Crohn’s Disease Treatment in Orange County, CA

Causes of Crohn’s Disease

While the exact cause of Crohn’s disease remains unclear, many experts believe genetic predisposition and environmental triggers play significant roles. According to the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation, dietary habits and stress might aggravate symptoms, although they do not directly cause the disease. Additionally, disruptions in the immune system’s response to the bacteria normally found in the GI tract may lead to chronic inflammation, a characteristic of Crohn’s disease.

Symptoms of Crohn’s Disease

Crohn’s disease symptoms can vary widely among individuals, ranging from mild to severe. Common symptoms related to gastrointestinal inflammation include:

• Abdominal cramps
• Urgent bowel movements
• Persistent diarrhea
• Rectal bleeding
• Fever
• Fatigue
• Weight loss
• Loss of appetite
• Night sweats

Symptoms may occasionally be mild or absent, but certain foods or stress can trigger flare-ups. If you experience persistent symptoms or specific foods consistently trigger discomfort, it's essential to seek professional evaluation.

What to Expect During Your Consultation

At your initial consultation, Dr. Chung will thoroughly discuss your symptoms, lifestyle, and medical history to gain a comprehensive understanding of your condition. Diagnostic tests, including colonoscopy, imaging studies, blood tests, and tissue biopsies, may be recommended to confirm the diagnosis and assess disease severity, enabling the creation of an effective, personalized treatment plan.

Treatment Approaches for Crohn’s Disease

Treatment for Crohn’s disease focuses primarily on managing symptoms, reducing inflammation, and prolonging periods of remission. Dr. Chung tailors your treatment based on your symptoms and disease severity.

• Medication
• Medication is typically the first step in managing Crohn’s disease. Anti-inflammatory drugs, immunosuppressants, and biologic therapies can effectively control inflammation and symptoms. Though medications cannot cure Crohn’s, they provide symptom relief and promote healing of the GI tract, ultimately reducing flare-ups and improving quality of life.
• Nutritional and Dietary Management
• Dietary adjustments can play a significant role in managing Crohn’s symptoms and reducing flare-ups. Dr. Chung provides personalized dietary advice, helping you identify and avoid trigger foods while recommending beneficial nutritional adjustments.
• Surgical Treatment
• When medication and dietary changes are insufficient, surgical intervention may become necessary. Approximately 70% of individuals with Crohn’s disease eventually require surgery due to complications like intestinal blockages, fistulas, or fissures. Surgical treatments often involve removing the affected bowel segment (resection) to provide lasting relief and enhance quality of life.
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Recovery and Ongoing Management

Recovery timelines and management depend significantly on your personalized treatment plan. After surgical treatment, detailed aftercare instructions and follow-up visits will help ensure successful recovery and sustained remission. Regular check-ups allow Dr. Chung to monitor your progress closely, manage medications, and adjust treatments as needed.

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