There are a number of causes of Crohn’s disease. Some are linked to lifestyle and environmental issues, while others are due to a faulty immune system. Some risk factors include smoking, urban living, and family history. Other factors include bacterial overgrowth and an overactive or weakened immune system. Certain medications are also suspected to increase the risk of developing Crohn’s disease. A common symptom of Crohn’s disease is a cut or fissure in the inner lining of the anus. This can lead to sharp pain while passing stools. If left untreated, anal fissures can become infected and require medical or surgical intervention.
Cigarette smoking
Smoking can damage the immune system and contribute to the development of Crohn’s disease. It can also alter the function of genes in the colon. Tobacco smoke contains about 1,000 chemicals and is linked to many adverse effects. These chemicals can affect the immune system and change the functioning of healthy gut bacteria. Smoking also alters the lining of the GI tract and changes digestion.
People with Crohn’s disease who smoke are at a higher risk of developing complications that often require surgery. These complications may lead to fistulas or strictures. These are abnormal passages in the gastrointestinal tract. When these problems occur, smoking patients may require additional medication, surgery, or both to correct the problem. People who smoke are also twice as likely to have their disease recur after their surgery.
Coronavirus pandemic
The world is now experiencing a severe coronavirus pandemic, COVID-19. This virus has spread across the globe, with the most common symptoms being a high fever and cough. Other symptoms can include shortness of breath and abdominal discomfort. Patients may also experience loss of appetite, nausea, diarrhea, and muscle aches. Some patients may also experience a loss of smell and taste.
In late 2019, the first cases of this virus were reported from China. A study of COVID-19 patients from Hubei, China, reported respiratory and gastrointestinal symptoms. The results from this study will be published in Gastroenterology. The study was led by Remes-Troche JM, a gastroenterologist and researcher. His co-authors were Furqan F and Saha S.
Diet
Diet is one of the most important factors for treating Crohn’s disease. Eating foods high in fiber and low in fat is essential for a person with the condition. A diet that is high in fat and refined carbohydrates may make the condition worse. But there are many other factors to consider. The diet should include plenty of fruits and vegetables, and the person should avoid foods high in sugar.
Eating lots of fruits and vegetables is important to help the body absorb nutrients. A daily goal is at least half a cup of fresh fruit and vegetables. Eat a variety of vegetables, including those rich in calcium. Broccoli, collard greens, oranges, and white beans are good examples. And don’t forget to drink plenty of water. It is also recommended that you don’t chew gum between meals because it can trigger gas.
Intestinal obstruction
Inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract is one of the hallmarks of Crohn’s disease. Inflammation can cause scar tissue and thicken the intestinal wall. The intestines may also narrow, forming strictures. These narrowings allow waste materials and gas to collect. The result is an obstruction that prevents food from passing through the intestines. In some patients, the disease may spread to other parts of the body, resulting in a fistula.
Treatment of intestinal obstruction varies depending on the cause. In simpler cases, a simple bowel rest and only fluids are recommended. In more complicated cases, surgery may be required. This procedure is designed to remove the blockage and repair any metabolic problems that may be causing the blockage.
Inflammation of the small intestine
Inflammation of the small intestine can result in diarrhea, a common symptom of Crohn’s disease. The disease can also lead to obstructions in the bile ducts, making it difficult to eat or drink properly. The limited flow of bile can also damage the liver. People with IBD are also at increased risk of blood clots. In severe cases, the disease can require surgical removal of the diseased bowel.
Crohn’s disease is a chronic, autoimmune disorder that affects the digestive tract. Typically, the disease affects the lower end of the small intestine and the beginning of the large intestine. It can also affect other parts of the digestive system, including the mouth, food pipe, anus, and liver. The disease can be genetic and run in families.