Crohn’s disease can affect facial appearance in several ways, often due to the disease itself or as a result of treatments. One common issue is facial swelling, which can occur during disease flare-ups. Inflammation in the body, particularly in the gastrointestinal tract, can lead to fluid retention and swelling in various parts of the body, including the face. This might manifest as puffiness, especially around the cheeks, eyes, or jawline. Swelling can also be a side effect of medications such as corticosteroids (like prednisone), which are commonly prescribed to manage inflammation in Crohn’s disease. Long-term use of these medications can cause “moon face,” a round, puffy appearance due to fat redistribution and fluid retention.
In addition, weight loss from Crohn’s disease, especially during flare-ups, can result in a thinner, more gaunt appearance in the face. This can be exacerbated by malnutrition, which is common in those with severe Crohn’s disease who experience symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, and poor nutrient absorption.
Some individuals may also develop skin issues like rashes or ulcers, which can affect the face, especially around the mouth and nose. These conditions can further alter the facial appearance. It’s also worth noting that, as seen in the experiences shared by others with Crohn’s, medications like biologics (e.g., Rinvoq, Remicade) or treatments for complications like infections can cause additional side effects, potentially affecting the skin or causing facial redness, hives, or other dermatological symptoms.
Overall, while Crohn’s disease itself primarily affects the digestive system, its systemic impacts and treatments can result in noticeable changes to facial appearance, from swelling and skin issues to weight changes.
Managing a Crohn’s flare-up can feel overwhelming, but incorporating these key strategies can help alleviate symptoms and improve well-being.
1. Medication and Treatment
Medications like biologics (Remicade, Humira, Stelara) are essential for controlling inflammation during a flare. Starting medication early can prevent long-term damage. Work closely with your GI specialist to find the best treatment plan for you.
2. Diet Adjustments
While diet can’t cure Crohn’s, it can reduce flare-up severity. Many find relief with a low-residue diet to ease digestive stress. Identifying and avoiding trigger foods, such as dairy or gluten, can help. Ensure you’re getting enough calories, especially if you’re losing weight; consider nutritional shakes if solid foods are difficult to digest.
3. Stress Management
Stress can trigger flare-ups, so managing it is vital. Regular exercise, yoga, mindfulness, and deep breathing can help reduce stress. Emotional support from loved ones or online communities can also provide comfort during tough times.
4. Hydration and Rest
Stay hydrated to combat dehydration, especially during diarrhea. Electrolyte drinks or water are great options. Prioritize rest, as fatigue is common during flare-ups. Give yourself time to recover and avoid overexertion.
5. Mental Health and Acceptance
It’s normal to feel frustrated or anxious. Seek therapy if needed and practice self-compassion. Shifting your mindset to accept the disease as part of your journey can help you manage emotionally and physically.
By combining medication, diet, stress management, hydration, and mental health support, you can better navigate Crohn’s flare-ups and regain a sense of control over your health.
When I was 105 pounds, battling for my life after a severe Crohn’s disease flare-up and bowel surgery, I never imagined I’d one day be stepping onto the podium at jiu-jitsu tournaments. Fast forward to 2024, and not only am I competing, but I’ve also earned four podium finishes in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) tournaments this year. It hasn’t been easy, and the challenges of Crohn’s still weigh heavily on me, but these victories mean so much more because of what I’ve overcome.
Let me walk you through this incredible journey, tournament by tournament.
JJ World League Dallas X Gi – September 2024
My competitive season started strong in September at the JJ World League Dallas X Gi tournament. I competed in the 154-pound and under division with a seven-man bracket—larger than many I’ve seen at this level. I won two matches back-to-back, both in under a minute, to take gold.
In the semi-finals, I faced Angel Mota and secured a submission victory with an armbar from a triangle position. In the finals, I went up against Jourdon Gintzler, finishing the match with a triangle choke. The thrill of stepping onto the top of the podium in such a competitive bracket was exhilarating. Moments like these remind me how far I’ve come since my surgery.
AGF Texas State Championships – October 2024
The next month, I entered the American Grappling Federation (AGF) Texas State Jiu-Jitsu Championships. Competing in both gi and no-gi divisions on the same day was an enormous test of endurance. For someone with Crohn’s, where energy is already a scarce resource, this was a mental and physical battle.
In the nine-man no-gi bracket, I earned a bronze medal—an achievement I’m particularly proud of because I primarily train gi. Competing against Ramiro Castillo, I lost via submission in one match but bounced back with a solid win against Jojo Wankombe. The no-gi competition pushed me to my limits and proved that my training and guard game could hold up, even outside my comfort zone.
In the five-man gi bracket, I claimed silver. I had a strong start with a submission win against Angel Mota (our second matchup after JJWL). However, the finals were tough. My opponent, Ramiro Castillo, secured a lapel choke after a scramble, a loss I attribute to Crohn’s-related fatigue. I didn’t weigh in at the maximum limit for my division, and my opponent was physically larger, which added to the challenge. Still, I was proud of my performance and the lessons I took away from the day.
JJ World League IV Texas Gi Finals – November 2024
In November, I returned to the JJ World League for the IV Texas Gi Finals. This time, I competed in a six-man bracket and walked away with silver after three intense matches.
The semi-finals were a grueling test against Ryan Bao, one of the toughest opponents I’ve faced to date. Bao, fresh off an impressive ADCC showing earlier in the year, forced me to dig deep. I won by referee decision after a tightly contested match.
In the finals, I faced Brave Mays, an extremely technical opponent. He controlled much of the match, keeping me in side control and half guard. Down in points, I focused on defending submissions and looking for a gap to counter. Unfortunately, the opportunity never came, and I lost by points. Mays entered the match fresh after a bye, while I had just battled Bao, which added to the challenge. Still, earning second place in this competitive bracket was another milestone for me.
The Challenges of Competing with Crohn’s
Crohn’s disease isn’t just a condition; it’s a constant reminder that my body operates differently from most people’s. Competing in jiu-jitsu is about more than just strength or technique for me—it’s about managing energy, maintaining a clean diet, and adapting my game to suit my physical limitations.
Because of chronic fatigue, I’ve developed a guard-based style that conserves energy. Playing from the bottom lets me minimize physical exertion while looking for opportunities to sweep or submit. But even with this strategy, competing in multiple divisions (gi and no-gi) on the same day is incredibly demanding.
My diet also plays a critical role in my preparation. Unlike most athletes who can load up on carbs or eat freely after weigh-ins, I have to stick to foods I know my body can tolerate. Even minor slip-ups can drain my energy or cause severe discomfort during competition.
What’s Next?
This season has taught me so much, not just as an athlete but as someone living with Crohn’s. From my first tournament win at JJWL to the intense matches at AGF and my battles at the Texas Finals, every step of this journey has been a reminder of what’s possible when you refuse to give up.
I owe so much to my coaches, Isaac Fox and Blas Carrasco, and my team at Sloth BJJ in Euless, Texas. Starting jiu-jitsu in July 2023 was one of the best decisions of my life. It’s not just about the medals or the podium finishes—it’s about proving to myself that Crohn’s doesn’t define me.
If you want to follow my journey, check out my YouTube channel,Conquer Crohn’s, or my Instagram, where I share more about my training, competitions, and life with Crohn’s.
Let’s keep pushing boundaries, one match at a time.
The following is a viral post I came across on r/CrohnsDisease. Take a look for yourself.
My doctor and his network (DHAT) is a fraud, what should I do?
I have a strong belief that my doctor and the other doctors in his network are faking reviews aggressively. I spot shady businesses like this all the time, but it hits close to home when it affects my health and the health of others.
After mild suspicion, I had an assistant of mine spend a couple of hours going through a list of local GI doctors, recording their Google reviews and then grouping them based on whether they were in the same monopolistic network or not.
Here’s some data of my doctor and his local network GI Alliance which includes DHAT (Digestive Health Associates of Texas) and TDDC (Texas Digestive Disease Consultants).
Person Name
Number of Reviews
Rating
Priya Rangasamy
131
4.7
Vinay Antin
118
4.9
Cherian Abraham
108
4.9
Balu Chandra
185
4.8
Eric Hill
210
4.9
Kevin Ho
88
4.6
Mark Murray
144
4.9
David Hall
135
4.9
Thomas Lyles
267
5
Jeffrey Mills
142
4.9
James Nackley
256
4.7
Bhavin Patel
1
5
Jessica Shah
222
4.9
Andrew Shea
169
4.9
Jay Yepuri
217
4.6
John Baker
N/A
N/A
Moustafa Youssef
145
4.8
Vineel Kankanala
28
5
Randal Macurak
183
4.9
Armond G. Schwartz
155
4.9
Prashant Kedia
275
4.8
Walter Young
44
4.8
Paul Tarnasky
125
4.9
Roy Joseph
185
4.8
Robert Anderson
64
4.7
Angela Carollo
79
4.8
Sarita Gayle
42
4.8
Hemangi Kale
43
4.4
Elizabeth Odstrcil
49
4.8
Rushikesh H
43
4.9
Jack An
42
5
Kendall Brown
81
4.9
Lillienne Chan
48
4.7
David Magee
127
4.8
Alexander Mantas
482
4.9
Michael Russo
201
4.9
Noel Snowberger
119
4.6
Annette Whitney
44
4.6
Lisa Alvarez
122
4.9
Sami Arslanlar
130
4.9
James Hakert
67
4.5
Samar Harris
7
5
Viralkumar Patel
109
5
Son Do
181
4.6
Candice Jantz
150
4.8
Adnan S.
128
4.9
Amit Masand
175
4.9
Sindhu Abraham
255
4.9
Stuart Akerman
397
4.9
Kenneth Brown
430
4.8
Matthew Eidem
373
4.8
Arshad Malik
281
4.7
Michael Weisberg
50
4.6
Brent Keith
57
4.9
Kenneth Yang
309
4.9
Virat R. Dave
580
5
Josh O. George
247
5
Kumar Gutta
263
4.9
Brian K. Cooley
179
4.8
AVG
163.30
4.83
MEDIAN
138.50
4.9
Here are doctors that are not in DHAT and not in TDDC.
Before gathering this, I noticed some red flags that led me to want to investigate. Background: I’ve worked in digital marketing for more than half my life so I believe I’m better-than-average when it comes to spotting suspicious reviews.
My doctor has about 400 reviews when other locally recommended doctors average 27, median 9.
They can get a lot of reviews if they ask every patient for one, but I’ve never been solicited by the doctor to leave a review. This is standard practice for any business looking to improve reviews. Automated texting systems are very popular. I’ve been with the doctor for 3 years so there’s been lots of opportunity to solicit. Not once.
I recently had another bad experience with him that made me question things, I looked online, and couldn’t believe how minimal complaints were.
I wrote a 1 or 2-star review (which I since deleted since discovering the bigger picture and rethinking next steps) and no one reached out to rectify it or anything, which is very common for a business who is trying to reach/maintain 4.9 stars
Furthermore, none of the Google reviews get replies. They likely just buy the reviews and forget about the rest of the picture, because they can be bought on the dark market for $5 a pop.
4.8-4.9 stars is relatively unattainable for businesses without a solid flow of happy customers paired with a strong collection via automated flow. Even the best businesses in the world struggle to reach 4.5 stars because it doesn’t take much to get a bad review. People leave bad reviews for businesses because they were having a bad day and that business was just unlucky enough to be apart of it.
Anyways, sorry for the long thread, but what are your guys thoughts? Forget about it and get a new doctor? Should I be reporting this to someone? Google won’t/doesn’t care but I’m wondering about bigger picture entities I should inform like governing agencies.
I just can’t imagine how many people were fooled. It is very difficult to find a GI outside of the monopoly because of how thick their network is, and every GI is boosted with reviews.
Patients across forums like Reddit’s r/Dallas and r/CrohnsDisease have raised significant concerns about GI Alliance, which owns major gastroenterology networks like Digestive Health Associates of Texas (DHAT) and Texas Digestive Disease Consultants (TDDC). Here are seven key issues voiced by those affected:
1. Allegations of Fake Google Reviews
Multiple users suspect that GI Alliance doctors have inflated online ratings through fake reviews. Patients pointed out that many GI Alliance providers have unusually high review counts and ratings (averaging 4.8–4.9 stars with hundreds of reviews), far exceeding unaffiliated doctors in the same area. Critics claim these manipulated reviews obscure the quality of care and mislead new patients.
2. Monopolistic Practices in DFW
Patients complain about the near-total dominance of GI Alliance in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, where over 90% of GI doctors reportedly belong to the network. This lack of competition leaves patients with limited options for care and difficulty finding independent providers.
3. Restrictive Referral and Non-Compete Policies
Several patients shared experiences of being “locked in” with a specific doctor due to GI Alliance policies. Switching to another doctor within the network reportedly requires the approval of the initial provider, further limiting patient choice.
4. Lack of Transparency and Accountability
Some patients noted the absence of responsiveness to negative reviews or complaints. A lack of replies to Google reviews, combined with the alleged purchasing of fake reviews, suggests that patient feedback is not a priority for GI Alliance.
5. Overemphasis on Profits over Patient Care
Critics argue that GI Alliance’s private equity backing, specifically by Apollo Global Management, has shifted the focus to maximizing profits. Patients claim this prioritization of revenue has negatively impacted care quality, with instances of unnecessary tests, referrals to in-house labs, and profit-driven decision-making.
6. Difficulty Accessing Appointments and Continuity of Care
Users highlighted the challenge of securing timely appointments with GI Alliance doctors, even for urgent conditions. Additionally, when doctors stop accepting certain insurance plans or leave the network, patients are left struggling to find alternatives within the monopolized system.
7. Mixed Experiences with Individual Doctors
While some patients praised their GI Alliance doctors for providing excellent care, others reported poor experiences, including dismissive attitudes, unnecessary treatments, or subpar diagnostic work. The discrepancy between individual reviews and actual experiences further fuels skepticism about the authenticity of the network’s ratings.
These recurring issues suggest a broader need for transparency, ethical practices, and patient-focused care within GI Alliance and its affiliated networks. For patients seeking gastroenterological care, these concerns highlight the importance of thorough research and consideration before choosing a provider.
Chromofungin, also known as chromogranin A-derived peptide, is a protein fragment that has been studied for its potential anti-inflammatory properties. While research on Chromofungin specifically for Crohn’s disease is limited, its general mechanism of action could provide some insights into its potential benefits:
Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Chromofungin has shown anti-inflammatory properties in various studies. Since Crohn’s disease is characterized by chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, Chromofungin could help reduce this inflammation, potentially alleviating some symptoms.
Immune System Modulation: Crohn’s disease involves an overactive immune response. Chromofungin might modulate the immune system, helping to balance the immune response and reduce the pathological inflammation associated with Crohn’s disease.
Gut Barrier Protection: Maintaining the integrity of the gut barrier is crucial in Crohn’s disease. Chromofungin could potentially help in strengthening the gut barrier, preventing the translocation of bacteria and toxins that exacerbate the disease.
Antimicrobial Properties: Some research suggests that Chromofungin has antimicrobial effects. This could be beneficial in Crohn’s disease, where an imbalance in gut microbiota (dysbiosis) is often observed.
While these potential benefits are promising, more specific research is needed to confirm the efficacy and safety of Chromofungin in the treatment of Crohn’s disease. It’s important for patients to consult with their healthcare provider before considering new treatments.
In the continuous quest for effective treatments for chronic conditions, a new contender has emerged in the arena of regenerative medicine: BPC-157. This synthetic peptide, known for its healing properties, particularly in the gastrointestinal tract, has sparked interest in the medical community, especially concerning Crohn’s disease, a challenging and often debilitating inflammatory bowel disease.
What is BPC-157?
BPC-157, a Body Protection Compound, is a sequence of amino acids synthetically produced based on a protective protein found in the human stomach. Over the years, it has gained attention for its remarkable regenerative properties, especially in animal and in vitro studies. Its potential roles include accelerating wound healing, promoting tissue repair, and reducing inflammation, making it a point of interest for researchers looking at gastrointestinal diseases.
BPC-157 and Crohn’s Disease
Crohn’s disease is characterized by chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, leading to symptoms like abdominal pain, severe diarrhea, fatigue, weight loss, and malnutrition. The healing and anti-inflammatory properties of BPC-157 could theoretically offer relief and recovery for those suffering from Crohn’s.
Current Research
Most of the studies on BPC-157 have been limited to animal models or conducted in vitro. These studies have shown promising results, such as reduced inflammation and facilitated healing of intestinal lesions, which are common in Crohn’s disease. However, the leap from animal models to human applications is significant, and there’s a scarcity of clinical trials on humans to validate these findings.
Safety and Regulations
One of the critical aspects of considering BPC-157 as a treatment option is its regulatory status. Currently, BPC-157 is not approved by major regulatory bodies like the FDA for human use. This lack of approval raises questions about its safety and efficacy for human use, particularly long-term.
Consulting Healthcare Professionals
For individuals with Crohn’s disease, any new treatment, including BPC-157, should be discussed with a healthcare professional. They can provide guidance considering the current research, individual health status, and potential risks associated with unregulated treatments.
Conclusion
While BPC-157 presents an intriguing possibility for aiding in Crohn’s disease treatment, the road to its acceptance in standard medical practice is long and requires more rigorous clinical trials. For now, it remains a subject of research and curiosity rather than a recommended treatment. As with any emerging therapy, staying informed and consulting with healthcare providers is crucial for those seeking new avenues to manage their health conditions.
Disclaimer
This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional for medical advice and treatment.
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The relationship between Crohn’s disease and mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and OCD is multifaceted. Firstly, it’s established that living with Crohn’s disease can increase a person’s risk of developing depression or other mental health conditions. However, there is no evidence suggesting that depression can cause Crohn’s disease. Depression and anxiety are notably common among people who have Crohn’s disease. The most prevalent psychiatric disorders in inflammatory bowel disease, which includes Crohn’s disease, are depression and anxiety. There is also some evidence suggesting an increased occurrence of other disorders like bipolar disorder in these patients.
The connection between Crohn’s disease and mental health issues is partly explained by the brain-gut link through the vagus nerve, where signals run in both directions. This connection is significant in understanding the susceptibility to developing mental disorders in people with inflammatory bowel disease.
Regarding the role of serotonin, it has been found that serotonin levels are elevated in patients with Crohn’s disease. This neurotransmitter, predominantly produced by gut enterochromaffin cells, is crucial in gastrointestinal functions, including motility, sensitivity, secretion, and the inflammatory response. It has been suggested that a high level of serotonin could be partly responsible for the inflammation in chronic gastrointestinal diseases like Crohn’s and may even trigger flare-ups. The gut microbiota dysbiosis and dysfunction of the serotonergic system contribute to inflammatory bowel disease, including Crohn’s disease, indicating that gut bacteria can induce serotonin. Serotonin has a strong impact on the development of intestinal inflammation, altering the body’s ability to recycle damaged compounds within cells, a process known as autophagy.
Sources
“Inflammatory bowel disease is a group of chronic medical conditions comprising Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis that involves increased frequency of mental disorders.” PubMed Central, National Institutes of Health, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6993663/.
“The gut microbiota dysbiosis and dysfunction of the serotonergic system contribute to inflammatory bowel disease, including Crohn’s disease.” Nature, www.nature.com/articles/s41385-020-00363-4.
Magazines and health professionals have suggested limiting red meat in your diet for a long time. It’s also been discussed often in the IBD space that red meat can be tough to digest and should be avoid. However, I noticed people say steak doesn’t bother their digestion. So I had to run a survey.
82 of the 93 respondents said chicken and turkey caused less pain than red meats did. That equates to a whopping 87% – one of our least divided surveys ever.
Of the 13% that said the meats digested similar, one said the rarer the meat, the easier it was to digest. My guess is those that find them similar, they are in remission or closer to it.
Remember, even in remission, it’s important to stick with safe foods. Even thought your gut is stronger now, abusing it can return you to your old days and it will. It happens all the time. People with IBD for over 25 years end up in the ER and when questioned on their diet, they say “what diet?”
