More than a million Americans suffer from Crohn’s disease, a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that causes inflammation in the digestive tract. There’s no cure for Crohn’s disease, but it can be managed, and the support of loved ones can make a big difference.
When you’re nearby, it’s convenient to provide in-person support, but what can you do if your loved one is farther away at work, school, or simply living elsewhere?
Our team at Digestive Disease Specialists in Moline, Illinois, and Bettendorf, Iowa, offers patient-centered treatment for Crohn’s disease along with support for patients and their families. Here, learn what you can do to support your loved one no matter where they are.
Before you can support a loved one with a chronic condition, it’s important to learn all you can about that condition. Learning about the symptoms, triggers, and the way the disease affects your loved one’s life and well-being is essential for providing them with compassionate, understanding, nonjudgmental support.
Crohn’s disease can cause symptoms like cramps, diarrhea, fatigue, and difficult-to-control urges to move your bowels. Not surprisingly, it can take a toll on a person's physical health and emotional wellness.
Understanding the basics of Crohn’s disease and staying on top of recent news developments helps you be a better advocate for your loved one and makes it easier to practice patience when interacting with them.
Staying in touch is important wherever your loved one may be, but it’s especially critical when they’re away from home and may feel isolated and unsupported. Let your loved one know you’re always available via text, call, video chat, or whatever works best for them.
At the same time, don’t crowd your loved one or be too insistent. Respect their boundaries, but do strive to keep in touch regularly, even if it’s just to send a brief text so they know they’re not alone.
Crohn’s affects everyone differently in terms of physical symptoms, severity, and emotional impact. Note your loved one’s unique journey, and tune your support to their needs.
For instance, if your loved one is in the middle of a flare-up, they may or may not feel like talking about it. Provide support, but avoid offering too much advice since you might come off as being intrusive or bossy.
If your loved one appears to shut down or pull away, don’t take it personally. Instead, focus on doing what you can to help them feel comfortable, whatever that might mean for them.
You might not be physically nearby, but thanks to the internet, you can still find resources to help your loved one. Ask them if they’d like you to look for doctors, pharmacies, or even restaurants with Crohn's-friendly menus.
Look for local and online support groups where your loved one can connect with others who share their needs and frustrations. Offer these suggestions without pushing or pressing your loved one or crossing any boundaries. Be respectful of their comfort level while providing support and encouragement.
Living with Crohn’s disease can be draining, and many people dealing with the disease tend to put their own self-care last on their list of priorities. Encourage your loved one to take time for themselves each day, whether it’s a stress-busting activity like yoga or meditation or a relaxing hobby like reading or listening to music.
Reach out across the miles with care packages containing Crohn’s-friendly snacks, a good book, a box of tea, a soft blanket, or something that supports their favorite hobbies. Finally, remind them that seeking help from a skilled counselor — in person or online — can help them stay motivated while managing their symptoms more effectively.
Our team offers telehealth visits to help your loved one manage their care while they’re away from home. To learn more, book an appointment online or over the phone with Digestive Disease Specialists today.
