Crohn's Disease Specialist
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Metropolitan Gastroenterology Consultants
Darrien Gaston, MD, FACP, FACG
Gastroenterologist located in Beverly, Chicago, IL
Crohn’s disease is a painful, chronic condition caused by inflammation, usually in the lower intestine. If you’re experiencing mild to severe abdominal pain, recurrent diarrhea, unexplained weight loss, and low energy, Dr. Darrien Gaston at Metropolitan Gastroenterology Consultants in Chicago offers the solutions you need to live a more comfortable, happier life. The symptoms of Crohn’s disease can be damaging, so call Dr. Gaston's office or book an appointment online to begin your path to healing.
Crohn's Disease Q & A
What causes Crohn’s disease?
This chronic inflammatory bowel disease affects either the digestive tract or the gastrointestinal tract, causing cramping and pain in the abdomen, rectal bleeding, and a loss of energy. However, researchers still don’t know what causes Crohn’s disease.
Crohn’s disease may be connected to your genetics, overactivity issues with your immune system, or infections from certain bacteria and viruses. The disease can affect anyone at any age but is experienced by men and women between the ages of 15 and 35 frequently.
How is Crohn’s disease diagnosed?
Dr. Gaston reviews your previous medical history and writes down a list of your medications. He uses a variety of tests to determine if your symptoms are related to Crohn’s. These tests may include:
- Blood work
- Antibody blood testing
- Fecal test (for evidence of blood in the stool)
- X-rays
- CT scans
- MRI scans
- Endoscopy/colonoscopy
He evaluates your symptoms evaluated based on severity: mild to moderate, moderate to severe, and very severe. During your examination, it’s important to be upfront about your symptoms. Dr. Gaston reviews your medical information and test results to determine the best course of action for treating a Crohn’s disease diagnosis.
How will my Crohn’s disease be treated?
Crohn’s disease is a chronic condition, sparked by inflammation. Several medications can treat flare-ups, reduce pain, and lessen other Crohn’s symptoms. Dr. Gaston evaluates your test results and recommends treatments based on your medical history and the severity of symptoms.
While there’s no known cure for Crohn’s disease currently, remission is possible with the proper treatment.
Treatment options may include over-the-the counter medicines like pain relievers, anti-diarrheal medications, and vitamin supplements. Prescription antibiotics, steroids, and other drug therapies can treat more severe symptoms.
Will I need surgery for my Crohn’s disease?
The preferred first course of treatment for resolving symptoms of Crohn’s disease is medications.
If the chronic symptoms don’t resolve, surgery may be necessary to repair disease-related intestinal damage or to clear a block in the intestines. Dr. Gaston follows your treatment results, and if surgery is necessary, he discusses your options during follow-up visits.
