Causes of Crohns Disease

Crohn’s Disease Type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Crohn’s disease usually occurs in the ileum, but it can affect any part of the digestive tract, from the mouth to the anus. Diagnosis is sometimes difficult since Crohn’s often is very similar to other disorders including irritable bowel syndrome and ulcerative colitis.

Incidence: Both men and women are equally affected.

Onset: Most likely to occur between the ages of 15 and 30 years, and after the age of 60.

Etiology: Unknown.

Clinical Findings:The most common symptoms are abdominal pain, often in the lower right quadrant, and diarrhea. Rectal bleeding, weight loss, and fever may also occur. Anemia may occur if bleeding is persistent.

Nursing Focus
■ Monitor I/O and maintain fluid and electrolyte balance.
■ Assess for skin breakdown and provide routine skin care.
■ Unless contraindicated, fluid intake should be 3000 mL/day.
■ Use calorie counts to ensure adequate nutrition.
■ Monitor lab results.

Patient Teaching
■ Provide Pt and family with literature on Crohn’s disease.
■ Instruct Pt that fluid intake should be at least 3 liters per day and meals should be small and frequent to maintain adequate nutrition.
■ Teach Pt to minimize the frequency and severity of future exacerbations by getting adequate rest and relaxation, reducing or avoiding stress, and maintaining adequate nutrition.
■ Explain the dosages, route, actions, and adverse reactions of meds.