1. Call your doctor.
If you’re in the middle of a Crohn’s disease flare, you need to be able to reach your doctor right away. And be open about the types of symptoms you’re experiencing, whether that’s fever, chills, abdominal pain, bleeding, or frequent diarrhea — all of which can indicate that your condition is worsening, says Ramanujan Samavedy, MD, a gastroenterologist and clinical assistant professor at the University of Tennessee’s Graduate School of Medicine.
“The relationship you have with your doctor is one of the most important parts of managing Crohn’s disease,” says Kathy Walker-Oaks, RN, a nurse at University Gastroenterology at the University of Tennessee Medical Center in Knoxville. If you and your doctor don’t already have a plan about how to handle a flare, be sure to develop one soon.
2. Don’t take just any medication.
Some pain medications — even over-the-counter ones — can make your symptoms worse, so talk to your doctor about which drugs you can safely take. In the meantime, try easing joint pain with heat therapy, gentle massage, and rest instead. Staying hydrated can also help relieve stiffness, says Walker-Oaks.
3. Pare down your diet.
Avoid foods that make you feel gassy or bloated. For some people, that means steering clear of spicy foods, alcohol, dairy products, and greasy foods, which can worsen diarrhea and cramping. "Bland foods and clear liquids are best during a flare," Walker-Oaks says. Keep a supply of cooked or canned vegetables, broth-based soups, bread or crackers, and lean meats on hand. You might want to talk with your doctor about taking a nutritional supplement during this time as well.
“Drinking plenty of water can also help prevent dehydration,” Walker-Oaks says. Aim for at least 64 ounces of fluid a day; if you’re experiencing diarrhea, you should drink even more, being sure to include sports drinks with electrolytes, Dr. Samavedy says. He also recommends avoiding sodas and other sugary drinks, which can worsen the symptoms of Crohn’s disease.
If your diarrhea is severe, tell your doctor right away. You may need to have fluids and other nutrients administered intravenously (IV) in order to give your intestine time to rest and heal. Called bowel rest, this is typically needed only during severe flares, when hospitalization is necessary.
4. Give your skin some TLC.
During periods of frequent diarrhea, the skin around the anus may become raw and irritated. Walker-Oaks advises keeping the area as clean and dry as possible. If the skin isn’t broken, you can apply a zinc oxide-based topical ointment for relief; if the skin is broken or doesn't heal, call your doctor.
Painful mouth ulcers, similar to canker sores, are also common in people with Crohn’s disease. “Good oral hygiene is key,” Walker-Oaks says. “Flossing, brushing, and follow-up dental care for mouth health is important.” These ulcers usually go away without treatment in 10 to 14 days. If they linger or are bothersome, your doctor may prescribe a medication that can help.
5. Go easy on yourself.
“Stress and lack of rest can affect any disease in a negative manner,” Walker-Oaks says. She recommends getting adequate rest and practicing techniques to help manage your Crohn’s disease.
It's also important to protect your overall health as much as possible. If you're taking medications that suppress your immune system, be sure to avoid contact with people who have colds or other common infections, Samavedy says, because your compromised immune system puts you at risk for serious infection.
Crohn’s disease can be unpredictable, but take comfort in knowing there are steps you can take to minimize flares when they occur. Stay in touch with your doctor and follow your treatment plan as directed. Be mindful of your nutrition, make sure you get enough rest, minimize stress, and be diligent when it comes to hygiene. Crohn’s disease symptoms can worsen if you neglect any of these areas of general health.