Discharge Instructions for Crohn’s Disease
You have been diagnosed with Crohn’s disease. Your digestive tract is swollen and irritated. All layers of your digestive tract may be affected. Although there is no cure for Crohn’s disease, you can receive treatment for the symptoms. Help manage your symptoms by following your doctor’s advice and watching what you eat.
Home Care
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Work closely with your doctor to determine the types of treatment that are best for you.
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Take your medications exactly as directed.
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Avoid foods with caffeine (coffee, tea, and cola), spicy foods, milk products, and raw fruits and vegetables.
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Try eating several small meals a day instead of 3 large ones.
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Keep appointments for regular checkups even if you are not having symptoms.
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Talk to your doctor about surgery for Crohn’s disease. Surgery won’t cure Crohn’s disease, but it may help control the symptoms. Only you and your doctor can decide if this option is right for you.
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Learn more about your condition. Contact the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation toll-free at 800-932-2423.
Follow-Up
Make a follow-up appointment as directed by our staff.
When to Call Your Doctor
Call your doctor right away if you have any of the following:
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Severe pain or bloating in your abdomen after meals
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Sores in your mouth
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Sores in your anal area (around your rectum)
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Fever above 101.0°F or chills
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Poor appetite or weight loss
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Bloody diarrhea
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Nausea or vomiting
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Skin rashes or skin that weeps (or drains)
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Changes in your vision
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Date Last Reviewed:
1/1/2006
Date Last Modified:
12/14/2007