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Crohn's Diseases

Definition-​ Crohn's disease is a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that causes swelling/inflammation and irritation of the tissues inside the lining of the digestive tract.

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The inflamed areas of the digestive tract can be anywhere along the path of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract from the mouth to the anus all in one area or in segments. All people are affected differently. Crohn's most commonly affects the end of the small intestine and the beginning of the large intestine. The inflammation often spreads into the deeper layers of the bowel.

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This may lead to serious or life-threatening complications such as bleeding ulcers and malnutrition, blood clots, colon cancer, and bowel obstruction.

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Possible causes include genetics and immune system dysfunction.

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Functional medicine therapies can greatly reduce inflammation and symptoms, maybe even bringing about long-term remission. Collaboration with a GI specialist for direct visualization with a scope and testing of tissues samples is still important.  Coordinating treatments and weaning some traditional medications under supervision may be possible.

Symptoms

  • Diarrhea

  • Fever

  • Fatigue

  • Belly pain and cramping

  • Blood in the stool

  • Mouth sores

  • Reduced appetite and weight loss

  • Pain or drainage near or around the anus due to inflammation from a tunnel into the skin, called a fistula.

  • Symptoms can range from mild to severe. They can develop gradually or might come on suddenly, without warning. Someone with Crohn's disease also may have periods of time with no symptoms. This is known as remission.

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Other symptoms associated with Crohn’s disease-

  • Inflammation of skin, eyes and joints.

  • Inflammation of the liver or bile ducts.

  • Kidney stones.

  • Iron deficiency, called anemia.

  • Delayed growth or sexual development, in children.

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Functional Medicine Approach

  • You will have a full assessment of your current lifestyle, nutrition, stress level and management, and sleep health and hygiene.

  • Individualized plans of care will be created by the practitioner and patient. 

  • Depending on your specific symptoms, there may be more targeted assessment and testing of blood sugar metabolism, thyroid function, pituitary. or hypothalamus function and cardiovascular assessment, gut imbalances, food intolerances, toxin screening, hormone imbalance, antibody intolerances, inflammatory markers, and/or deficiencies of nutrients.  

  • After finding the root cause of illness, plans may be revised.  Solutions can be multi-layered and take time, especially auto-immune disease and hormone imbalance.  We may need to integrate care with a specialist after referral.

  • Detox plans are gentle and supervised if necessary.​​

Traditional Medication Risks vs Functional Medicine

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Certain Crohn's disease medicines that block functions of the immune system are associated with a small risk of developing cancers, including lymphoma and skin cancers. They also increase the risk of infections. Corticosteroids can be associated with a risk of osteoporosis, bone fractures, cataracts, glaucoma, diabetes and high blood pressure, among other conditions. Work with a healthcare professional to determine risks and benefits of medicines.

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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/crohns-disease/symptoms- causes/syc-20353304

Crohn's disease - Symptoms and causes - Mayo Clinic

Functional Medicine uses evidence-based medicinal grade supplements in most cases to treat imbalances that cause inflammation. One goal is to wean off or at least decrease dosage of harmful traditional medications when possible.

 

I have Ulcerative Colitis, a similar disease. After treatment of my gut imbalances, I am off all medications and have little to no symptoms. Every case is different. My hope is that we can work to get you relief of your painful symptoms so that you can have more energy and enjoy your life!

Goals of Treatment

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Results vary and depend on the stage of your disease process and your commitment to treatment.

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  • Decreased diarrhea and bathroom emergencies

  • Decreased anxiety about outings and travel

  • Decreased abdominal pain

  • Decreased mouth sores

  • Decreased joint pain

  • Decreased visits to the doctor’s office

  • Decreased money spent on medication

  • Return to normal weight

  • Increased ability to eat a variety of foods

  • Increased energy for friends, family, and activities

  • Increased suppleness of hair, skin, and nails

 

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Commitment to treatment will improve outcomes.

We will support you every step of the way!

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