What Are Potential Complications of Crohn's Disease?

Posted: 12/14/2017 7:50 AM by Interim HealthCare
If your aging parent has been diagnosed with Crohn's disease, it is important that you as their family caregiver understand that the effects of this disease can go beyond just the initial symptoms. While the symptoms themselves can be difficult and range from the mild to the severe, there are also potential complications of the disease that can lead to further diminished health and challenges for your parent. Understanding these is an important step in helping your parent to manage their condition and guard their health.
 
Some of the potential complications of Crohn's disease include:
  • Bowel obstructions
  • Ulcers throughout the digestive tract, including in the mouth
  • Fistulas
  • Malnutrition
  • Severe weight loss
  • Colon cancer
  • Skin problems
  • Increased risk of infection
  • Problems with medications, including increased risk of infection 

Talk to your parent's doctor about these complications so that they can help you to detect when your parent might be facing them and what you can do to help minimize their effect. The doctor can help you to recognize when your parent is dealing with normal symptoms of their disease or when something more severe is going on and they might need additional support and care. Remember that you know your parent best and if you notice something about their health or symptoms that seems off or that concerns you, do not hesitate to get in touch with their medical team to discuss it so that you can get them the care that they need as quickly and effectively as possible.
 
Starting elderly care for your aging parent can be one of the best decisions that you can make for them. Bringing a professional caregiver into your parent's care routine can ensure that they have access to the care, support, and assistance that they need to manage their challenges and limitations in the way that is right for them. Whether you are in the sandwich generation caring for your elderly parent and your children and therefore have a very busy schedule, you live at a distance from your parent and are unable to be with them as often as you would like, or you have your own limitations that keep you from being able to fulfill your parent's needs effectively, elderly care can give you peace of mind. Knowing that this care provider is with your parent lets you know that they have access to highly personalized services designed with their health, safety, and quality of life in mind, while still keeping you involved every step of the way.

More information about caregivers.