Crohn's Disease vs Stomach Upset in 2025: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment Costs

Overview

Gastroenteritis, commonly known as stomach flu or intestinal infection, shares many symptoms with Crohn's disease. Causes of intestinal infections include:

• Foodborne illnesses
• Food allergies
• Intestinal inflammation
• Parasites
• Bacteria
• Viruses

Diagnosing Crohn's disease requires ruling out these other causes. Understanding the basics of stomach upset is essential before assuming a more serious condition.

Understanding the Stomach

The stomach is located in the upper abdomen between the esophagus and small intestine. Its functions include:

• Receiving and breaking down food
• Eliminating harmful agents
• Supporting digestion
• Sending fullness signals to the brain

The stomach protects against infections by secreting acid that neutralizes harmful bacteria and viruses present in food. The small intestine absorbs most nutrients, while the stomach breaks down amino acids and simple sugars like glucose. It also metabolizes certain medications such as aspirin. A valve at the stomach's lower end regulates food entry into the small intestine.

Common Causes of Stomach Upset

Stomach upset is characterized by inflammation of the stomach and intestinal lining. It can result from viruses, parasites, or bacteria like Salmonella or E. coli. Allergic reactions to foods, excessive alcohol or caffeine intake, overeating, or fatty foods can also trigger symptoms.

What is Crohn's Disease?

Crohn's disease is a chronic inflammatory condition affecting the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. While the stomach can be involved, inflammation may occur anywhere along the GI tract, including:

• Small intestine
• Mouth
• Esophagus
• Colon
• Rectum

Besides stomach upset, Crohn's disease often causes symptoms like:

• Diarrhea
• Weight loss
• Fatigue
• Anemia
• Joint pain

Symptoms of Stomach Upset

Typical symptoms include:

• Abdominal pain
• Cramps
• Nausea (with or without vomiting)
• Increased bowel movements
• Loose stools or diarrhea
• Headaches
• Body aches
• Chills (with or without fever)

Treatment Options for Stomach Upset

Most stomach upset cases resolve without medical intervention. Treatment focuses on hydration and diet management. Antibiotics are only necessary if a specific bacterial infection is confirmed.

Clear Liquids

Adults are advised to follow a clear liquid diet for 24 to 36 hours when experiencing nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. This includes drinking 2 to 3 liters of water, sports drinks, or other clear fluids daily, while avoiding solid foods, caffeine, and alcohol.

Wait 1 to 2 hours before sipping water if vomiting occurs. Ice chips or popsicles can help. Acceptable clear liquids include decaffeinated beverages like:

• Ginger ale
• 7-Up
• Decaffeinated tea
• Clear broth
• Diluted juices (preferably apple juice)

Avoid citrus juices such as orange juice.

Soft Foods

Once clear liquids are tolerated, soft foods can be introduced, including:

• Saltine crackers
• Toast (white bread)
• Boiled potatoes
• White rice
• Applesauce
• Bananas
• Probiotic yogurt with live cultures
• Cottage cheese
• Lean meats like skinless chicken

Probiotics such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium may reduce the duration and severity of diarrhea linked to viral infections. Research continues on optimal strains, dosages, and treatment durations.

The American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) states that adults can resume their normal diet after 24 to 48 hours if symptoms improve but should avoid certain foods for 1 to 2 weeks, including:

• Spicy foods
• Uncultured dairy (milk and cheese)
• Whole grains and high-fiber foods
• Raw vegetables
• Fried or fatty foods
• Caffeine and alcohol

Medications

Acetaminophen helps alleviate fever, headaches, and body aches. Avoid aspirin and ibuprofen as they may irritate the stomach.

Over-the-counter options like bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol) or loperamide hydrochloride (Imodium) can control diarrhea and loose stools in adults.

When to Seek Medical Attention

Most stomach upset symptoms resolve within 48 hours with proper care. Persistent symptoms may indicate Crohn's disease or another serious condition.

Consult a healthcare professional if you experience any of the following alongside stomach upset:

• Persistent abdominal pain unrelieved by bowel movements or vomiting
• Diarrhea or vomiting lasting more than 24 hours
• More than three episodes of diarrhea or vomiting within an hour
• Fever above 101°F (38°C) unresponsive to acetaminophen
• Blood in stool or vomit
• No urination for 6+ hours
• Dizziness
• Rapid heartbeat
• Inability to pass gas or complete bowel movements
• Pus discharge from the anus

Outlook

With appropriate treatment, stomach upset generally resolves quickly. Crohn's disease, however, causes recurring or persistent symptoms such as weight loss, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps.

If symptoms continue, seek medical advice. There's no cure for Crohn's disease, but medications and lifestyle changes can help manage it effectively.

Connecting with support groups or others facing similar challenges can also provide valuable insights and encouragement.

FAQ:

Q: Where do people with Crohn's disease typically feel pain?

From our Facebook community

A: Crohn's disease can affect the entire gastrointestinal tract from mouth to anus. However, cramping pain usually occurs in the lower small intestine and colon.

Mark R. LaFlamme, MD

These expert responses are for informational purposes only and do not replace professional medical advice.

Read the original article in English.

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