SYMPTOMS OF CROHNS DISEASE

Symptoms of crohns disease may include bone fractures and osteoporosis as a result of malnutrition and medications used to control inflammation.

Malnutrition is a significant risk for individuals with Crohn's disease as chronic inflammation creates a need for increased caloric intake despite the nausea, pain, fatigue, and loss of appetite that accompanies the condition. The diseased tissue in the small intestine also fails to absorb nutrients properly, leading to further nutritional deficiency.

The antibiotics and corticosteroids used to treat inflammatory intestinal illness can also destroy bone health when used for 3 months and longer. Some of the more frequently prescribed drugs include 5-aminosalicylic acid (5-ASA) formulations, prednisone, azathioprine, mercaptopurine, methotrexate, infliximab, adalimumab, certolizumab and natalizumab. Hydrocortisone is also used with severe attacks of Crohn's disease.

Studies show that within the first year after starting corticosteroid therapy, patients lose an average 14 percent of their bone mineral content. Many experts recommend that people using corticosteroids have regular bone density scans, use bone building supplements and begin strength building exercises while they are undergoing treatment.

To learn how some of the symptoms of crohns disease can be addressed with vitamins and minerals....visit Osteoporosis Treatment Guidelines.


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