How Crohn’s Disease Affects the Stomach and Perineal Area

How Crohn’s disease affects the stomach and perineal area can vary from person to person. Many people experience little to no symptoms throughout their life, while others can suffer from severe symptoms that linger. This blog post will discuss Crohn’s disease, how it can affect the stomach and the perineal areas, and the associated symptoms.

What is Crohn’s Disease?

Crohn’s disease is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease affecting any part of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, from the mouth to the anus. This disease can worsen over time, so devising an early treatment plan with a qualified healthcare professional is essential. According to the National Institute of Health, more than five hundred thousand people in the United States alone live with Crohn’s disease. Although this disease’s exact cause is unknown, some research has shown that genetics, the environment, and a compromised immune system can be contributing factors. While it most commonly affects the small intestine and the colon, Crohn’s disease can also impact other areas, including the stomach and perineal region.

Crohn’s Disease and the Stomach

Although Crohn’s disease primarily affects the small intestine and colon, it can sometimes involve the stomach. The inflammation in the stomach can cause a variety of symptoms, such as:

Nausea and Vomiting

Inflammation causes swelling in the digestive tract and the stomach lining, leading to nausea and occasional vomiting.

Loss of Appetite

The stomach discomfort caused by Crohn’s disease can reduce appetite, leading to weight loss and malnutrition.

Upper Abdominal Pain

Inflammation in the digestive tract and stomach may cause pain and discomfort in the upper abdomen.

Gastroparesis

In some instances, Crohn’s disease can affect the normal movement of the stomach muscles, resulting in gastroparesis, which is delayed emptying of the stomach contents. This can cause bloating and early satiety (feeling full) and aggravate nausea and vomiting.

It is essential for individuals with Crohn’s disease experiencing stomach-related symptoms to consult with their healthcare provider for appropriate diagnosis and management strategies. How Crohn’s disease affects the stomach and the perineal should be taken seriously and only managed by professional and qualified doctors.

Crohn’s Disease and the Perineal Area

The perineal area is the region between the anus and genitals. Crohn’s disease can impact this area in various ways, leading to symptoms such as:

Perianal Fistulas

Fistulas are abnormal connections that form between different parts of the intestine or between the intestine and nearby organs. In Crohn’s disease, perianal fistulas can develop around the anus, causing pain, drainage of pus, and discomfort during bowel movements.

Abscesses

Inflammation can lead to the formation of abscesses, which are localized pockets of pus. Abscesses can cause pain, swelling, and redness in the perineal area. Keeping this area clean with gentle cleaners can help prevent any further irritation or infection.

Skin Tags and Fissures

Chronic inflammation may result in skin tags (small, soft flaps of skin) and fissures (painful cracks or ulcers) in the perineal region.

Managing perineal symptoms in Crohn’s disease often requires involvement from doctors of different disciplines, such as gastroenterologists, colorectal surgeons, and wound care specialists. Treatment options may include medications, surgical intervention, and lifestyle modifications. How Crohn’s disease affects the stomach and the perineal must be taken seriously and should only be treated and managed by qualified healthcare professionals.

Summing it Up

How Crohn’s disease affects the stomach and the perineal area varies from person to person. While Crohn’s disease primarily affects the gastrointestinal tract, its impact can extend beyond the small intestine and colon. In some cases, the stomach and perineal area can also be affected, leading to specific symptoms that can significantly impact a person’s quality of life. Recognizing these symptoms and seeking appropriate medical care is crucial for effective management and improved well-being for individuals with Crohn’s disease. If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these symptoms, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional for a comprehensive evaluation and tailored treatment plan.

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Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog on how Crohn’s disease affects the stomach and perineal area is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

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Crohn’s Disease: 10 Essentials to Keep in Your Medicine Cabinet

Crohn’s disease is a chronic digestive disorder that affects the gastrointestinal tract (GI). According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), it causes inflammation and damage in the digestive tract. Crohn’s disease belongs to a group of conditions called inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD).

There’s currently no cure for Crohn’s disease, but various treatments can help manage its symptoms. If you have Crohn’s disease, it’s also a good idea to keep several over-the-counter (OTC) medicines and supplies on hand in case of an emergency.

The 10 Essentials to Help Manage Crohn's Disease

We suggest keeping these ten essential non-prescription supplies at home to ease your symptoms and lessen the effects of a flare-up from Crohn’s disease.

1. Antidiarrheal medications

A common symptom of IBD is diarrhea, and it can become worse during a flare. Antidiarrheal medications may be able to help. There are many choices at your local pharmacy that do not require a prescription. Those may include:

  • Pepto-Bismol
  • Kaopectate
  • Imodium-ID

It is always important to speak to your doctor before taking any new OTC medication or supplement and thoroughly read and follow the dosing directions.

2. Pain relievers

GeriCare liquid pain reliefThose with Crohn’s disease often experience stomach pain as a flare symptom. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory pain relievers (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen can help control inflammation associated with IBD. Research has linked NSAIDs to increased relapses, flares, and overall disease activity.

A better option might be using acetaminophens such as Tylenol or Geri-Care Liquid Pain Relief. These options will not help with inflammation but will reduce fever and pain. As always, talk to your doctor about the right pain reliever for you.

3. Ointment for skin irritation

Balmex Diaper Rash OintmentCrohn’s flares can irritate the skin around the anus. Using a skin protectant, such as Balmex Diaper Rash Treatment, can protect against wetness and irritants, helping prevent diaper rash from getting worse.

4. Personal care wipes

You may experience perineal complications with Crohn’s disease, such as a fistula or abscess. Making sure to keep good hygiene could greatly help ease your symptoms. By using a perineal cleansing product such as DermaRite PeriFresh No-Rinse Perineal Cleanser and unscented wipes to clean and soothe irritated areas, your skin will thank you.

5. A thermometer

You may start to run a fever during a Crohn’s flare. Keeping a thermometer on hand is helpful so you can keep track of your Crohn’s disease symptoms for your next doctor appointment. Writing down the date, time, and length of your elevated temperature can help your doctor better understand your symptoms.

6. An electrolyte solution

Sqwincher Electrolyte Replenishment DrinkIf you are experiencing diarrhea as a symptom of your Crohn’s disease, you are likely losing sodium and sugar, which help you stay hydrated. During a Crohn’s flare, watery diarrhea can cause dehydration symptoms such as thirst, urinating less frequently, darker urine than usual, dry mouth, headaches, and fatigue.

Your doctor may recommend an OTC oral rehydration solution such as Pedialyte or Sqwincher products. These oral supplements help replenish vital minerals and nutrients lost during diarrhea and aid in rehydration. The key electrolytes (sodium and potassium) promote fluid absorption and help keep the body’s defense immune system optimally performing.

7. Nutritional supplements

Stocking up on bottles of nutritional supplements can help make sure you are getting adequate calories and nutrition. Since some foods may contribute to your Crohn’s disease symptoms, these dietary supplements can aid in delivering the proper nutrients as you manage your flare.

Ensure Original Strawberry flavored therapeutic nutritional shakeThere are plenty of flavorful supplements on the market today, so getting the right balance doesn’t have to taste bland. Some of the delicious varieties include:

8. Epsom salt

During a Crohn’s flare, anal fistulas and fissures can occur and cause painful bowel movements and soreness. Warm bath water with Epsom salt can help relieve the pain, itching, and muscle spasms. The water’s warmth may help ease the discomfort on the rear, and the Epsom salt can help soothe sore muscles and reduce inflammation.

9. Heating pads

Arthritis or pain and swelling of the joints are common complaints from those with Crohn’s disease. Heating pads deliver moist heat that can help relieve joint discomfort and help abdominal pain and cramping. These are low-risk solutions that might provide some needed comfort.

10. Vitamin supplements

With IBD, chronic intestinal bleeding leads to anemia, a lack of healthy red blood cells that carry oxygen to body tissue. Doctors often prescribe an iron supplement to address this condition. Blood loss from ulcers might be another reason an iron supplement may be recommended.

According to a 2019 study, Crohn’s disease and the steroids used to treat the condition have been linked to an increased risk for osteoporosis, a weakening of the bones. Your doctor may recommend taking calcium and a vitamin D supplement. Vitamin D helps your body absorb calcium to keep your bones healthy and prevent further problems.

Crohn’s disease can come with a wide array of complications and discomforts. Hopefully, some of these suggestions we have provided can help reduce your symptoms, ease your pain, lengthen your remission, and help you love an enjoyable life.

For any questions about the products, we carry at Personally Delivered that may help you get through your Crohn’s flare, our knowledgeable and caring Product Experts are just a phone call away and ready to assist.

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