Nearly 700,000 Americans suffer from Crohn’s disease, yet most don’t like to talk about it. Many suffer in silence; after all, Crohn’s is a bathroom disease causing inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract. Margaret Suanne Bone, an activist for Crohn’s disease, is familiar with this disease since her own brother suffers from Crohn’s.  According to Margaret Suanne Bone, Crohn’s symptoms are not a good topic of discussion. After all, who wants to talk about diarrhea, abdominal pain, gas, and bloating, adds Margaret Suanne Bone.

Individuals affected by Crohn’s disease

Crohn’s disease can occur at any age, but the peak age is between 16 and 35. Both sexes suffer equally. Caucasians are affected about twice as often as other ethnic groups. An increase in disease incidence has been recorded in the last 20 years.

Causes of Crohn’s disease

The exact reasons for the occurrence of the disease have not been clarified. Certain infectious diseases are associated with Crohn’s disease.

Symptoms of Crohn’s disease

Sufferers complain of diarrhea, abdominal pain, weakness, weight loss and fever. As a result, many suffer from anemia. During the course of the disease many other complications can occur.

Treatment for Crohn’s disease

Neither drugs nor surgical therapy can currently heal Crohn’s disease. In general, all incompatible foods should be strictly avoided. Sugar should be greatly reduced. Diarrhea can be treated with anti-diarrheal agents.

Support for Crohn’s disease patients

From her brother, Margaret Suanne Bone learned that Crohn’s disease patients need all kinds of support. Some rely on their doctors, others draw support from their families or friends, says Margaret Suanne Bone. Support groups sponsored by organizations like the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of America usually offer helpful educational programs and set up fundraising events for members, donors, and volunteers.