The month of December is Crohn’s and Colitis Awareness month and the staff of Centers for Gastroenterology in northern Colorado would like to help people that have been diagnosed with this disease or are considering seeking help with their symptoms. Crohn’s disease is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease which affects up to 750,000 Americans. It is a complicated medical condition, but it is one that the experts at Centers for Gastroenterology are well equipped to treat. They offer many treatment options after diagnosis and can start those effected back on their path to wellness.
What causes Crohn’s Disease?
The cause of Crohn’s disease has not been determined. Several factors may contribute to it, including genetics, the immune system, and environmental factors such as tobacco use or the bacteria present in the colon.
What are symptoms of Crohn’s Disease?
Crohn’s disease commonly affects the last part of the small intestine and/or the colon. Symptoms usually present in people in their twenties and thirties. Patients often complain of abdominal cramping, diarrhea, or weight loss. The severity of the disease can vary from mild inflammation to multiple, deep ulcerations associated with bleeding, pain and scarring.
How is Crohn’s disease treated?
There are a variety of medications used to treat Crohn’s disease. Mild disease may be treated with oral medications, but moderate to severe disease often requires potent medications including immunosuppressants (pills) and Biologics (IV infusions). The experts at Centers for Gastroenterology can help you determine the best treatment option for you. If IV Biologic therapy is recommended, Centers for Gastroenterology provides a state-of-the-art infusion center in Loveland where these medications can be given safely under the careful supervision of your provider. These medications have proven to be very effective and remission is possible. Once in remission, most patients require only 6-8 IV infusions each year.
Centers for Gastroenterology has experts that can treat and manage Crohn’s disease. The benefit of an on-site infusion center provides patients with the newest therapies best suited to treat this condition. Providers are available to sit down with you and answer your questions about Crohn’s disease. A team-based approach to management of this condition is their number-one priority. If you, or someone you care about, would like more information about Crohn’s disease or has concerns about their symptoms, please call to schedule an appointment to meet with one of our expert providers at the phone numbers listed below. You can also visit the website for the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation (CCFA) at crohnscolitisfoundation.org. for additional information.
Fort Collins Office: (970) 207-9773
Greeley Office: (970) 378-1414
Loveland Office: (970) 669-5432
