Crohn’s disease is a chronic gastrointestinal disorder that can significantly impact your quality of life if not properly managed. The board-certified gastroenterologists at Capitol Gastro, with offices in Austin, Cedar Park, Georgetown, and Dripping Springs, Texas, provide advanced care for Crohn’s disease and can help you manage your symptoms so you can live a full and happy life without discomfort. For a consultation, call the office nearest you today or request an appointment online.
Crohn’s disease is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that causes inflammation of the deep tissue in your digestive tract. This inflammation may lead to severe abdominal pain, as well as affect your ability to absorb nutrients from the food you eat. Crohn’s disease can affect your small or large intestines.
Researchers aren’t certain of the exact cause of Crohn’s disease but theorize that your genetics and immune system may play a role in its development.
Symptoms of Crohn’s disease can vary and may only occur during a flare-up. Common symptoms of Crohn’s disease include:
You may also develop sores in your mouth with Crohn’s disease, and it can cause inflammation of your skin or joints, as well as your liver or bile ducts.
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, you should contact the team at Capitol Gastro for an evaluation and treatment plan.
There’s no single test to diagnose Crohn’s disease, and your specialist at Capitol Gastro may need to rule out other causes of your symptoms before you can be definitively diagnosed with the inflammatory bowel condition. Your evaluation may include:
Your specialist may also recommend a colonoscopy or capsule endoscopy to get a better look at your digestive system to identify areas of inflammation.
There’s no one best treatment for the management of Crohn’s disease, but the experienced team at Capitol Gastro works closely with you to devise a plan that helps you manage your symptoms and reduce risks of a flare-up. Your treatment plan may include:
Your specialist may also suggest you make modifications to your diet and avoid foods that may irritate your digestive system, such as dairy and fatty foods, depending on the site of your inflammation.
Crohn’s disease is a chronic health condition, but with the right treatment, you can significantly minimize flare-ups. For expert care of your inflammatory bowel disease, call Capitol Gastro today or request an appointment online.