Patients should become educated through discussions with physicians, information from reputable organizations and other patients who have faced similar circumstances. Some patients with Crohn's disease of the large intestine need to have their entire colon removed in an operation called a colectomy. This opening, called a stoma or ostomy, is where waste exits the body. The stoma is about the size of a quarter is usually located in the right lower part of the abdomen near the beltline. A pouch is worn over the opening to collect waste, and the patient empties the pouch as needed.
Most colectomy patients go on to live normal, active lives.
The importance of diet has been a source of confusion among patients. No particular food has ever been implicated in causing Crohn's disease. Patients should eat a nutritious, well balanced diet. Diet may have to be restricted based on symptoms or complications. Some patients may not tolerate milk or milk products.