How to manage Crohn's disease: Tips and when to seek help
There is no cure for Crohn’s disease. However, a person may be able to manage the symptoms and reduce the frequency of flares with strategies such as dietary changes, stress management, and lifestyle modifications.
Crohn’s disease is a chronic inflammatory bowel disorder (IBD) that causes gut inflammation. Symptoms range from mild to severe, and can include abdominal pain, digestive issues, and fatigue.
Treatment for Crohn’s disease typically involves medication and surgery. A combination of medical treatment and home management may help prevent flares, relieve symptoms, and reduce the risk of certain complications.
This article looks at ways to manage Crohn’s disease and when to speak with a doctor.
Research from 2021 suggests that diet may play a role in reducing inflammation and symptom flares associated with Crohn’s disease. However, further research is necessary.
A dietitian may be able to help create a diet plan that balances nutrition and gut sensitivities.
Crohn’s disease does not affect everyone in the same way, and certain foods may trigger flares for some individuals. A person may want to keep a food journal to help them identify their triggers.
According to the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation, the following dietary changes may be beneficial.
It may also be helpful to eat several small meals throughout the day rather than three larger meals.
The gut-brain axis is a communication system between the gut and the brain. It involves complex interactions between various systems and functions of the two, including the gut microbiota, the immune system, neural pathways, and neurotransmitters.
Imbalances in the gut may affect mental well-being, while the brain may influence gut health.
Research from 2022 suggests that chronic stress may advance the progression of IBD, which includes Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. However, more research is necessary to understand the underlying mechanisms between psychological disorders and IBD.
Stress management and mental health treatment may help improve Crohn’s disease symptoms and decrease inflammation. This may involve:
Various OTC medications may help reduce some of the digestive symptoms of Crohn’s disease, such as diarrhea, gas, pain and discomfort, and bloating. These include:
Healthcare professionals
Individuals with Crohn’s disease should avoid taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which can worsen symptoms.
Research suggests that some natural remedies may help treat the symptoms of Crohn’s disease. However, more clinical evidence is necessary to support these claims.
A person should first discuss the use of supplements or nonmedical remedies with a doctor. Some supplements may interact with medications or cause side effects.
A person should speak with a doctor before using OTC medications or natural remedies, and should not make drastic changes to their diet before first discussing them with a healthcare professional.
At-home management strategies for Crohn’s disease may be helpful in combination with medical treatment, but they should not replace the therapies a doctor has recommended.
If a person develops new or worsening symptoms of Crohn’s disease, or their symptoms do not improve with treatment, they should speak with a healthcare professional.
There is no cure for Crohn’s disease, but treatment and management strategies can help improve the symptoms and promote remission.
Management strategies for Crohn’s disease include dietary adjustments, lifestyle approaches, stress reduction, and OTC and natural remedies.
Individuals should discuss Crohn’s disease management strategies they are considering with their doctor to ensure that they are safe and will not interfere with their current treatment.