Crohn's disease is a chronic inflammatory condition of the gastrointestinal tract. It is part of a group of conditions called inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which also includes ulcerative colitis. Crohn's disease can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract, from the mouth to the rectum, but it is more common in the lower part of the small intestine (ileum) and in the colon.
What is Crohn's Disease?
Crohn's disease is a chronic inflammatory condition of the digestive tract, which can affect any part of it. The main symptoms include abdominal pain, diarrhea, weight loss, fever and fatigue. Although the exact cause is unknown, it is believed that a combination of genetic, immune and environmental factors contribute to the disease. Treatment aims to reduce inflammation and may include medication, dietary changes and, in some cases, surgery. Crohn's disease is a form of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and can range in severity from mild to severe.
What differentiates Crohn's Disease from Ulcerative-Hemorrhagic Rectocolitis?
Crohn's disease and hemorrhagic ulcerative colitis (UC), also known as ulcerative colitis, are two distinct diseases, but they belong to the same group of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD). They have several significant differences, including in terms of location, distribution and symptoms. Here is how these two conditions are differentiated:
Location and distribution:
Crohn's disease: It can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract, from the mouth to the rectum. However, it is more common in the lower part of the small intestine and can cause inflammation at discontinuous points, creating "lesions" or affected areas interspersed with healthy areas.
Ulcerative-hemorrhagic rectocolitis: RUH is limited to the colon and rectum and typically affects only this portion of the gastrointestinal tract. The inflammation is continuous and usually develops from the rectum upwards towards the colon.
Type of inflammation:
Crohn's disease: Inflammation in Crohn's disease can involve all layers of the intestinal wall and can cause the formation of fistulas, strictures and ulcers. The inflammation can also affect the surrounding tissues, such as adjacent tissues of the intestine or other organs.
Ulcer-hemorrhagic rectocolitis: The inflammation in RUH is more superficial, mainly affecting the colon mucosa. This causes ulcers and bleeding in the colon, but does not form fistulas or stenosis.
Symptoms:
Crohn's disease Symptoms: Includes abdominal pain, chronic diarrhea, rectal bleeding, weight loss and fatigue.
Ulcerative-hemorrhagic rectocolitis: Symptoms of RUH include bloody diarrhea, abdominal pain, frequent need to go to the toilet and a feeling of urgent need to defecate.
How is Crohn's Disease classified?
Crohn's colitis
Crohn's colitis is another name for Crohn's disease, a chronic inflammatory condition of the gastrointestinal tract, as I explained previously.
Ileita
The term "ileitis" refers to inflammation of the ileum, which is the lower part of the small intestine. In the context of Crohn's disease, ileitis can be a specific form of inflammation in this area.
Ileocolitis
Ileocolitis is a specific form of Crohn's disease in which the inflammation affects both the ileum (the lower part of the small intestine) and the colon.
Jejunoileitis
Jejunoileitis refers to inflammation of the jejunum, which is the upper part of the small intestine. It can also be involved in rarer cases of Crohn's disease, but is less common than ileum involvement.
Gastro-duodenal Crohn's disease
This term indicates that the specific inflammation associated with Crohn's disease also affects the stomach and duodenum. This is a rarer form of Crohn's disease and can have specific symptoms, such as abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting.
Perianal disease
Perianal Crohn's disease refers to the involvement of the perianal area in Crohn's disease. This can lead to anal fistulas, abscesses, ulcers and other complications around the anal area.
What are the causes of Crohn's disease?
The causes of Crohn's disease are not fully understood, but research suggests that a combination of genetic, immunological and environmental factors play a role in the development of this condition. Below, we have detailed several aspects related to the causes of Crohn's disease:
Risk factors in Crohn's disease
Family history: People who have blood relatives with Crohn's disease have a higher risk of developing this condition. There is a genetic component in the development of the disease.
Genetic factors: Certain genes associated with the immune system seem to be involved in the predisposition to Crohn's disease.
Immune system: An imbalance in the immune system can play a role in the development of Crohn's disease. The immune system of people with this condition seems to react abnormally to bacteria or other substances in the gastrointestinal tract.
Environmental factors: Certain aspects of the environment can contribute to the development of Crohn's disease. For example, exposure to tobacco smoke, a diet high in processed foods, frequent use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and high levels of pollution can influence risk.
Previous intestinal infections: A history of previous intestinal infections can increase the risk of developing Crohn's disease in some cases.
Is Crohn's disease contagious?
We are often asked if Crohn's Disease is passed on, and the answer is yes, as it has a strong genetic component, which means that there is an increased risk of developing the disease if you have a family history of this condition. However, Crohn's disease is not transmitted directly or simply as an infectious disease. Genetic predisposition can increase the chance of developing the disease, but not all family members with a predisposition will necessarily develop the disease.
Crohn's disease: Symptoms and defining signs
Crohn's disease symptoms - These may vary from one person to another and may depend on the location and severity of the condition. The defining symptoms and signs of Crohn's disease may include:
- Abdominal pain, usually in the lower abdomen
- Chronic diarrhea
- Rectal bleeding
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fatigue and weakness
- The frequent need to go to the toilet
- Urgent defecation
- Lack of appetite
- Joint inflammations (arthritis)
- Perianal adhesions or fistulas
- Oral or mucosal ulcers
How does Crohn's disease manifest itself in children?
Crohn's disease can also affect children, and its presence can involve symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea and weight loss. However, in children, Crohn's disease can have some peculiarities:
Delayed development: Crohn's disease can interfere with the growth and development of children.
Malnutrition: Chronic diarrhea and malabsorption can lead to malnutrition.
Sexual development problems: In the case of adolescents, the disease can affect sexual development.
Complications of Crohn's Disease
Complications can occur during Crohn's disease and can vary depending on the severity and location of the disease. These complications may include:
Fistulas: Abnormal openings between organs or between intestines and skin.
Stenosis: Narrowing of the intestinal lumen.
Abscesses: Collections of pus.
Severe hemorrhages: Bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract.
Perforations: Holes in the intestinal walls.
Colorectal cancer (rare).
Treatment options in Crohn's Disease
Crohn's syndrome is a complex and chronic condition of the gastrointestinal tract, characterized by persistent inflammation of the intestinal walls and various symptoms, such as abdominal pain, chronic diarrhea and rectal bleeding. There are several treatment options for Crohn's disease, which may include:
Drug treatment
This may involve the use of anti-inflammatory drugs, corticosteroids, immunosuppressive drugs, or biological therapy to control inflammation and relieve symptoms.
Diet in Crohn's Disease
Crohn's disease diet - must be individually adapted, taking into account the variations in symptoms and food tolerance of each person. In general, avoid foods that make symptoms worse, such as dairy, fatty foods, caffeine, and alcohol. Opt for easily digestible foods, such as white rice, boiled potatoes and boiled lean meat, and consume fiber carefully, preferring soluble fiber. Supplements may be necessary to combat possible nutrient deficiencies. Maintain adequate hydration and consult a nutrition specialist to develop a personalized food plan, adapted to individual needs and symptoms. Collaboration with doctors and nutritionists is essential in the effective management of Crohn's disease, because the symptoms vary from one person to another.
Alternative therapies to stimulate immunity
Ozone therapy can be very helpful for patients with Crohn's disease, it involves the use of ozone (O3) for therapeutic purposes. Ozone is a gas made up of three oxygen atoms, and is believed to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. In the context of Crohn's disease, ozone therapy can be used to support the immune system and reduce inflammation. However, the effects and effectiveness of ozone therapy in treating Crohn's disease are not fully understood and may vary from one patient to another.
Also, frequency therapy is indicated in Crohn's disease. Frequency therapy involves the use of electromagnetic frequencies to influence the body and stimulate the immune system. It is claimed that this therapy can help reduce inflammation and stimulate the healing of affected tissues. It is also said to help manage pain and other symptoms associated with Crohn's disease. However, frequency therapy is considered an alternative approach and is not part of the standard treatment for Crohn's Disease. Ozone therapy can be of great help to patients with Crohn's Disease.
Methods of prevention in Crohn's disease
Preventive Medicine plays a key role for Crohn's Disease. In addition to adopting a balanced diet, rich in fruits, vegetables and fiber, avoiding processed foods and saturated fats. Managing stress by practicing relaxation techniques, we invite you to discover the preventive medicine services at Quantica720°! Discover preventive medicine services from Quantica720°!
Find out more soon about Crohn's Disease and other digestive disorders in the seminar held by Dr. Riccardo Annibali!
