Crohn’s disease is not fun to deal with, and to make matters worse, it can be both physically and psychologically troubling for sufferers. Crohn’s disease is a chronic IBD (Inflammatory Bowel Disease) that attacks the intestinal immune system causing it to malfunction. The intestines malfunction due to an overload of white blood cells that accumulate in the stomach mucosa (inner lining of the stomach).
These cells release chemicals that cause the mucosa to swell, irritating the small intestine and/or colon. The resulting inflammation usually causes diarrhea and/or bloody diarrhea, which is one of the most common symptoms of Crohn’s disease.
What is diarrhea? In many cases it is a frequent increase in bowel movements and a decrease in the production of stool that is shaped. Diarrhea is loose, mushy stools, which are often watery. Soft stool is caused by excess fluid secretions in the stomach or upper part of the small intestine. When too much fluid is produced at one time, the colon and lower part of the small intestine cannot absorb the necessary amount of water. Therefore, digested and sometimes undigested food remains watery and quickly passes through the anus and leads to diarrhea.
There are different variations of Crohn’s disease. The 4 main subtypes include:
1. Crohn’s colitis – inflammation of the colon
2. Crohn’s enteritis – inflammation in the small intestine
3. Crohn’s terminal ileitis: inflammation at the end of the small intestine; the area closest to the colon.
4. Crohn’s Entero-Colitis (also known as Ileo-Colitis) – inflammation of both the small intestine and the colon.
Although the symptoms an infected person may experience differ depending on the subtype they have, diarrhea is a painful and unpleasant condition common to all Crohn’s disease sufferers. For this reason, many people with Crohn’s disease seek treatment to control the problem.
The most common symptoms that accompany diarrhea include:
or abdominal cramps
or dehydration
skin irritation
or weight loss
To help alleviate symptoms, you can try applying a warm compress to your stomach to help with cramps. Stay well hydrated by drinking plenty of clear fluids such as water, chicken broth, apple juice, etc. Keep your rectal area clean after having a bowel movement and avoid sitting for long periods of time.
You can also try other treatments to help control diarrhea. For example, there are over-the-counter anti-diarrheal medications available such as:
o Fiber supplements – Antidiarrheal that helps to bulk up stools (IE. Metamucil®). This treatment is usually effective for people with mild cases of diarrhea.
o Loperamide – Antidiarrheal that slows the contraction of the stomach muscles (IE. Imodium®). This treatment is usually prescribed for those who have a more serious condition.
However, it is better to consult a professional before opting for these treatments. You should also visit your doctor if the medicine you are taking does not help treat your diarrhea or worsens the condition.
The medications that are prescribed for the symptoms of diarrhea may or may not work depending on how severe Crohn’s disease is affecting a person. For this reason, many people with the disease also try a diet plan that focuses on eliminating certain foods, such as high-fiber, high-sugar, dairy, and fat that can trigger a bout of loose, watery stools.
Since the foods that trigger diarrhea can be different for everyone, the best way to create a diet that works for you is to create a personal elimination diet.
