BY DEAN PAPPAS M.D.
Crohn’s disease is a condition in which the gastrointestinal tract is chronically inflamed. This disease can result in a number of uncomfortable side effects, including abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, weight loss, and fever.
Although Crohn’s disease can be difficult to diagnose, the experienced doctors at the Colon & Rectal Surgical Specialists of New York have the expertise to accurately diagnose the condition so it can be properly treated. Crohn’s disease treatment will be customized to the unique needs of each patient, and may include medication, bowel rest, or surgery.
Here, patients can learn more about the medications for Crohn’s disease that may be prescribed at our Long Island, NY practice to control Crohn’s disease symptoms and provide our patients with an improved quality of life.
Antibiotics
Patients suffering from mild to moderate cases of Crohn’s disease are likely to be prescribed antibiotics. Antibiotics can be used to treat infections or to address certain complications of Crohn’s disease, such as abscesses and fistulas.
In addition, antibiotics significantly reduce the number of harmful bacteria in the intestine. It is widely believed that reducing bacteria in the intestine can be helpful in controlling the symptoms of Crohn’s disease.
Depending on the specific needs of each patient, antibiotics may be prescribed during times of a flare-up, or as a preventative measure to keep symptoms at bay.
Anti-Inflammatory Drugs
The most common cause of Crohn’s disease symptoms is inflammation in the intestines or other areas of the gastrointestinal tract. Anti-inflammatory drugs cannot cure Crohn’s disease, but they do slow down and reduce inflammation, which can be useful in preventing flare-ups. With the proper use of anti-inflammatory medication, patients can go years without experiencing the painful symptoms of Crohn’s disease.
The most common anti-inflammatory medications used in the treatment of Crohn’s disease are classified as 5-ASA drugs, which stands for 5-aminosalicylic acid. These medications are most effective in controlling mild to moderate cases of Crohn disease affecting the large disease or the last part of the small intestine.
Immune System Drugs
In certain cases, our doctors may choose to prescribe medications that curb the immune system. There are many complicated processes that take place in the body and contribute to inflammation. Immune system drugs, used in conjunction with antibiotics or steroids can halt the processes that cause inflammation. This can be useful in controlling Crohn’s disease symptoms and preventing flare-ups.
Biologics
When other medications are not producing the desired results, biologics treatment may be recommended. Biologics are prescription drugs that are made from living organisms. Like immune system drugs, biologics affect the immune system and are meant to control Crohn’s disease symptoms and reduce the number of flare-ups.
Biologics differ in that they target specific proteins that are known to cause inflammation. Biologics may prove useful in controlling mild to severe forms of Crohn’s disease.
Schedule an Appointment
If you are suffering from the symptoms of Crohn’s disease, it is time to learn more about the treatment options available at Colon & Rectal Surgical Specialists of New York. Schedule an appointment with one of our experienced doctors to find out how our personalized care can help you manage Crohn’s disease symptoms and improve your quality of life.
