Crohn’s Disease Treatment in Indore

Crohn’s Disease is a chronic autoimmune and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that causes long-term inflammation anywhere in the digestive tract, from the mouth to the anus.

It most commonly affects:

The termination of the small intestine

The start of the large intestine

Crohn’s Disease is lifelong, with periods of flare-ups and remission. It can affect bowel walls deeply, leading to complications.

How Crohn’s Disease Occurs (Mechanism)

Crohn’s is caused by the immune system mistakenly attacking parts of the digestive tract. This leads to:

Chronic inflammation

Swelling and ulceration

Thickening of bowel walls

Nutrient malabsorption

The exact reason for this reaction by the immune system is yet to be fully elucidated.

Causes & Risk Factors

1. Immune System Dysfunction

The immune system overreacts to normal gut bacteria, causing inflammation.

2. Genetic Factors

More common if a family member has:

Crohn’s

Ulcerative colitis

Other autoimmune conditions

Specific genes are implicated mainly: NOD2-ATG16L1.

3. Environmental Factors

Tobacco smoking is the strongest known risk factor

High-fat processed diet

Urban lifestyle

Stressors (promote flares)

4. Gut Microbiota Imbalance

Abnormal intestinal bacteria may provoke inflammation.

Symptoms of Crohn’s Disease

Symptoms depend on the area affected and the severity.

Digestive Symptoms

Chronic diarrhea

Abdominal pain and cramping

Bloating

Blood or mucus in the stool

Urgency to the stool

Unintentional weight loss

Poor appetite

Mouth sores

Systemic Symptoms

Fatigue

Temperature

Nutritional deficiencies: iron, B12, D, calcium

Symptoms Outside the Gut

Crohn's can also affect:

Joints → arthritis

Eyes → uveitis

Skin → rashes, ulcers

The liver -inflammation

Complications (If Not Treated)

Fistulas (abnormal tunnels between organs)

Narrowing of the intestines-strictures

Abscesses

Severe malnutrition

Growth disorders in children

Long-term colon cancer

Diagnosis

1. Blood Tests

Inflammatory markers: ESR, CRP

Anemia

Vitamin deficiencies

2. Stool Tests

Calprotectin finds gut inflammation.

Rule out infections

3. Endoscopy & Colonoscopy-useful (gold standard)

Allows for direct visualisation and biopsy.

4. Imaging

Computed Tomography-Scan

MRI enterography

Ultrasound: for children or pregnancy

Conventional Medical Treatment

Crohn’s treatment aims to reduce inflammation, heal the gut, and prevent complications.

1. Medications

a. Anti-inflammatory drugs

5-ASA (limited use in Crohn’s)

b. Steroids

Used short-term to control flare-ups.

c. Immunomodulators

To reduce the overactivity of the immune system:

Azathioprine

6-Mercaptopurine

Methotrexate

d. Advanced treatment: Biologic therapies

Highly effective:

Anti-TNF (Infliximab, Adalimumab)

Anti-integrin

anti-IL-12/23

e. Antibiotics

For abscesses and other complications.

2. Surgery (Where Necessary)

Used for:

Blockages

Severe fistulae

Non-healing ulcers

Surgery does not cure Crohn's but helps manage a severe disease.

Diet & Nutrition in Crohn’s Disease

Very important for symptom control.

Foods That Often Help

Low-fibre foods during flares

Easily digestible foods

Rice, bananas, boiled vegetables

Lean proteins

Probiotics in some cases

Foods to Limit During Flare-Ups

Spicy food

Caffeine

Dairy (if lactose intolerant)

Nuts, seeds may irritate

Fatty foods

Carbonated drinks

Common Deficiencies

Patients may require supplementation:

Iron

Vitamin D

Vitamin B12

Calcium

Zinc

(As instructed by a doctor)

Lifestyle, Holistic & Supportive Care

Supportive measures are useful, not a substitute for medical intervention.

1. Yoga & Stress Management

Stress exacerbates inflammation.

Helpful practices:

Deep breathing

Meditation

Gentle yoga - improves digestion & immunity

Relaxation exercises

2. Anti-Inflammatory Diet

Omega-3 rich foods: flaxseed, walnuts

Turmeric

Leafy greens

Gluten-free foods, for those sensitive to

3. Homeopathy / Ayurveda / Integrative Medicine

These may contribute to:

Flatulence

Stress & anxiety

Sleep

General digestive comfort

They cannot replace medical therapy, but can support overall stability.

4. Good Gut Practices

Regular timing of meals

Adequate hydration

Avoid smoking completely

Adequate sleep

Prognosis: Crohn’s is a lifelong condition, but with early diagnosis, proper medications, diet management, and supportive care, Many patients lead active, normal lives. Flare-ups can be minimised. Gut damage can be reduced. Complications can often be prevented. Modern treatments, especially biologics, have significantly improved outcomes.