Recurrent attacks of inflammation of the gastrointestinal system, causing pain, fever, diarrhea and weight loss. In between attacks, the inflamed tissue heals, leaving scars, which can obstruct the intestine and reduce nutrient absorption. Inflammation may also occur in the eyes and joints, and the skin may be affected by eczema.

Treatment

To be carried out in consultation with a professional.

Dietary

Many find that Crohn’s disease, like colitis, can be relieved by eliminating foods which produce an allergic reaction. The most common ones are dairy produce and grains (wheat, oats, barley, rye and corn). Try eliminating these foods for at least 2 weeks to see if symptoms improve. Crohn’s disease is often accompanied by deficiency in the following nutrients: vitamin A (found in liver, kidney, egg yolk, butter, whole milk cheese, and cod liver oil); beta-carotene (found in dark green, orange and yellow fruits and vegetables), vitamin D (obtained through exposure of the skin to sunlight, and eating fortified milk, egg yolk, cod liver oil and fish). Take a vitamin B complex supplement once daily.

Aromatherapy

Essential oil lavender has been shown to induce relaxation and relieve stress. Use it in steam inhalations, a diffuser, a bath, or sprinkled on a handkerchief. Compresses placed on the abdomen, using water with a few drops of Roman and German chamomile, are also useful.

Stress Relief

Crohn’s disease is made worse by stress. Learning yoga or meditation can help you to counteract stress. Hypnotherapy, autogenic training and biofeedback can also help. Regular massage and exercise is also benefical.

Orthodox

Sulphasalazine, a combination of anti-inflammatory agents, may be given to relieve the inflammation. It sometimes causes nausea, headaches and abdominal pain. Corticosteroid drugs are also used to reduce inflammation. Side effects may be swelling, high blood pressure, diabetes, or peptic ulcer.