1. Manage Stress

The diagnosis is shocking, but remember that you are not alone. There are almost 800,000 Americans who have Crohn's disease and live completely normal and manageable lives. You did not do anything that could have caused this to happen to you. Therefore, you can let go of the anxiety and stress that you have put on yourself. Keeping a positive attitude and practicing breathing or relaxation exercises will help greatly in lowering your stress levels. 

2. Know Your Triggers

Take notice of what foods seem to make the Crohn's symptoms worse. For some people this could be foods high in fiber, spicy foods or dairy. Gassy foods such as beans, cauliflower and cabbage should also be avoided while the condition is active. 

3. Break the Barriers

Get support from friends, family or even join a local support group. Stay encouraged that there are medications out there already such as Adalimumab (Humira) that act as a therapy to treat Crohn's. 

If you have an ostomy, our waterproof ostomy protector can help make taking daily showers feel normal again. You can even swim with these protectors while keeping your ostomy dry. Find a local ostomy support group! 

One of the best things you can do is be active in your treatment. Living with Crohn's disease can become totally manageable if you put your mind to it.