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Let's talk about Crohn's Disease

If you have just been diagnosed with this disease, you probably have many doubts, that's why we offer you crucial information to help you face the new challenges while living with this condition. Here are the most common concerns that you should be aware of:



What is Crohn's disease?

Crohn's disease is a chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, meaning that it can affect from the mouth to the colon or anus; an imbalance occurs in the immune system that produces inflammation of the tissues, which limits the intestine's ability to process food and eliminate waste.


What are the symptoms of Crohn's disease?

Most patients experience abdominal pain, frequent diarrhea and weight loss, fever, the presence of blood in the feces, nausea, and vomiting.


How do I know if I have an outbreak or if I am in remission?

In the outbreak, the disease is most active, and the symptoms are at their worst. During remission, symptoms subside for a period of time (weeks, months, or years).

At what age does Crohn's disease occur?

Crohn's disease can develop at any age, it is most common between the ages of 15 and 30.

How is Crohn's disease diagnosed?

The gastroenterologist performs a series of tests such as physical examination, stool analysis, anti-Saccharomyces cerevisiae antibodies (ASCA), abdominal x-ray, endoscopy, colonoscopy, biopsy, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging.



Can I eat all kinds of food?

There are controversial opinions about the use of some foods such as fiber, nevertheless, it is important to replenish the nutrients lost due to diarrhea and lack of appetite, therefore, foods rich in fiber act to improve the balance of intestinal microflora. In addition, people diagnosed with this disease should avoid processed foods and follow a diet rich in vegetables, fruits, healthy fats, fish, and eggs.


Does it have a cure?

Currently, there is no treatment that definitively cures the disease; however, there are drugs on the market that control the symptoms and help maintain stability in the patient.


Can I have a normal life?

This disease is complex, it is important to adapt to the chronicity and understand that at any time the symptoms can worsen, but when it is well controlled, you can have almost a normal life.


Although there is no cure, all is not lost, thanks to the evolution of medicine we have therapeutic alternatives for the benefit of patients, so Alpha Research Institute in the search for new treatments is conducting a clinical study for this disease. If you have been diagnosed with Crohn's disease, we invite you to participate as a volunteer donating blood samples.



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