Debunking Crohn's Disease Myths: Facts & Understanding

Crohn's disease is an inflammatory bowel disease that can be devastating for the patient. Those who suffer with the incurable disease must also combat the myths that surround the condition.

All In Your Head

• It is a myth that Crohn's disease is caused by psychological problems or is in your imagination. A person that endures the painful and embarrassing symptoms of an inflammatory bowel disease can however develop anxiety and depression.

It's Only An Upset Stomach

• Crohn's disease effects the entire digestive system. It is an inflammatory disease that cause abscesses in the intestine, uncontrollable diarrhea, vomiting, ulcers in the mouth, loss of balance and severe joint pain.

There's a Cure

• Medications are available to help fight the painful symptoms ranging from chronic diarrhea to eye and joint pain. As of 2009 there is no cure, only management.

It's Not Hereditary

• The Crohn's disease patient may be genetically predisposed to a mutated gene that can cause the condition. The immune system is abnormal and members of the family are likely to develop the condition.

Crohn's is Contagious

• Inflammatory bowel disease is not infectious. It has been determined that Crohn's develops due to the patients' inherited genes and immune system.