November 9, 2021 |  written by IVX Health

What to Expect When You’re Diagnosed with Crohn’s Disease


Being diagnosed with a chronic illness like Crohn’s disease can be life-changing – in ways that are often both difficult to swallow but also a relief when finally receiving a concrete diagnosis and therapy plan.  Read on to learn what you can expect when you receive your diagnosis.

A young woman with headphones painting
A young woman with headphones painting

#1: Other Diseases Will Be Ruled Out

There’s no single test for Crohn’s disease, so your diagnosis will come mainly from ruling out other problems like infection and other gastrointestinal disorders.  You’ll probably receive a variety of tests, such as a colonoscopy, biopsy, barium enema, blood tests, stool tests, a CT scan, an MRI, or a set of X-rays called the upper GI series.  A combination of tests gives doctors a more accurate picture of your overall GI health.

#2: You’ll Learn How to Prepare for Your Symptoms

Knowing that you have Crohn’s disease will give you the opportunity to better prepare for those times when symptoms strike at inconvenient times.  Consider putting together a “Crohn’s Survival Kit” for when you’re out and about with the following items:

  • Any prescription medications
  • Over-the-counter anti-diarrheal medication
  • Toilet paper or moist wipes
  • Extra underwear and clothes
  • A list of public restrooms or an app on your phone to help you find one

#3: The Emotional Roller Coaster

Unfortunately, at this point in time, there’s no cure for Crohn’s, so treatment is about managing your symptoms.  Learning you have a condition that you’ll be dealing with for the long-term is not always easy, and it’s OK to feel upset.  You may go through something like the 5 stages of grief, or your path to acceptance may be a little less well-defined.

Either way, take the time to feel what you need to feel.  Talk to your doctor about what physical symptoms to expect, and be honest with your friends and family about what you’re going through.  Here are some other things you can do to help yourself get more comfortable with your diagnosis:

  • Knowledge is Power: Learn about your condition.  Find out what triggers your flare-ups (keep a list in the beginning), and keep a journal of your symptoms so you can pinpoint patterns that help you feel better.
  • Enlist a Team: Your all-star team should include your doctor, a few close friends and family members, and potentially a therapist.  Use this team to help you keep a healthy perspective, a sense of hope, and a sense of humor.
  • Find Community: Knowing your not alone is one of the most powerful ways to help accept your diagnosis.  Ask your doctor for resources, and look to places like the Crohn’s and Colitis Community, which has both online forums as well as local chapters you can join.

Treatment at IVX Health

If biologics like Remicade, Actemra or Orencia  are a part of your chronic illness treatment plan, then consider choosing IVX Health for your ongoing care needs. IVX Health makes it possible to receive your therapy in a comfortable, convenient, and private environment.

With a private suite for every patient, you can watch your favorite Netflix show or movie on the big screen TV in each room, use a laptop or other mobile device to surf the web, or simply hang out with family and friends. We always have chairs for guests, and each center has a family room that is spacious and private if you need to bring your kids to your treatment. We also offer flexible appointment scheduling – including evenings and Saturdays – at any of our convenient locations.

At IVX Health, we truly are invested in helping you live your best life. If you’re ready to experience a new kind of infusion clinic, click here to learn how to move your infusion or injection therapy to IVX Health.