Digestive Health - Crohn's Disease
Crohn’s Disease is a chronic inflammatory bowel condition that can affect any part of the GI tract. It can be painful and debilitating and in some cases, the inflammation can spread to deep areas of the bowels leading to life-threatening complications.
There are many symptoms of Crohn’s Disease involving the digestive tract and even other body systems. Common symptoms include:
• Abdominal pain or cramping
• Diarrhea
• Fatigue
• Weight loss
• Nausea or vomiting
Other signs and symptoms related to Crohn’s Disease include:
• inflammation of the skin, eyes, and joints
• inflammation of the liver or bile ducts
• kidney stones
• iron deficiency
• delayed growth or sexual development in children
Testing & Treatment
Crohn’s Disease is often diagnosed based on symptoms, blood tests and imaging (MRI, colonscopy, sigmoidoscopy). Conventional treatment of Crohn’s Disease will often involve the use of medications that decrease the body’s inflammatory response. This can range from antibiotics, corticosteroids, immunosuppressants and biologics.
A Naturopathic Doctor may recommend additional tests to shed further light into the case. One possible test recommendation may be comprehensive stool testing, which can assess the gut’s bacteria distribution, the presence of yeast or pathological bacteria, and digestive factors. Another test that may be recommended is an IgG Food sensitivity test to uncover possible food-related contributors to inflammation.
Digestive restoration is the key when it comes to the Naturopathic approach to Crohn’s Disease. With the guidance of test results, the treatment plan will aim to:
• Remove bad bacteria and pathogens
• Reinnoculate the system with good bacteria and intestinal factors
• Restore proper digestive function
• Replenish the body with nutrients to support healing and optimal function