Crohn’s disease and Ulcerative Colitis are part of the family of inflammatory bowel diseases, which involve chronic inflammation affecting the digestive system, primarily the intestines.
Crohn’s Disease:
Crohn’s disease is a chronic inflammatory bowel condition that can affect any part of the digestive tract, from the mouth to the anus.
However, in approximately 75% of cases, inflammation occurs in the lower section of the small intestine, where it meets the large intestine.
This inflammation can occasionally lead to bowel obstruction.
The disease presents with various primary symptoms, which may include any combination of the following (not a comprehensive list):
- Intense and acute abdominal pain
- Diarrhoea
- Bowel irregularities
- Poor absorption of nutrients from food
- Fever
- Weight loss
In some cases, inflammation can persist and spread to the abdominal cavity.
Individuals with Crohn’s disease often experience sensitivity to a wide range of foods, including grains, fruits, and vegetables, which can trigger episodes of pain, diarrhoea, cold sweats, and potentially exacerbate inflammation.
Food sensitivities vary among patients, meaning what affects one person may not impact another.
The exact cause of Crohn’s disease remains uncertain, but it is believed to involve multiple factors, such as:
- Genetics
- Smoking
- Western and processed diets
- Previous gastrointestinal infections
- Stress, which can contribute to recurrent and fluctuating disease activity
Crohn’s disease is a chronic condition that can alternate between periods of remission and active symptoms.
While it may remain dormant at times, it can cause significant discomfort during flare-ups.
Ulcerative Colitis:
Ulcerative colitis, closely related to Crohn’s disease, shares similar symptoms but distinguishes itself by primarily affecting the large intestine with inflammation.
Both conditions currently lack a cure, as inflammation in these diseases stems from an overactive immune system, which releases inflammatory substances damaging the intestinal lining.
This autoimmune aspect complicates the search for effective treatments.
Nutritional interventions, overseen by dietitians, naturopaths, and other qualified nutrition professionals, play a pivotal role in managing these conditions.
Tailoring diets to minimise exacerbating components for each patient can significantly alleviate symptoms.
In certain cases of Crohn’s disease, intermittent use of steroids like prednisolone may be necessary. These medications alleviate symptoms by reducing inflammation in the digestive system, typically taking effect within days or weeks.
They are commonly administered orally, though injections may also be recommended.
How can reflexology help Crohn’s and colitis patients?
Reflexology treatments don’t aim to cure Crohn’s and colitis, but they can play a significant role in trying to alleviate the symptoms.
The primary objective of these treatments is to induce relaxation in the body, aiding in the reduction of inflammation and promoting rest.
Given the autoimmune nature of these conditions, reflexology may also target specific aspects of the immune system.
Furthermore, it can help strengthen the digestive system overall and address inflammation in affected areas.
The Reflexology treatments can try and help ease severe symptoms and potentially extend periods of remission while providing relief from associated digestive issues.
