Understanding Crohn's is the first step in taking control of the monster. Crohn's is a disorder that is chronic and causes inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract. It will usually cause ulcerations of the small and large intestines but may also affect other regions from the mouth to the anus.
The fact that Crohn's Disease can effect any part of the digestive tract, is what separates it from another intestinal condition called Ulcerative Colitis. It is very important to have the correct diagnoses between the two diseases. Chron's is an auto immune disorder meaning the body's own immune system is what causes the damage. In a normal healthy person the immune system protects the body from harmful elements like bacteria, fungus and viruses. When the immune system activates its immune cells and proteins to do battle it causes inflammation at the site. In Crohn's Disease there is a loss of regulation of the immune system within the intestinal tract and it cycles between great activity, ulceration and periods of relative calm (remission).
There are different types of Crohn's Disease. Each type presents its own symptoms.
- One type is called Inflammatory Crohns in which small erosion's & breakdown of the lining of the bowel wall is present.
- Another is called Fibrostenotic. This is where there is much scar issue that has formed from the inflammation. The body will heal the inflammation but the resulting scar tissue is what can cause obstruction.
- Last is Penetrating. The inflammation does through the wall of the bowl and has a tendency to form a connection between loops of bowl or the connection between the bowl and other organs or the skin.
Everyone will experience the disease differently. In some people Crohn's Disease will progress very rapidly leading to complications such as narrowing of the small intestine leading to blockages. Or perforation of the small intestine requiring surgery. By getting diagnoses early, you can drastically change that which may have turned into a poor outcome.
It is estimated that nearly half a million Americans suffer from Crohn's Disease. This condition effects both men and women equally. Crohn's was first recognized in the Jewish community more prevalent than other Caucasian populations in Europe.
God Bless~Labels: Crohns
