Crohn's Disease: Prevention


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Prevention


Crohn's disease cannot be prevented because the cause is unknown. But you can take steps to reduce the severity of the disease.

  • Medicines taken regularly may reduce sudden (acute) attacks and keep the disease in remission (a period without symptoms).
  • Most experts recommend acetaminophen (Tylenol, for example) for pain relief rather than nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or naproxen. NSAIDs have been linked to flare-ups.3
  • Do not smoke. Smoking makes Crohn's disease worse.
  • Eat a healthy diet.
  • Never use antibiotics unless they have been prescribed for you by a doctor.
  • Get regular exercise.


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Last updated: October 09, 2008
Author: Monica Rhodes
Reviewed By: Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine, Jerome B. Simon, MD, FRCPC, FACP - Gastroenterology
Editors: Kathleen M. Ariss, MS, Pat Truman, MATC

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