Crohn’s Disease Treatment in Rochester, NY

Crohn’s Disease is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects the gastrointestinal tract. It is not confined to a specific area and can impact any part of the GI tract, from the mouth to the colon. The disease most commonly affects the ileum, which is the end of the small bowel, and the beginning of the colon.

This condition primarily affects individuals between the ages of 15 and 35, with an estimated 700,000 people in the U.S. living with Crohn’s Disease. This represents approximately 50% of all inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) cases. If you have been diagnosed with Crohn’s Disease or would like to speak with our colorectal surgeons, please reach out to Rochester Colon & Rectal Surgeons. To book an appointment at one of our six colorectal surgery centers in Western New York, call (585) 222-6566.

What Causes Crohn’s Disease?

The exact cause of Crohn’s Disease is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to a combination of genetic factors and environmental triggers. Diet and stress can exacerbate the condition, but they are not the root cause.

According to the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of America, “Crohn’s tends to run in families, so if you or a close relative have the disease, your family members have a significantly increased chance of developing Crohn’s. Studies have shown that 5% to 20% of affected individuals have a first-degree relative (parents, child, or sibling) with one of the diseases.”

In a healthy GI tract, bacteria aid in digestion without causing harm. However, in individuals with IBD and Crohn’s Disease, the immune system reacts to these bacteria, causing inflammation.

What Are the Symptoms of Crohn’s Disease?

The symptoms of Crohn’s Disease can include:

• Abdominal cramps
• Urgent bowel movements
• Persistent diarrhea
• Rectal bleeding

Other common symptoms include fever, fatigue, weight loss, loss of appetite, and night sweats. Some people with Crohn’s Disease may have few symptoms, but they can be triggered by specific foods.

How is Crohn’s Disease Treated?

Treatment options for Crohn’s Disease include:

Medication: The primary immediate treatment for Crohn’s Disease is medication, which aims to suppress the condition. While medication cannot cure Crohn’s Disease, it can help manage symptoms and allow the GI tract tissue to heal from any damage.
Nutrition: Dietary changes can help control flare-ups and triggers. Patients are advised on which foods to avoid and which to include in their diet.
Surgery: Surgery may be necessary if medication and dietary changes cannot control flare-ups. Almost 70% of individuals with Crohn’s Disease require surgery at some point in their lives. This is often because Crohn’s Disease can lead to complications such as fissures, fistulas, or intestinal obstructions. In some cases, a portion of the affected area may need to be removed (resection).