Life with Crohn’s Disease

Crohn’s disease, an inflammatory bowel disease that causes inflammation in the digestive tract, is a very difficult disease to live with. But if the disease is approached correctly, then most people with the disease can learn to live a functional life.

Accutane, also known as Isotretinoin, is a medication that is used to treat acne.  Accutane has many reported side effects.   It has been linked to bowel problems, including inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), ulcerative colitis, and Crohn’s disease.  In June 2009, the manufacturer of Accutane announced that it notified the FDA of its intent to discontinue the manufacture and distribution of Accutane in the United States.

It is crucial that anyone suffering with Crohn’s disease first seek medical help. There are many drugs and treatments that can be offered to help make living with this disease manageable. Because the goal of medical treatment for Crohn’s disease is reducing the inflammation that triggers the symptoms, most treatments consist of drug therapy or surgery.

One of the main components in treating Crohn’s disease is a lifestyle change. Diet is the first area of life someone with Crohn’s disease needs to control. Although there is no evidence proving that what one eats causes this disease, certain foods and drinks may provoke symptoms. Limiting foods like dairy products and high- fat foods can be very beneficial. Also, eating foods with more fiber, eating small meals, drinking plenty of liquids, taking multivitamins and talking to a dietitian are helpful as well. Some alternative remedies that have been successful in treating Crohn’s disease are herbal and nutritional supplements, probiotics, fish oil, and acupuncture.

Someone with Crohn’s disease should also beware of stress; because a person’s normal digestive process changes when they are under too much pressure, their stomach empties at a slower pace and secretes more acid. Although stress cannot always be avoided, exercising, regular relaxation, and breathing exercises can help reduce stress.

But most of all, it is vital that someone with Crohn’s disease maintains a positive attitude. Letting family and friends create a support system around the person is key. Also, there are special networks and organizations that have been created in order to help support and improve the quality of life for someone suffering with Crohn’s disease.  For information about support groups for those with Crohn’s disease click here.

Do you believe you or a loved one has been injured by Accutane®? Goldberg & Osborne can help.

The law firm of Goldberg & Osborne is dedicated to helping injured people nationwide and is currently accepting cases for Accutane® victims. For a FREE case evaluation, please call us toll-free at (800) 935-2770 or submit a short and simple online case form here.