Treatment Overview

There is a range of prescription medications available today to help manage Crohn's disease (CD), and researchers continue to develop promising new Crohn's disease treatment options. Nutritional therapy is also an important aspect of treatment.

The purpose of Crohn's disease treatment

Treatment for Crohn's Disease is prescribed to reduce inflammation and promote healing of the intestinal lining (mucosa). This does two things: it allows the intestinal tissue to heal, and it helps relieve symptoms of fever, diarrhea and abdominal pain. Once Crohn's disease symptoms are brought under control (this is known as inducing remission), medical therapy is used to decrease the frequency of disease flare-ups (this is known as maintaining remission, or maintenance therapy).

Overall Crohn's disease treatment goals

• Achieve and maintain symptom remission
• Healing of the mucosa (the lining of the intestine)
• Restore and maintain nutritional health
• Reduce or eliminate the need for surgery
• Improve quality of life (prevent future flare-ups)

Crohn's disease diet and nutrition

Healthy eating plays a major role in the treatment of Crohn's disease. You should try to eat appropriate foods. Not only are some foods gentler on an inflamed intestine, but the wrong diet may lead to weight loss and more symptoms. Your doctor and healthcare team can help guide you when it comes to your diet.

• It's important to maintain a balanced diet with the recommended intake of sugars, proteins and fat.
• Dietary fibre may be used to help reduce or prevent diarrhea.
• You can reduce gas and bloating by staying away from certain foods (e.g., cabbage, beans, milk products). Also it may help to eat slowly and avoid taking in air through your mouth when you eat.

During a flare-up or if your symptoms become more severe, you may need to change your diet slightly by eating certain foods while avoiding others. You may also be advised to take nutritional supplements.

The importance of a positive attitude

Crohn's disease is a chronic illness, but it is not fatal. Most people with CD can continue to lead happy, productive lives. People living with Crohn's may need to take medications continually and may even be hospitalized from time to time, but between flare-ups, many will feel generally well and remain relatively free of symptoms.

Each of us is different. But when it comes to Crohn's disease, one thing's for sure—you do have options! Be positive. Work together with your specialist to find the treatment that works best for you.

Helpful Crohn's treatment tips

Aside from medical treatment you can do quite a few small things yourself to make living with Crohn's easier. Individual results may vary.

• Plan your mealtime so you will not feel rushed or have to run off to an appointment as soon as you finish eating.
• Avoid skipping snacks or meals.
• Plan your car trips along routes that have more restaurants, gas stations and rest areas where you can stop.
• Always carry any medicine your gastroenterologist recommends, especially antidiarrheal medication.
• Put aside some time in your day to just relax.

If you are experiencing symptoms or have been diagnosed with Crohn's disease (CD) you may find it helpful to complete the CD Self-Assessment Discussion Guide.