Expert, Ongoing Care to Control Crohn’s Disease and Prevent Flare-Ups
Crohn disease is a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that causes chronic inflammation of the digestive tract. It can affect any part of the gut from the mouth to the anus, but most often involves the end of the small intestine and the start of the colon. The inflammation can extend deep into the bowel wall, which sets it apart from ulcerative colitis.
The exact cause is unknown, but Crohn disease develops from an overactive immune response in people with a genetic predisposition, influenced by gut bacteria and environmental factors like smoking. It follows a pattern of flare-ups and remission and needs long-term management.
Common symptoms include persistent diarrhea, abdominal pain and cramping (often in the lower right belly), fatigue, weight loss, and reduced appetite. Some people develop mouth sores, joint pain, or skin problems. Because Crohn disease can cause complications like strictures, fistulas, and abscesses, ongoing symptoms should always be evaluated and monitored by a gastroenterologist.
At Shaya Digestive & Liver Clinic, evaluation begins with a detailed discussion of symptoms, diet, medical history, medications, and lifestyle factors. Diagnostic evaluation may include:
Comprehensive Medical History
Understanding symptom patterns often provides valuable clues.
Blood Testing
Laboratory studies may help identify:
H. pylori Testing
Testing may be recommended when stomach-related symptoms are present.
SIBO Breath Testing
Used to evaluate bacterial overgrowth within the small intestine.
Colonoscopy
May be recommended depending on age, symptoms, family history, and risk factors.
Upper Endoscopy (EGD)
Can help evaluate reflux, gastritis, ulcers, and upper digestive tract disorders.
Dr. Saranya Addepally is a board-certified gastroenterologist with six years of clinical experience, treating a broad range of digestive and liver conditions. She is especially passionate about women’s GI health—areas where patients often feel overlooked or hesitant to seek care.
Her medical journey began in India, where she completed her training before moving to the United States to pursue advanced education in medicine and Gastroenterology at the University of Arkansas.
After several years in practice, she relocated to Houston to continue serving patients in the community. Following two years with a local group, she established her own practice, grounded in the principles and core values she believes are essential to delivering thoughtful, patient-centered care.
Crohn disease is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that can affect any part of the digestive tract, causing inflammation deep in the bowel wall.
Crohn disease can affect any part of the gut and involves the full thickness of the bowel wall. Ulcerative colitis affects only the colon and rectum and stays in the inner lining.
There is no cure yet, but treatment is very effective at controlling inflammation and keeping most people in long-term remission with few symptoms.
Warning signs include worsening diarrhea, more abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, fever, fatigue, and weight loss. Report these to your doctor promptly.
Diet does not cause or cure Crohn disease, but certain foods can worsen symptoms during flares, and good nutrition supports healing and prevents deficiencies.
Many people manage Crohn disease with medication alone, but some need surgery to treat complications like strictures or fistulas. Your doctor will guide you.
Treatment focuses on calming inflammation, healing the bowel, and keeping you in lasting remission. After confirming your diagnosis, your gastroenterologist builds a personalized plan that may include:
At Shaya Digestive & Liver Clinic, we provide:
There is no single “quick fix” for Crohn disease, but most people achieve lasting remission. See a gastroenterologist for ongoing diarrhea, rectal bleeding, weight loss, or severe belly pain. At Shaya Digestive & Liver Clinic we focus on long-term control. To help manage Crohn disease:
Offering Fast Track GI appointments
Specialized Gastroenterology Appointments Within 3–5 Business Days
Customer Support
Online
Customer Support
Online