Manage Crohn's disease: Practical strategies

While Crohn's disease is a serious disorder often associated with painful symptoms, it is rarely fatal¹. However, it is a chronic disease with many complications¹. Despite the possibility of long periods of remission, there is no known medical cure for Crohn's disease. The good news is that there are practical techniques you can learn that may help you manage many of your symptoms.

Learn about Crohn's disease

Learn all you can about Crohn's disease. Your healthcare provider may be a good place to start. They can answer questions and may suggest specific resources for further information and support. The Internet and books on inflammatory bowel disease may also be valuable sources of information on Crohn's disease and its management.

Choose your diet carefully

Although there is no evidence that diet is a direct cause of Crohn's disease, the foods you eat might make a difference in the severity of your symptoms². For instance, you may find that certain foods and beverages are less tolerable during flare-ups. While everyone is different, some of the foods that commonly cause problems include:

• Dairy products
• Spicy foods
• Some foods high in fiber
• Some foods high in fat

Eliminating and reintroducing certain components of your diet may be a useful technique in learning about your food sensitivities.

Another dietary concern for people with Crohn's disease is poor nutrition because the digestive malabsorption and loss of appetite often associated with the disease may deprive your body of essential nutrients^1,2. Consider adding a multivitamin to your daily regimen. However, it's important to consult your doctor or dietitian before taking any supplements or making significant changes to your diet.

Plan ahead

The unpredictable nature of some symptoms, such as diarrhea, gas and abdominal pain may discourage some people with Crohn's disease from leading active lives. However, it's important to make efforts to participate in the activities you enjoyed before your diagnosis and to maintain your daily life as normally as possible.

Here are some planning tips that may help you remain active:

• Choosing familiar destinations may be a good starting point. Once you feel more comfortable, you might try less familiar places.
• Discreetly noting the location of bathrooms on or before arrival is not only practical, but it also may help minimize your stress.
• You also may find it helpful to travel with extra toilet tissue or undergarments.

Reduce stress in your life

As with diet, stress does not cause the onset of Crohn's disease, but stress still plays an important role for many Crohn's disease patients, often prompting flare-ups and aggravating symptoms².

While stress may be unavoidable, the following are some techniques that may help you manage stress levels²:

• Try progressive relaxation exercises, yoga, meditation or deep breathing.
• Exercise regularly to reduce stress levels and aid in normal bowel function. Consult your doctor before beginning any exercise regimen.
• In some instances, people with Crohn's disease may benefit from some form of psychiatric counseling. Your healthcare provider may refer you to a suitable therapist.

Create a support system

Many people are not used to or comfortable discussing their symptoms of Crohn's disease. However, communicating positively with your loved ones may reduce the emotional impact of Crohn's disease and make the adjustment easier for everyone. In addition, an honest and open relationship with your healthcare provider may help ensure you receive the best possible care.

People with Crohn's disease often find it comforting to connect with others undergoing similar experiences. Support groups may provide you with the following:

• A safe and constructive emotional outlet
• Information about the treatment options
• Practical tips and strategies to cope with the broad impact of the disease

Visit the CCFA (Crohn's & Colitis Foundation of America) website for more information on finding a support group in your area.

References:

1. Crohn's & Colitis Foundation of America (CCFA). About Crohn's disease. Available at: http://www.ccfa.org/info/about/crohns. Accessed December 6, 2006.
2. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. Crohn's disease. Available at: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/crohns-disease/DS00104. Accessed December 6, 2006.