There's no denying that living with Crohn's is difficult. You have to take medication and occasionally make some inconvenient lifestyle changes. However, it's worth mentioning that most people can live full and active lives.

One of the most important things you need to remember while living with Crohn's disease is that it is not just about your physical body, it is also about the way this disease plays with your emotions, so to stay strong mentally throughout your journey is the key. It requires ongoing work and commitment.

Of course, it may be challenging to cultivate and maintain a strong emotional backbone, especially during flare-ups when it might feel like your body is fighting against you. But, with so many things outside of your control, taking charge of what you can do will feel amazing!

Crohn's disease is an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that affects the gastrointestinal tract.
The end of the small bowel (the ileum) and the beginning of the colon are the most commonly affected areas by Crohn's disease.

When your body is suffering from an infection, inflammation is the body’s immune system’s way of fighting off bacteria and viruses, but usually, when those bacteria and viruses are destroyed, inflammation is automatically 'switched off'. With Crohn’s disease, the inflammation doesn’t switch off, causing further damage to the digestive tract walls.

Crohn’s disease main symptoms include pain, swelling and redness in the digestive tract, which can cause abdominal pain and diarrhea.

Other symptoms can include increased urgency of toilet use, including diarrhea. People with Crohn’s disease can also experience cramping, fatigue, reduced appetite and weight loss. Symptoms come and go over time and the severity differs from person to person. Symptoms may also include blood and mucous in the stool, high temperatures, mouth ulcers and pain or swelling around the anus.

These symptoms can often lead to accidents and leave you feeling uneasy, causing further stress and a reduction in confidence and independence.

When you have Crohn's disease, you may not always have the same symptoms. In fact, you may not have any symptoms at all. When you have no symptoms, you are in clinical remission.

Although the cause of Crohn’s disease is still unknown, several factors likely play a role in its development, including microbiom problems, heredity and a malfunctioning immune system.

Other risk factors for Crohn’s disease can include age, ethnicity, family history, history of smoking, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications.

Some complications that can stem from Crohn’s disease include: ulcers, bowel obstruction, fistulas, malnutrition, colon cancer and blood clots.

Please refer to your GP for more information or to voice any concerns you may have regarding any symptoms and complications associated with Crohn’s disease.

Being prepared is key to avoiding the awkwardness of any accidents that can occur. Being prepared is the difference between living life fully, keeping your independence, and being socially active rather than hiding away and feeling like you’ve lost all control.

When at home, a toilet is often highly accessible, and accidents may be less relevant, but finding a public toilet in time when out and about can be daunting. Check out the national toilet map before going out so you have reassurance on where they are.

To stay fresh and comfy, keep spare, clean underwear and a pack of wipes in your bag. It's also a good idea to keep a plastic bag in your bag for wet or soiled clothing. If you experience heavier soiling or more frequently requiring the toilet, wearing continence products like a liner or adult continence pants can offer security and contain any leaks.

Researchers from all around the world are working hard to discover new therapies for Crohn's disease patients, which is highly encouraging. Experts believe that a new generation of Crohn's disease treatments is on the way.

Although there is no official cure for Crohn’s disease yet, there are lots of measures that can be taken right away to reduce the symptoms:

• Take full control of your diet and nutrition - changing your diet with the guidance of a dietician may have a big impact, and it's especially helpful during flare-ups.
• Boost your body confidence - staying active and participaing in your favorite sports regulary will help to support your body physically and emotionally.
• Be kind to yourself - make a list of 10 qualities you love and appreciate about yourself that have nothing to do with your physical appearance. Place the list somewhere you can see every day.
• Be prepared when going out - use appropriate protection, carry plastic bags and wipes with you and make sure you know where the nearest toilet is.
• Be open with friends and family - although it might be difficult, some people find that discussing their diagnosis provides a feeling of relief.
• Find support - when you are alone, you're more likely to dwell on negative thoughts. You can get support at websites such as IBD Support Australia or Crohn's & Colitis Australia. You can also connect with people who have similar problems and issues by reading blogs or joining Facebook groups.

One person told us that "He deals with a lot of stress and emotions because of having bowel problems, which can contribute to flare-ups." To reduce stressors, he suggests being kind to yourself, meditating, talking with friends, and finding a social outlet.

He also had a special way of looking at this disease, he stated: ”In life, everyone has difficulties. Having this disease wrecks havoc on the body and emotions, but I'm thankful that I have it since I'm well aware that I could have got something a lot worse, such as cancer."

Lastly, before starting any treatments or preventative measures, don't forget to talk to your doctor or a medical professional about your options so they can take your risk factors into account and adjust them to your specific situation and needs.