Crohn’s Disease is an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). It is a chronic inflammatory condition that causes inflammation of the lining of the digestive tract (GI tract or gastrointestinal tract). Crohn’s Disease should not be confused with Ulcerative Colitis - also an IBD, which only affects the large intestine. Symptoms are similar, either condition can cause inflammation throughout the entire body, but the areas affected are different.
Crohn’s Disease can affect any part of the GI tract. Symptoms may include:
pain in the lower or middle section of the abdomen
excessive/severe diarrhea or loose stools
intestinal cramping
weight loss/reduced appetite
nausea/vomiting
malnutrition
fatigue/low energy
fever
a delay in growth and development (children)
Crohn’s Disease Causes
According to the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation, as many as 780,000 adults in the US have been diagnosed with Crohn’s Disease (2015). In addition:
Both males and females are affected - however, occurs a little more frequently in females. It is more common in those of European decent, with a higher occurrence in the Jewish population.
Can occur at any age but is most prevalent in the 15 - 35 year age group. People are usually diagnosed by age 30.
Clients who come to Elite Digestive and Integrative Healthcare will sit down with Dr. Allan Plumser and discuss Crohn’s Disease causes and factors, some of which may include:
Toxins, Allergies and Sensitivities
Poor Diet, Nutritional and/or Vitamin Deficiencies
Stress
Medication: Long term use of certain non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications, oral contraceptives and antibiotics.
Virus or Bacteria
Heredity: One in five people with Crohn’s Disease have a family member with IBD.
Cigarette Smoking
Location: More common in developed countries, urban areas and northern climates.
Crohn’s Treatment
As a Gastroenterologist and Functional Medicine Physician, Dr. Allan Plumser is able to combine conventional and functional medicine diagnostic tools to identify the root cause of illness. Current standard treatments include anti-inflammatory medications, antibiotics, cortisone/steroid medications, and medication to suppress the immune system (immuno-modulators and biologic treatments), all of which may be effective but carry the risk of many side effects. At times surgery is needed as well.
A Functional approach however takes in to account contributing factors, such as inflammation and immune system imbalances that must be addressed. Personalized healthcare focuses on genetics, biochemistry and the patient’s lifestyle. Dr. Plumser and his Healthcare Team do not just take care of symptoms, they treat the root cause of illness. Traditional and Functional Crohn’s treatment options must include:
Nutritional Guidance: Lauren Carey, RDN can provide dietary modifications to empower you to make healthy choices to reduce inflammation and strengthen the immune system. It’s not only what you eat, it’s the size of your meals and adding necessary supplementation.
Regular Exercise: Exercise offers enormous benefits. Kimberly LoSacco, Health Coach and Fitness Director can customize a realistic fitness program to help you reach and exceed your goals.
·Stress Management and Relaxation: Suruchi Saini, LPC, CCTP utilizes a holistic approach with evidence-based research in Psychology and Neuroscience, along with Yoga Philosophy to encourage health and wellness.
If you are ready to feel better and regain your health, please take the next step and schedule a consultation. Let our Healthcare Team focus on you… all of you. We can customize a Crohn’s Treatment program to help you heal and enjoy an active life.
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