Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis can disrupt your plans and wreak havoc with your peace of mind, but treatments are available to put you back in control. Those in and around Flint, Michigan, with abdominal pain or other symptoms can rely on board-certified gastroenterologist Mustafa Alnounou, MD, FACP, FACG, of Digestive Health Clinic to reduce the inflammation and relieve their symptoms. When you’re ready to pursue solutions for your Crohn’s or colitis, call the Digestive Health Clinic office or book your consultation online.
Both Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis are inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs), but Crohn’s disease is more generally located: You can experience inflammation from Crohn’s disease anywhere along your gastrointestinal tract.
By contrast, ulcerative colitis causes ulceration and inflammation in your large intestine specifically. This includes your colon and rectum. It also causes your colon to be consistently inflamed, while Crohn’s disease flares intermittently.
You might have an IBD if you struggle with:
Some symptoms are unique to Crohn’s or ulcerative colitis. For example, you may be more likely to notice blood in your stool if you have ulcerative colitis, while Crohn’s disease can cause mouth sores, anal tears, and intestine infections.
Dr. Alnounou aims to first reduce your inflammation to treat either disease. He will thoroughly evaluate your condition and personalize a treatment plan to handle the inflammation, manage your symptoms, and prevent flare-ups.
Your specific plan takes into consideration your condition, its severity, and your symptoms. Standard treatment includes:
There are several categories of medications that might ease your symptoms and address your condition, such as anti-inflammatory medications, immune system suppressors, and biologics. You may also benefit from anti-diarrheal medications, iron supplements, and pain relievers. Dr. Alnounou will work with you to find the best medication to meet your needs.
It’s important to eat a balanced diet rich in nutrients to help prevent flare-ups and stay healthy. Avoid hard-to-digest foods, high-lactose foods, alcohol, caffeine, or spicy foods.
You are likely to feel better if you increase your intake of fruits, vegetables, and foods with plenty of omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon.
Along with a healthy diet, you can complement your treatment by getting regular exercise, quitting smoking, and managing your stress levels.
Dr. Alnounou focuses on nonsurgical treatments first, but if needed, surgery can be effective in treating Crohn’s and colitis.
If Crohn’s and colitis are impacting your quality of life, it’s time to seek capable, compassionate help from Dr. Alnounou. Reach out to the Digestive Health Clinic by phone or online today.