What is the most commonly prescribed treatment for Crohn’s disease? I can’t
seem to keep my Crohn’s disease in remission. The medicine my doctor
prescribed causes side effects that I can't tolerate. Is there anything else
I can try?
Crohn’s disease is a chronic illness in which the intestines become
inflamed and ulcerated (marked with sores). Although treatments cannot cure Crohn’s
disease, they can help most people lead full, normal lives.
The goals of treatment are to correct nutritional deficiencies, control
inflammation, relieve painful symptoms, and maintain remission.
Avoiding stimulants such coffee, identifying other food triggers, and
abstaining from smoking can also help prevent symptoms from recurring.
Nutritional supplements might be ordered when adequate nutrients cannot be
absorbed by the bowel.
Crohn’s disease is primarily treated with medicines (anti-inflammatories,
immunosuppressants, antibiotics, corticosteroids, antispasmodics, and antidiarrheals).
If your medicine is causing too many uncomfortable side effects, talk with your doctor.
He or she might be able to prescribe a different medicine that might be easier for you to tolerate. Experimental therapies also might be available as part of a clinical trial. However, never discontinue
your medicine without talking with your doctor, as you could cause complications
with your condition.
Surgery is recommended when complications such as fistulas or obstructions
are present, in patients with disease that does not respond to medicines, or
for prednisone dependence.