Crohn's disease is a chronic inflammatory disease of the intestines. It primarily causes ulcerations (breaks in the lining) of the small and large intestines, but can affect the digestive system anywhere from the mouth to the anus. Symptoms depend on what part of the gastrointestinal tract is affected. Symptoms range from mild to severe, and can come and go with periods of flare-ups. Symptoms of Crohn's disease may include:
- abdominal pain
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Loss of appetite
- Pain with passing stool (tenesmus)
- Persistent, watery diarrhea
- Unintentional weight loss
Although medications cannot cure Crohn's disease, they can reduce symptoms and help you control your condition. Medications for treating Crohn's disease may include:
Surgery may involve removing a portion of diseased bowel, or simply the draining of an abscess or fistula. Surgery does not cure Crohn's disease.
According to the theories of traditional Chinese medicine, Crohn's disease can be divided into four general categories:
TCM uses Chinese herbal formulas and acupuncture to treat the root cause of the illness (not just simply symptom relief). Acupuncture and Chinese herbs provide a safe, effective and natural whole body approach. Each patient will be treated as an individual. Optimal results will be obtained with both Chinese herbs and acupuncture when specific treatments are customized for each patient. If you would like to pursue this form of treatment or information, please contact us.
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