Medical Titbit: Crohn's Disease - A non-curable condition!
There are two common forms of IBD (inflammatory bowel disease): UC and Crohn’s disease. Both are autoimmune conditions (where the body's immune system attacks its tissues). Unfortunately, both are life-long diseases without a complete cure. Where UC (ulcerative colitis) only involves the large intestine (colon), Crohn’s disease can affect any part of the digestive tract (from the esophagus to the anas). It’s quite a common problem. Around 6-8 million people around the globe suffer from it! Today, we will learn about some of the features of Crohn’s disease. At the end of the post, you will find a YouTube video from the Cleveland Clinic talking about this condition.
Right lower abdominal pain or central abdominal pain. Usually, cramp-like pain.
Frequent loose stools for a long time, e.g., over 4 months, lead to dehydration and fatigue. Sometimes, the stool may be bloody if the disease involves the terminal part of the digestive tract.
Significant weight loss (over 10 pounds or 5% of body weight loss in a short period) without effort. Lack of appetite and/or chronic inflammation lead to weight loss!
Ulcers on the lips, tongue, gum, and oral cavity are common. Chronic inflammation, lack of vitamins, minerals, and iron may lead to ulcers
Chronic fatigue, often in extreme form, despite proper rest. Nutritional deficiency, depression, and chronic inflammation lead to fatigue.
Watch the video to learn more about Crohn’s disease!
Thanking you
Dr Hafiz