently Asked Questions About Crohn’s Disease
What are the common symptoms of Crohn’s disease?
Symptoms range from mild to severe and may differ from one individual to another. Some people may also go through a phase of no symptoms, followed by a phase with many symptoms.
The common intestinal symptoms of Crohn’s disease include:
- Diarrhea
- Blood in the stool
- Abdominal pain
- Rectal bleeding
- Unexplained weight loss
Can Crohn’s disease exhibit symptoms outside the gastrointestinal tract?
Yes. Crohn’s disease is an inflammatory condition that can affect more than just the digestive system. Extra-intestinal symptoms of Crohn’s disease include:
- Joint pain
- Skin rashes
- Eye irritation/inflammation
- Mouth sores
- Fatigue and anemia
What are the causes of Crohn’s disease?
The precise cause remains unidentified. Nevertheless, it is thought to stem from a combination of genetics, an exaggerated immune response, and environmental influences. The immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue in the digestive tract, leading to chronic inflammation. Stress, smoking, and long-term use of NSAIDs can increase the risk of flare-ups.
How does my GI specialist diagnose Crohn’s disease?
After reviewing symptoms, your gastroenterologist may use one or more tests to help diagnose Crohn’s disease. Your gastroenterologist may order blood work, stool tests, imaging studies, endoscopy, or a colonoscopy. During a colonoscopy, small tissue samples may be taken for biopsy. These tests help confirm the diagnosis and determine the severity of the disease.
What treatment options are available for Crohn’s disease?
There’s no cure for Crohn’s disease, but treatment can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. The goal of treatment is to reduce symptoms, control inflammation, heal the bowel, and prevent flare-ups.
Treatment options may include immunosuppressants, anti-inflammatories, biologic therapies, antibiotics, painkillers, and antidiarrheals. Your doctor may also recommend bowel rest and diet therapy to manage symptoms. We’ll tailor your treatment plan based on your condition and response to therapy.
Is surgery an option?
Surgery is not usually the first treatment choice, but it may be needed if medications are not effective or complications develop. Surgery can remove damaged sections of the intestine or treat strictures and fistulas. Even after surgery, ongoing medical care is essential to manage the disease.
What are the potential complications of untreated Crohn’s disease?
Without proper treatment, Crohn’s disease can lead to serious complications. These may include bowel obstruction, abscesses, fistulas, malnutrition, and intestinal wall perforations. Long-term inflammation can also raise the risk of colon cancer.
Are there lifestyle changes that can help manage Crohn’s disease symptoms?
Yes. While lifestyle changes do not cure Crohn’s disease, they can help manage symptoms. Reduce the risk of flare-ups with the following simple lifestyle changes.
- Eat a high-fiber diet and limit the intake of sugary, processed foods
- Identify and avoid trigger foods
- Stay hydrated
- Manage stress
- Quit smoking
Regular follow-up with your GI specialist also plays a key role in symptom control.
Is treating Crohn’s disease in Brooklyn, NY, expensive?
The cost of treatment varies depending on the severity and the type of care needed. Our team will provide a cost breakdown during consultation. We’ll also explore how to manage your treatment with insurance and financing options.
Where can I see a Crohn's disease specialist in Brooklyn, NY?
Digestive disorders such as Crohn's Disease can compromise your health and quality of life, but it doesn't have to be the case. Experience expert Crohn's disease treatment at your leading GI office, Atlantic Gastroenterology. Call 718 521-2840 to schedule a consultation with our board-certified gastroenterologists, Dr. Alexander Shapsis and Dr. Jason Saltiel. It's time to feel like yourself again with expert, personalized care.