What is Crohn’s Disease?

Risk Factors And Causes

Crohn’s disease is known to affect up to 700,000 individuals, including both men and women, in the United States. Although the disease can occur at any age, it is usually found in those between fifteen and thirty-five. Typically, patients develop the condition while they are younger. Crohn’s disease can also affect individuals of any ethnicity, though Caucasians and those of Eastern European Jewish descent appear to be at the highest risk. Furthermore, those with a family history of Crohn’s disease are at a much higher risk for developing it themselves. Reports indicate one out of five individuals with Crohn’s disease also have a close family member with the condition as well.

Diet and stress are the most significant known factors to cause Crohn’s disease, particularly diets high in refined foods and fat. It may also be due to overuse of antibiotics, which wipe out all the bacteria in the gut, even good bacteria. Taking antibiotics can weaken the immune system, which leaves the door wide open for infection to occur. Smoking can also greatly increase an individual's risk of developing Crohn’s disease, though it is also the factor most easily controlled. Finally, although nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen and naproxen sodium do not cause Crohn’s disease, they can exacerbate symptoms.

Continue reading to learn about diagnosing Crohn’s disease and medical treatments.