Attention, chocolate lovers: You may not be able to help yourselves. Swiss and British scientists have linked the widespread love of chocolate to a chemical "signature" that may be programmed into our metabolic systems.
Read more health news
Crohn's Disease
- Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
- Symptoms & Signs
- Diagnosis & Tests
- Prevention & Expectations
- Treatment & Monitoring
- Attribution
- View All
Treatment & Monitoring
What are the treatments for the disease?
Medications used to treat Crohn's disease include the following:
Some persons need extra vitamins, minerals, and salts. A healthy diet is essential for maintaining body weight. A soft, bland diet may be better tolerated than a diet with spicy foods. Milk products may be restricted if the person has lactose intolerance. In severe cases, a person may need to be fed through an intravenous tube to improve his or her nutritional status.
Seventy percent of the people with Crohn's disease will have surgery at least once. A recent study showed that the surgery significantly improves the quality of life in individuals with Crohn's disease. Surgery may be done for one or more of the following effects of the disorder:
What are the side effects of the treatments?
Many of the medications used to treat Crohn's disease can cause stomach upset, allergic reactions, and an increased susceptibility to infection. Persons taking metronidazole may have severe vomiting and abdominal pain if they drink alcohol. Surgery may cause bleeding, infection, or allergic reaction to anesthesia.
What happens after treatment for the disease?
Crohn's disease is a long-term disease with occasional flare-ups. There can be periods without any symptoms. However, the symptoms usually reappear.
How is the disease monitored?
There is no specific test for monitoring Crohn's disease. Affected persons need to monitor their symptoms carefully. Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the healthcare provider.