If you have Crohn’s disease, you’re most likely looking for ways to help manage symptoms like diarrhea, fatigue, and pain. These six strategies are effective for managing Crohn’s symptoms and reducing the incidence of flare-ups.
#1. Drinking Less Alcohol
Reducing alcohol consumption can decrease the likelihood of Crohn’s flare-ups. The more alcohol a person drinks, the more inflamed their intestinal lining can become. This coupled with Crohn’s-related inflammation can result in increased malnutrition and bleeding. Additionally, alcohol can have negative interactions with any medications you’re taking for Crohn’s symptoms.
#2. Exercising More
Getting exercise can help Crohn’s disease sufferers better regulate bowel function and reduce stress. However, keep in mind that strenuous physical activities can increase your gastrointestinal motility (the speed at which food is moved through the digestive tract). Because of this, people with Crohn’s are typically recommended to choose low- and moderate-level exercise.
If you’re experiencing a flare-up, symptoms may get in the way of exercise. In these cases, it’s always okay to rest or to choose mild exercise as needed. When you’re in remission, you can return to your normal exercise level.
Discuss exercise plans with Dr. Crandall at our office in West Palm Beach. We’re not far from Gaines Park, The Palm Beach Country Club, and The Norton Museum of Art.
#3. Stopping Smoking
Nicotine can increase inflammation and make flare-ups more likely. It can also cause Crohn’s sufferers to need higher medication dosages and repeat surgeries. By quitting smoking, Crohn’s patients improve digestive tract health.
#4. Changing Your Diet
Certain foods can exacerbate Crohn’s symptoms. If you’re unsure about which foods are making your Crohn’s symptoms worse, try keeping a food diary and looking for patterns. When you identify triggers, experiment with changing your diet.
Dairy products, carbonated beverages, and caffeine are all likely to exacerbate symptoms. Avoiding these can help, as can sticking with small meals and drinking more water.
#5. Getting More Sleep
Lack of sleep can exacerbate Crohn’s symptoms like fatigue, make it harder to deal with flare-ups, and increase pain perception and inflammation. Because of this, getting seven to nine hours of sleep every night is key for Crohn’s sufferers.
Getting enough sleep decreases the chronic gut inflammation that accompanies Crohn’s, reduces symptom severity, and encourages proper digestion and nutrient absorption. It also allows for a stronger immune system and boosts energy levels.
#6. Reducing Stress
Stress and anxiety can trigger flare-ups and increase symptom severity, which can in turn lead to even more stress and anxiety. Meditation, breathing exercises, and biofeedback can help reduce stress. Additionally, support groups and therapy can help Crohn’s sufferers process their feelings about their condition, reducing depression and anxiety.
Learn More from Dr. Chauncey Crandall
Contact The Palm Beach Clinic in West Palm Beach, FL, for a consultation with Dr. Chauncey Crandall regarding a concierge medicine approach to Crohn’s disease management. Our office is right near the Palm Harbor Marina and isn’t far from the West Palm Beach Marriott.