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Crohn's disease is a chronic condition that requires ongoing management and monitoring. Therefore, it's critical that you feel at ease speaking with your gastroenterologist. You are a member of your own care team, and your appointments should leave you feeling confident.

Finding a doctor who is a good fit for you is an important step toward disease management success. Keep a journal in which you write down any questions you have for your doctor and bring it with you to each appointment. You can begin with the six questions listed below.

The more you know, the better equipped you'll be to manage your condition and gain insight into your doctor's treatment approach.

1. What are my treatment options?

Your doctor should be able to tell you about Crohn's disease treatment options. Because Crohn's disease is incurable, treatment focuses on putting the condition into remission by reducing inflammation. This can be accomplished in several ways:

Medication

There are medications available to treat Crohn's disease:

• Aminosalicylates (5-ASA) reduce inflammation in the colon lining.
• Corticosteroids suppress the immune system as a whole.
• Immunomodulators work by suppressing the immune system to reduce inflammation.
• Antibiotics are used to treat infections such as abscesses.
• Finally, biological therapies are designed to target and reduce the inflammatory response.
• Each medication has benefits and drawbacks that your doctor can explain.

Diet

Food has a complicated relationship with Crohn's disease. Certain dietary items can cause flares, so they should be avoided. Dairy, fat, and fiber are a few examples. In severe cases, temporary bowel rest may be prescribed.

This method generally entails abstaining from some or all foods and receiving nutrients via intravenous fluids.

Nutrient absorption can be hampered by intestinal inflammation. As a result, malnutrition is a complication of Crohn's disease. Your doctor can advise you on how to deal with the dietary puzzle that is Crohn's disease.

Surgery

Crohn's disease is sometimes treated surgically. This is done to repair or remove diseased gastrointestinal tract sections, or to treat an emergency, such as a bowel obstruction. Ask your doctor what criteria you should meet before considering surgery.

2. What can you tell me about biologics?

Biologics are the most recent treatment breakthrough for Crohn's disease. They are medications made from living cells that work by reducing inflammation.

Some of them aim to reduce the inflammation caused by tumor necrosis factor (TNF). Others prevent inflammation particles from reaching inflamed areas of the body, such as the gut, giving these areas time to rest and recover.

Biologics have side effects, the most common of which is suppressed immunity. Ask your gastroenterologist about the benefits and drawbacks of this treatment approach to see if it's right for you.

3. What treatments are recommended for my symptoms?

Treatment recommendations for Crohn's disease are based on a person's symptoms and the overall prognosis of their condition. Your doctor will also take into account the results of your medical tests. All of these factors influence which medications will work best for you.

Depending on the severity of your Crohn's disease, your doctor may immediately recommend a biologic. Steroids may be the first medication your doctor prescribes for milder Crohn's disease.

Prepare to discuss all of your Crohn's symptoms with your doctor so that they can help you choose the best treatment.

4. How do you manage remission?

Managing remission entails keeping an eye on your condition and protecting yourself from new flares. Inquire with your doctor about the types of regular assessments you will receive, which can range from clinical observation to blood and stool tests.

Traditionally, doctors have relied solely on symptoms to determine whether or not you are in remission. Additional testing is recommended when symptoms do not match the level of Crohn's activity.

Inquire with your doctor about continuing medication during remission. This is the most commonly recommended method. The goal is to keep you safe from new flares.

5. Can alternative treatments help?

According to research, alternative therapies have yet to be proven effective in replacing conventional treatment. If you decide to try fish oil, probiotics, or herbal supplements, consult your doctor first to ensure they will not interfere with your medication. Furthermore, complementary approaches should not be used in place of your medication.

6. What lifestyle advice do you have?

Any condition, including Crohn's, is affected by one's way of life. Consult your doctor about stress reduction, exercise, and other beneficial lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking.