Autoimmune Reaction
An autoimmune reaction — where your immune system attacks healthy cells in your body — could be one cause of Crohn’s disease. According to experts, bacteria in your digestive tract can incorrectly activate your immune system. And this, in turn, causes inflammation, which leads to Crohn’s disease symptoms.
Genes
Crohn’s disease can run in families. According to research, having a parent or sibling with the same condition can increase your likelihood of developing it as well. However, experts are still looking into the connection between genes and the disease.
Other risk factors that can slightly increase your chances of developing the said disease include the following:
- Certain medications (i.e., antibiotics, birth control pills, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs)
- High-fat diet
Meanwhile, cigarette smoking can double your risk of getting Chron’s disease.
Possible Complications of Chron’s Disease
If you are diagnosed with Chron’s disease, there is a possibility that it may lead to one or more of the following complications:
- Bowel obstruction
- Ulcers
- Fistulas
- Anal fissure
- Malnutrition
- Blood clots
- Colon cancer
- Other health problems (i.e., anemia, skin disorders, osteoporosis, arthritis, gallbladder, or liver disease)
- Medication risks (i.e., lymphoma, skin cancers, osteoporosis, bone fractures, cataracts, glaucoma, diabetes, high blood pressure)
Treatment and Management
Crohn’s disease has no cure, but treatments can reduce inflammation in your intestines, relieve symptoms, and prevent further complications.
Medication, bowel rest, and surgery are all options for treatment. There is no single treatment that is effective for everyone. Some people may also need to undergo lifestyle changes. Quitting smoking, exercising regularly, eating a low-fat, healthy diet, and managing stress may all help to relieve the symptoms.
Coordinate with your doctor to understand what treatment will work best for you.
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