Can Alcohol Cause a Crohn's Flare-Up?

Some of the most common causes of Crohn’s flare-ups include:

• Smoking
• Alcohol
• Stress
• Antibiotics
• Not taking your medications as prescribed
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as aspirin, naproxen, or ibuprofen
• Excessive consumption of foods that your intestines cannot tolerate
• Complications of Crohn’s, such as: 
  • Fissure
  • Fistula
  • Stricture
  • Abscess

Crohn’s flare-ups usually last several days and go away on their own. In some cases, however, a flare-up may progress and cause complications that require surgery.

Symptoms of a Crohn’s flare-up may include:

• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhea
• Bowel movement urgency
• Nausea
• Loss of appetite
• Fatigue

Other less common but warning signs of a flare-up include:

• Bloating
• Vomiting
• Rectal bleeding
• Incontinence

Frequent flare-ups can cause intestinal damage and complications such as:

• Intestinal obstruction
• Anemia
• Bone loss

As soon as you notice signs of a Crohn’s flare-up, it is important to take steps to manage the condition:

• Diet: 
  • Opt for bland foods such as:
    • Bananas
    • White bread
    • White rice
    • Applesauce
    • Smooth peanut butter
    • Potatoes without skin
    • Steamed fish
  • Avoid foods such as:
    • Raw fruits and vegetables
    • Greasy, fried foods
    • Coffee and other caffeinated foods or drinks
• Stress management: Since stress can trigger a flare-up, try to reduce stress by getting enough sleep and practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, yoga, or meditation. Even low-intensity aerobic exercise and journaling can help you manage or reduce symptoms.
• Over-the-counter (OTC) medications: OTC medications can provide relief from some Crohn’s symptoms. For example, antidiarrheal medications can help reduce the frequency of diarrhea, and pain medication such as acetaminophen, can help alleviate abdominal pain. Ask your doctor about whether these medications are safe to take.  

Sometimes, a flare-up can lead to serious complications. Seek medical help right away if you experience symptoms such as:

• Discharge of pus or blood from the anus
• Lump or swelling around the anus or at the edge of the rectum
• Nausea, vomiting, or constipation
• Severe abdominal pain
• Painful bowel movements
• Fever