3. Gastroduodenal Crohn’s Disease: When the Stomach Rebels
Affecting the stomach and the duodenum (the initial part of the small intestine), this type of Crohn’s is a bit of a rarity. Both these organs are central players in digestion.
The stomach breaks down food using acids, while the duodenum continues the process with enzymes. When these areas are inflamed, the entire digestive process can be thrown off-kilter.
It begins with nausea. A feeling that doesn’t just come and go, but lingers, making even the thought of food unappealing.
Vomiting isn’t rare, and when it becomes frequent, can lead to dehydration. Weight loss is another consequence, not just because of decreased food intake, but due to the impaired digestion and absorption of nutrients.
Beyond the physical, gastroduodenal Crohn’s can have a significant psychological impact. The continuous nausea and vomiting can lead to a fear of food, with patients often developing a form of aversion. This can further lead to nutritional deficiencies, given the decreased food intake and the body’s inability to process what’s consumed.
Management centers around dietary changes. Patients are often advised to opt for bland, easily digestible foods to minimize irritation.
Medications to reduce stomach acid, along with anti-inflammatories, form the core of the medical intervention. Regular nutritional assessment becomes essential to ensure that the body’s getting all it needs. In severe cases, where medications don’t yield the desired results, surgical interventions might be considered. (3)
