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Health
Navigating Crohn’s Disease
Dr Prasanna Shah gives you the low-down; from diagnosis to long-term
management
Crohn’s disease, also known as Crohn’s unknown, but researchers believe that it is
syndrome or regional enteritis, is a chronic a combination of genetic, environmental,
inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that and immune system factors. People with
affects the digestive tract. It is a long-term a family history of Crohn’s disease are at
condition that can cause severe pain and a higher risk of developing the condition.
discomfort, and can significantly impact Additionally, certain environmental
a person’s quality of life. While there is factors such as smoking, diet, and stress
no known cure for Crohn’s disease, there can also play a role in triggering the
are various treatment options available to disease. The immune system is responsible
help manage the symptoms and improve for protecting the body against infection
the overall well-being of individuals living and illness, but in people with Crohn’s
with this condition. disease, the immune system mistakenly
Crohn’s disease is named after Dr. attacks the healthy cells in the digestive
Burrill B. Crohn, who was one of the first tract, causing inflammation.
physicians to describe the disease in 1932. The most common symptoms of Crohn’s
It is estimated that around 1.6 million disease include abdominal pain, diarrhea,
Americans are affected by Crohn’s disease, rectal bleeding, weight loss, fatigue, and
with the majority being diagnosed between fever. However, the severity and frequency
the ages of 15 and 35. However, it can occur of these symptoms can vary from person to
at any age, and both men and women are person. Some individuals may experience
equally likely to develop the disease. mild symptoms that can be managed with
The exact cause of Crohn’s disease is still lifestyle changes and medication, while
SENIORS TODAY | ISSUE #65 | NOVEMBER 2024 25
