Regional Enteritis is an inflammatory disease effecting the lower part of the small bowel. Many of these cases are young people between twenty and thirty years of age. The true cause of this inflammation is unknown at present. The walls of the small bowel become greatly thickened and swollen, and abscess develop which may bore completely through the intestinal wall.

The affected part of the bowel is no longer elastic and flexible, and the inner becomes so constricted that food has great difficulty in passing through the bowel. The patient suffers from cramps in the abdomen and may have from three to five loose stools a day, as well as mild fever, lack of appetite, and some loss of weight, depending on how far the disease may have progressed. The diagnosis is usually made by X-ray.

Regional Enteritis Treatment:

During the acute stage it is wise for the patient to remain in bed. He should be given a bland diet and also extra multi-vitamins. Most doctors use some belladona product, such as Donnatal, three or four times a day. After the acute stage has passed, the patient should have a restful vacation, preferably about three months or more. He should avoid long working hours, fatigue, and emotional stress.

Many patients benefit by the use of steroids and ACTH, particularly during the inflammatory time of the disease. Surgery may be needed, particularly if there is intestinal obstruction, fistula, or abscess. But unless some crisis occurs, medical treatment is best.