Crohn's disease is a chronic inflammatory disease that causes such things as weight loss, stomach pains and diarrhea. There is usually marked periods of remissions as well as activity. This usually affects the lower portion of the small intestines and sometimes even the large intestines. In some cases it can even affect the digestive system. The areas of the stomach that get infected usually have ulcers and are red and swollen. When the ulcers heal, they may leave scars that can make the intestines very narrow and this can cause obstructions.

When a person is inflicted with this disease, they may be prescribed medications to help deal with the symptoms of Crohn's disease. Let's take a look at the different side effects that you may incur while on taking certain medications.

Steroids or Cortisone - Corticosteroids which are also know as steroids and cortisone, help a great deal with symptoms of Crohn's disease. At the beginning stages of the disease, such drugs as prednisone may be prescribed in heavy doses to help get things under control. Then as the symptoms decrease the doses of the steroids will taper down. Side effects of this type of medication may make your body more susceptible to infections.

Anti-inflammatory drugs - This is the type of medication that is usually the first that is prescribed as it can help to relieve inflammation. Side effects of these types of medications may include: nausea, headaches, diarrhea and vomiting.

Infliximab or Remicade- This is prescribed to those who do not respond well to the traditional treatments such as the anti-inflammatory drugs or even corticosteroids. This has been approved by the FDA and is a TNF substance.

Immune system suppressors- This type of drug suppresses the immune system as they work to block the immune reaction



that aides in the inflammation. The side effects of this medication may include: Lower resistance to infections, vomiting, diarrhea and nausea.

Antibiotics- This type of medication is used to treat infections of the intestine from the overgrowth of bacteria in the small intestine. Women may get yeast infections as a result from taking antibiotics but that can be side stepped with proper diet.

No matter which medication your doctor prescribes for you, you will want to know what the possible side effects are and what you can do to prevent them. Let's face it, you are already going through enough symptoms and you will want to do what you can to prevent any unwanted side effects that will give you discomfort. It is best to talk with your doctor to see what you may have in side effect and the best way to avoid them or deal with them.