Tips to Help Crohn's Disease Patients Navigate the Holidays

For patients with Crohn's disease, one of the most difficult aspects of a major illness is navigating holidays like Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, Christmas and New Year's. However, patients can help meet the challenge of the season by taking just a few steps to manage their condition.

Overview of Crohn's Disease

Crohn's and its cousin, ulcerative colitis, are inflammatory bowel diseases. They can affect the digestive tract from mouth to anus. Among the most common symptoms are diarrhea, pain, intestinal bleeding and bowel obstructions. Some symptoms occur outside the gut. An excellent source of information is the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation of America (CCFA).

Treatment often involves a combination of medications and surgery. I have undergone five Crohn's surgeries and currently take both immunosuppressants and corticosteroids on top of a more benign drug.

In addition to discomfort, one of the biggest concerns patients have is losing control of their health and how their body functions. There is no known cure for this illness, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Holidays: Myths and Reality

The winter holidays are busy and often stressful times. Although Crohn's disease has a seasonal component that results in flares for many patients during the winter months, one of the biggest myths surrounding the illness is that it's caused by stress. In fact, stress is not a cause but can have an adverse effect on any serious health condition.

Another myth is the existence of a list of foods that, when avoided, will keep all Crohn's patients in remission. Food sensitivities vary per patient, and avoiding specific foods is not a guarantee of a flare-free life.

The reality is that there are many things patients can do to avoid aggravated symptoms and the embarrassment associated with bathroom-related accidents, especially during the holidays.

Nutrition

Certain foods and beverages can agitate disease activity. What's most important is discovering your particular triggers.

Years ago, a gastroenterologist warned me to steer clear of these "problem" substances: caffeine, alcohol, tobacco and sugar (think CATS). Like many Crohnies, I'm lactose-intolerant and avoid dairy products. I also have to carefully watch the amount of soda I consume during holiday celebrations.

If you're uncertain of the foods that most affect your illness, check the CCFA site for some ideas. Also ask your doctor about the effect of alcohol and specific foods like grapefruit on any medications you take.

Public Restrooms

Bathroom-related accidents are near the top of every Crohn's patient's worry list. Public restrooms are a challenge, whether you need one while choosing a Christmas tree or shopping at the mall.

Always carry an emergency kit that includes an extra set of underwear and some baby wipes or similar product. Another essential is a large zippered plastic bag to hold any soiled clothing.

Before venturing out during the holidays, determine the location of public restrooms. If there isn't one nearby, consider axing that destination. This might also be a good time to avoid public transportation without access to restrooms.

Prescriptions

Doctors take time off, too, so be sure to check your supply of medications and obtain necessary refills early. If your pharmacy provider is changing on January 1, make sure you have enough medication to get past that date.

When you're traveling, be sure to take sufficient medication for your stay plus enough for a few days extra in case travel plans change. If you're flying, check with the airline as to the proper containers and packing of any prescriptions.

Overnight Travel

Don't forget to pack your prescriptions and a few pairs of extra underwear. Keep your emergency kit with you, not in your luggage.

If you're concerned about long periods without restroom access, ask your physician if it's all right to take Imodium or a similar product right before leaving to help control any diarrhea.

Also make sure to take information showing the name of your physician and an emergency contact, as well as a list of your medications and their respective dosages.

Fatigue

One of my greatest challenges as a Crohn's patient is avoiding getting really tired during the holidays. If I don't take a 30-minute nap every day, my gut rebels.

If fatigue causes your symptoms to worsen, try to at least get some extra sleep for a few weeks.

The winter holidays are challenges for most patients with Crohn's disease. However, by taking control of a few aspects of your behavior, you can navigate the holidays and enjoy them to the max.

Sources:

http://ccfa.org/info/diet?LMI=5.2

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/crohns-disease/DS00104

http://voices.yahoo.com/is-there-seasonal-pattern-crohns-1312523.html?cat=25

Personal experience