Any type of chronic disorder may be especially difficult for a
child to cope with. Likewise, being a parent to such a child may
leave you feeling helpless and cheated. Unfortunately, the
presence of Crohn's Disease will not be any easier to bear or
deal with, as it has particularly unpleasant side effects.
Crohn's Disease is a form of Inflammatory Bowel Disease which
occurs when the immune system overreacts to an agent of the
digestive system, sends excessive white blood cells to the area,
and causes inflammation as a result. The exact cause of Crohn's
Disease is unknown, but doctors believe it is because the body
misperceives positive bacteria naturally found in the intestines
as being harmful. However, once the reaction occurs, the immune
system is unable to stop the attack on the digestive tract.
Any area of the digestive system may be affected by Crohn's
disease, from mouth to rectum; however, the area most affected
is the lower portion of the small intestines and colon.
Depending on which portion of the system is disease, different
symptoms may arise. Some examples of symptoms include diarrhea,
abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, loss of appetite, and vomiting.
Also, as a result of many of these symptoms, certain side
effects occur, such as anemia, weight loss, stunted growth, and
delayed development.
There may also be complication in areas outside of the digestive
system, such as arthritis, skin rashes, mouth ulcers, or eye
inflammation.
Although Crohn's is a chronic disease, meaning it is ongoing, it
does have periods of inactivity. During these periods, no
symptoms may occur. However, they will inevitably return at some
point. There is currently no cure for Crohn's Disease.
Treatments for Crohn's Disease include medications and surgery
in severe cases. Medications are usually taken to decrease
swelling in the bowels, control the reaction of the immune
system, treat infection that may arise, or to treat the symptoms
of Crohn's. Surgery is usually only utilized when other
treatment methods are ineffective. Unfortunately, many of the
medications taken cause a myriad of side effects, many very
severe in nature. However, often medication is necessary in
spite of side effects to eliminate potentially life threatening
issues, such as infection.
It is important to maintain a healthy diet and to intake plenty
of fluids. Malnutrition sometimes occurs from lack of absorption
of foods. Likewise, dehydration is a concern due to diarrhea and
vomiting.
Your child will also more than likely experience a lot of
emotional issues as a result of this disease.
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