WHAT IS CHRON'S DISEASE?
Chron's disease is a chronic condition, that causes inflammation in the digestive tracts. It is a type of inflammatory bowel disease, which can cause abdominal pain, fatigue, severe diarrhea, malnutrition and weight loss.
People with Chron's diseases usually experience flares, which can lead to stronger symptoms. Usually, people with Chron's disease alternate between periods where they have noticeable symptoms, and periods where they might not notice any symptoms at all.
In this article, we're going to look at the top 5 symptoms a person might experience during a Chron's flare and how you can manage them.
SYMPTOMS
1. DIARRHEA
This may be mild or severe, and there could be blood, mucus or pus. There could also be the urge to have a bowel movement, but realize that nothing comes out.
Weight loss is usually experienced by people with Chron's disease. It could be an indication of malnutrition which is caused by not getting enough calories. The reasons why this could happen are; Poor appetite, food aversions, malabsorption, and nutrient losses due to diarrhea or intestinal bleeding.
Fatigue, which is an overwhelming sense of tiredness and lack of energy, is a common symptom of Chron's disease. The fact that you may be lacking enough calories to fuel your body, could be the reason for fatigue.
The level of the pain depends on where the inflammation is in the gut. People usually experience pain in the lower right side of their abdomen.
Nausea is a feeling of discomfort or unease in the stomach, which often happens before vomiting. Nausea and vomiting can be as a result of bowel-wall thickening, inflammations, obstructions and medication side effects. Excessive vomiting and nausea can lead to malnutrition, dehydration, headaches and more.
HOW TO MANAGE CHRON'S FLARE UPS
1. Have regular appointments with your doctor and talk openly about your symptoms.
2. Make sure to take your treatments as prescribed.
3. Keep up with tests and procedures that have to do with Chron's disease.
4. Get a support system
5. Always track and monitor your Chron's disease
6. Avoid smoking
7. Have a well-balanced diet and vitamin and mineral supplements.
8. Exercise regularly.
SUMMARY
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms in this article, it is important to see a doctor right away. While there is no cure for Chron's disease, early diagnosis and treatment can help control flare ups.
I hope you found this information helpful!
