CROHN'S DISEASE

Patient Education: Crohn’s Disease

What is Crohn’s Disease?

Crohn’s disease is a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). It causes inflammation in the digestive tract, which can lead to pain, diarrhea, and other digestive problems. It can affect any part of the digestive system, from the mouth to the anus.

Causes of Crohn’s Disease

The exact cause is unknown, but factors that may play a role include:

Immune system problems – the immune system attacks healthy cells in the digestive tract
Genetics – it can run in families
Environmental factors – diet, stress, and smoking may worsen symptoms

Signs and Symptoms

Diarrhea, sometimes with blood or mucus
Abdominal pain or cramping
Fatigue or feeling very tired
Unintended weight loss
Fever
Reduced appetite
Mouth sores
Joint pain

Note: Symptoms may come and go, with flare-ups and periods of remission.

How is Crohn’s Disease Treated?

Treatment focuses on reducing inflammation, controlling symptoms, and preventing flare-ups:

Medications: Anti-inflammatory drugs, immune system suppressors, antibiotics, or biologics
Nutrition support: Special diets or supplements if you are not getting enough nutrients
Surgery: May be needed to remove damaged sections of the intestines or treat complications

Risks of Having Crohn’s Disease

Malnutrition and vitamin deficiencies
Intestinal blockage or strictures
Ulcers or fistulas (abnormal openings in the intestines)
Increased risk of colon cancer
Infection from immune-suppressing medications

Diet and Lifestyle

Eat small, frequent meals rather than large meals
Keep a food diary to track triggers
Stay hydrated
Avoid foods that worsen symptoms, like high-fat, high-fiber, or spicy foods during flare-ups
Quit smoking and reduce stress when possible

When to Call Your Home Health Nurse or Doctor

Mild increase in diarrhea or abdominal pain
Fatigue or low appetite
Mild blood in stool or low-grade fever
Questions about medications or diet

When to Go to the Emergency Room (ER)

Severe abdominal pain or cramping
High fever
Persistent vomiting or inability to eat or drink
Heavy bleeding in stool
Signs of dehydration (very thirsty, dizzy, low urine output)

Important: Early attention to symptoms can help prevent hospitalization.

Key Points to Remember

Crohn’s disease is a chronic condition with flare-ups and remissions
Medication adherence is critical to controlling inflammation
Maintain a nutritious diet and track triggers
Call your healthcare provider early for worsening symptoms to avoid emergencies

Patient homework/assessment

True or False: Crohn’s disease is an inflammatory bowel disease that affects the digestive tract.
True or False: Crohn’s disease only affects the large intestine.
True or False: The exact cause of Crohn’s disease is unknown.
True or False: Abdominal pain and diarrhea are common symptoms of Crohn’s disease.
True or False: Crohn’s disease can lead to malnutrition or vitamin deficiencies.
True or False: Medications are used to reduce inflammation in Crohn’s disease.
True or False: Surgery is never required for Crohn’s disease.
True or False: Crohn’s disease can cause fatigue and weight loss.
True or False: Stress and smoking can worsen Crohn’s disease symptoms.
True or False: Drinking plenty of water can help manage symptoms.
True or False: Large meals are recommended during flare-ups.
True or False: You should call your doctor if you notice mild blood in your stool.
True or False: Severe abdominal pain and high fever require going to the ER.
True or False: Crohn’s disease symptoms always stay the same and never come and go.
True or False: Tracking foods can help identify triggers that worsen symptoms.
True or False: Taking prescribed medications regularly helps prevent flare-ups.
True or False: Only diet can control Crohn’s disease; medications are not needed.
True or False: Dehydration is a sign to seek emergency care.
True or False: Maintaining good nutrition can improve overall health in Crohn’s disease.
True or False: Crohn’s disease can increase the risk of colon cancer.

ASSESSMENT of WELL-BEING INDIVIDUALIZED PATIENT HOMEWORK

Symptom Identification: Have you noticed any changes in your bowel habits, such as increased diarrhea, abdominal pain, or blood in your stool, and how often do they occur?
Activity Impact / Safety: How have your Crohn’s disease symptoms affected your ability to perform daily activities like eating, working, or walking, and have you experienced any safety concerns like dizziness or dehydration?
Treatment Adherence: Are you taking your prescribed medications consistently, including anti-inflammatory or immune-suppressing medications, and have you noticed any improvement in your symptoms?
Preventive Measures: What steps are you taking to prevent flare-ups, such as following a special diet, avoiding trigger foods, staying hydrated, or reducing stress, and how effective are these measures?