It is not believed that Crohn’s disease can be prevented or cured. While symptoms can come and go, a person with Crohn’s disease will have the condition for life. This fact is a key reason why getting an accurate diagnosis as soon as possible is so important. Namely, an early diagnosis helps a patient receive treatment sooner, thereby allowing their healthcare provider to help them monitor their disease progression.
The good news is that by managing and monitoring this disease closely, many people are able to prevent common complications.
FAQ
Can you get Crohn’s disease at any age?
Crohn’s disease can develop at any age and the condition has been known to affect men, women, and children. However, most people are between the ages of 15 and 35 when they get diagnosed.
What triggers Crohn’s disease?
It’s not entirely clear what triggers Crohn’s disease symptoms. Triggers like stress and diet (especially a diet that is heavy in processed foods) do not cause Crohn’s disease. In fact, it’s not fully proven that these things actually trigger symptoms. But doctors agree that stress and certain foods at least may make symptoms worse, at least for some people.
The use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen and naproxen sodium may also worsen inflammation in the bowels and trigger symptoms.
Disclaimer: this article does not constitute or replace medical advice. If you have an emergency or a serious medical question, please contact a medical professional or call 911 immediately. To see our full medical disclaimer, visit our Terms of Use page.
