CROHNS DISEASE
According to John Hopkins University, In the United States over 500,000 people are affected by Crohn's Disease. The symptoms of Crohn's Disease can vary widely, making diagnosis and management challenging. This often leads to incorrect diagnosis. Symptoms include abdominal pain, diarrhea, extreme weight loss/fluctuations, fatigue, and joint pain.
What Causes Crohn's?
It is evident that Genetics play a significant role in the development of Crohns disease. Individuals with a family history of the disorder are at a higher risk, with a 20% increased likelihood of being affected. Research has also unveiled potential environmental triggers, including diet and lifestyle factors, which interacts with genetic predisposition to initiate the inflammatory cascade seen in Crohn's patients.
Treatment Options
Treatment of Crohn's involves a multifaceted approach, aiming to control inflammation, alleviate symptoms, and prevent complications. Medications such as corticosteroids, immunosuppressants, and biologics have proven to be effective in some patients, but certainly not all patients. Surgical intervention is sometimes necessary, particularly in cases of severe complications or when medications prove insufficient. Alarmingly, statistics indicate that over 80% of Crohn's patients will eventually require surgery.
THE RIPPLE EFFECT
The pain endured by those with Crohn's disease is often consistent and relentless, leading them to seek ways to alleviate their suffering. Many individuals turn to prescription medications, which can be effective in managing pain, but they also come with a risk of addiction. About 1 in every 6 patients diagnosed with Crohn's disease will fall victim to addiction. The desire for relief from daily agony can unintentionally steer these patients towards dependency on painkillers, leaving them trapped in the vicious cycle of addiction.
We have a collective responsibility to create a healthcare system that prioritizes pain management without compromising the well-being of patients. This requires collaboration amongst medical professionals, researchers, policymakers, and advocacy groups to ensure that effective and non-addictive treatment options are available and accessible to all those who suffer from Crohn's disease and any other painful disease.
Those who battle Crohn's are not just facing a physical ailment, but also a challenging emotional journey. We must stand united in our efforts to combat the alarming trend of Crohn's patients falling victim to addiction. By raising awareness, promoting understanding, and advocating for better pain management practices, we can make a significant difference in the lives of these brave individuals and build a more compassionate and supportive community.