Crohn's Disease

Table of Contents

Other names

Regional Enteritis
Ileitis
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD – subtype)
Chronic Intestinal Inflammation

Synopsis

Crohn’s disease is a chronic inflammatory bowel disorder that causes inflammation anywhere along the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, most commonly affecting the end of the small intestine (ileum) and the beginning of the colon. It is part of the broader category of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) and is characterized by flare-ups of abdominal pain, persistent diarrhea, weight loss, fatigue, and nutrient malabsorption.

Unlike ulcerative colitis, which affects only the colon and rectum, Crohn's disease can impact any part of the GI tract from mouth to anus, often in patchy segments and involving all layers of the intestinal wall. The cause is unknown but involves an overactive immune response, likely triggered by environmental factors in genetically susceptible individuals.

Types of Crohn’s Disease (by location):

  • Ileocolitis: Affects the ileum and colon (most common).

  • Ileitis: Affects only the ileum.

  • Gastroduodenal Crohn’s: Affects the stomach and duodenum.

  • Jejunoileitis: Affects the jejunum (upper small intestine).

  • Crohn’s Colitis: Affects only the colon.

Common Causes and Risk Factors:

  • Autoimmune dysfunction (immune system attacking the gut lining)

  • Genetic predisposition (family history)

  • Smoking (increases risk and worsens severity)

  • Environmental factors (Western diet, pollutants)

  • Dysbiosis (imbalanced gut microbiome)

Severity Factors:

  • Frequent flare-ups cause cumulative intestinal damage.

  • Risk of complications such as strictures, fistulas, and abscesses.

  • Severe nutrient malabsorption can lead to anemia, osteoporosis, and growth issues in children.

  • Increases risk of colorectal cancer over time.

When to See a Doctor:

  • Persistent diarrhea, blood in stool, or unexplained weight loss

  • Severe abdominal pain and cramping

  • Fatigue not resolved with rest

  • Symptoms interfering with nutrition or daily function

  • Family history of Crohn’s or other autoimmune disorders

  • Suspected complications like bowel obstruction or fistulas

Natural Remedies

Anti-inflammatory diet: Low-residue, low-fiber during flare-ups; anti-inflammatory foods during remission.

Probiotic-rich foods: Only during remission phases to support microbiome balance.

Avoid common triggers: Dairy, gluten, spicy foods, caffeine, and high-fat meals.

Hydration: Prevents dehydration during diarrhea episodes.

Stress management: Meditation, yoga, or therapy to reduce immune triggers.

Frequent, small meals: Easier to digest and absorb nutrients.

Nutritional supplementation: B12, iron, calcium, magnesium, and vitamin D under medical supervision.