Health Tip: Controlling Crohn's Disease
(HealthDay News) -- Crohn's disease causes inflammation of the digestive tract, resulting in symptoms including abdominal pain and diarrhea.
While there is no cure, a combination of medication, nutritional supplements and surgery can help control symptoms.
The National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse offers this list of treatment options:
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Most people with Crohn's are initially treated with mesalamine, a substance that helps control inflammation of the digestive tract.
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Other medications are available if mesalamine doesn't prove effective or cannot be tolerated, including Remicade (infliximab) or a class of drugs called corticosteroids.
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Medications that suppress the immune system.
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Fluid replacement treatments and anti-diarrhea medications.
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Eating a healthy, balanced diet, and avoiding foods that trigger symptoms.
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Nutritional supplements.
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Surgery may well be required to alleviate blockages, or treat other complications including intestinal perforations, abscesses or bleeding.
Date Last Reviewed:
4/18/2008
Date Last Modified:
4/18/2008