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$Title{What Causes Ileitis?}
$Subject{ileitis causes treatment Digestive System stressful swell swelling
intestine intestines crohn crohn's disease}
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Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


What Causes Ileitis?


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QUESTION:  I suffer with ileitis, and am becoming a nervous wreck.  I don't
know where to turn for answers I must have.  Is anxiety causing my disease?
Do you think tranquilizers or even a psychiatrist could help?  Please answer
these questions for me.

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ANSWER:  The exact cause of ileitis is still not clear, although the
possibility of a viral infection or changes in the body's immune system are
being considered.  There is no evidence, however, that emotional factors cause
the disease, although they most certainly may result from the difficulties and
worries that this ailment provokes.  In addition, it is probable that
stressful situations in your life may cause a flare up of your condition, but
this must be distinguished from its underlying cause.  Tranquilizers can be
helpful at such moments, as they help you contend with the stress and can
minimize the reactions, both mental and physical, but the medicines are not
required for all patients and should be taken only with your physician's
knowledge and counsel.  Emotional support is very important to anyone ill with
a severe disease, particularly one as distressful as ileitis, but such help
does not necessarily require professional psychotherapy or psychiatric help.
Your own family doctor with experience in the care and treatment of your
illness, can offer you a great deal of support and help during trying times.
However, if your emotional upset is severe and is getting you down, a
psychiatrist can be most helpful, particularly if he or she has experience in
dealing with patients suffering from ileitis, and when cooperation with your
family doctor is maintained and assured.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.