I think I may have Crohn’s disease. What should I do if my symptoms are getting worse?
The question, asked by a woman aged 30 to 44
I’m 31 and moved to Bangalore for work in 2022. I’ve been eating outside a lot because of my schedule and long commute. For the few months I’ve had frequent stomach pain, loose stools and low energy and it’s now affecting my work. I’m worried it could be Crohn’s disease. What should I get checked?
Frequent stomach pain, loose stools, and low energy these three affecting your work need proper attention. Crohn’s could be a possibility, but it is not the only explanation, and the next important step is to find out for sure. Here’s what could be happening: Eating out raises the risk of infections like giardia or amoebiasis. It can cause months of loose stools and fatigue. Crohn’s or ulcerative colitis can cause inflammation in the gut lining. The low energy can be due to inflammation and poor absorption of iron. Unusual eating habits and oil- or grease-filled foods from fast food joints may trigger IBS-like problems. There are many common signs for both conditions like coeliac disease and gluten intolerance. In the first place, you should go and see a doctor as soon as possible. However, in case you have such symptoms as blood in the stool, fever, abdominal pain, dehydration, and weight loss, you can go to the hospital right away. A fecal calprotectin test can help diagnose inflammation in your intestines. Therefore, you can have a colonoscopy.
Suggested Tests
Stool culture, ova and parasites Faecal calprotectin CBC, ESR and CRP, to check for anaemia and inflammation Serum albumin, as low levels can indicate ongoing inflammation or poor absorption Ferritin, vitamin B12 and vitamin D, given the low energy and loose stools Kidney function and electrolytes, as frequent loose stools can cause dehydration Coeliac screen with tTG-IgA and total IgA Colonoscopy with biopsy, carried out by a gastroenterologist where calprotectin or inflammation markers are raised MR enterography, at the gastroenterologist's discretion, to assess the small bowel
How Clinic Living Plus Can Help
At CLP, we start with a clear diagnosis to support your healing process, even if it’s an acute infection, IBS, or Crohn’s. Our doctors order the right first tests, which include stool tests for infection and faecal calprotectin for inflammation, thereby separating IBS from other causes. We then accordingly decide if you need colonoscopy or a gastroenterologist review. If it is Crohn’s, we don’t replace your medical treatment; we build around it with gut healing nutrition, nutrient repletion, stress care, and training at the right intensity. These lead to longer, steadier remission. The therapy for the deficiencies through IV nutrition and hydration will assist you fast as your gut heals. We have a nutrition coach who provides you with an easy-to-follow meal plan to balance your work life and social life with tips on what to consume and avoid. Follow-up check to monitor your symptoms, inflammatory indicators, and nutrition level. You don’t have to assume everything. Connect with us for an online consultation or, if it’s feasible, visit us in HSR Layout.
Lifestyle & Nutrition Tips
Eat only fresh foods prepared at home and avoid eating out. Keep track of your diet, bowel movements, stomach pains, and energy. Do not eat anything that can cause symptoms, if you have diarrhea or if there is any discomfort in your stomach. Avoid consumption of spicy foods, fat-filled foods, alcohol, and caffeine. Proper hydration is needed; in cases of diarrhea, medical guidance for oral rehydration should be considered. It is hard to eat when there are digestion issues, but nevertheless try to maintain a healthy diet.
What to Do Next
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