In short,
- Infusion therapy helps manage Crohn’s disease symptoms and improve quality of life.
- Your first infusion includes preparation, administration, and post-treatment monitoring.
- Staying consistent with infusions supports long-term remission and symptom control.
When determining the best Crohn’s disease treatment, infusion therapy often plays an important role. This approach delivers medication directly into your bloodstream, allowing it to bypass the digestive system. It’s especially beneficial for patients who don’t absorb oral medications well.
This guide explains what to expect during your first infusion appointment and how to prepare for the process.
Understanding Crohn’s Disease and Infusion Therapy
What is Crohn’s Disease?
Crohn’s disease is a chronic inflammatory bowel condition that can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract, most commonly the small intestine and colon.
According to the Mayo Clinic, symptoms can include abdominal pain, diarrhea, fatigue, weight loss, and malnutrition. The condition requires ongoing management to prevent flare-ups and maintain remission.
Why Infusion Therapy May Be Recommended
Infusion therapy is often part of the best Crohn’s disease treatment plan when oral medications are not effective or tolerated. The biologic infusion medication for Crohn’s disease targets specific proteins in the immune system that cause inflammation.
Delivering these medications intravenously ensures the medicine reaches its target efficiently, helping control inflammation and maintain remission.
Preparing for Your First Infusion Appointment
Before your first appointment, your care team will conduct a pre-infusion assessment. This may include reviewing your medical history, checking current medications, and ordering blood tests to ensure your body is ready for infusion therapy.
In some cases, a tuberculosis (TB) screening may be required prior to starting certain biologics, as recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
What to Bring
To make your visit comfortable and efficient:
- Bring a list of all medications and allergies.
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing.
- Bring reading material or another quiet activity for relaxation.
Day-Before Preparation
Good hydration and rest can help make your infusion easier. Drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol and excessive caffeine, and get a full night’s sleep.
What Happens During the Infusion Process
Arrival and Check-In
Plan to arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled time. The clinical staff will confirm your information, review the procedure, and answer any questions.
Infusion Administration
A nurse will place an IV line, usually in your arm or hand. The infusion medication for Crohn’s disease is administered slowly over one to three hours, depending on the specific drug. During this time, you can read, listen to music, or relax. Your vital signs will be checked regularly to ensure safety.
Monitoring and Comfort
Your care team will monitor you for any side effects, such as mild itching or flushing. Most patients tolerate infusions well and experience no complications. Alert the nurse immediately if you feel dizzy, short of breath, or develop a rash.
After the Infusion
Once the infusion is complete, you will typically remain for about 30 minutes so staff can observe you for any immediate reactions. The IV line will be removed, and a bandage applied.
You’ll receive aftercare instructions, which may include how to monitor the IV site and what to do if mild redness or tenderness occurs.
Potential Side Effects
Most side effects are minor and temporary. Common symptoms can include fatigue, mild headache, or slight nausea.
More serious but rare reactions include allergic responses or infection risk. Report any unusual symptoms to your doctor as soon as possible.
Follow-Up Care
You will be scheduled for future infusions to maintain consistent medication levels. The timing of infusions varies by medication but often occurs every six to eight weeks.
Regular follow-up appointments and lab work help your physician track your progress and adjust your best Crohn’s disease treatment plan as needed.
Staying in Remission with Infusion Therapy
Adhering to Your Treatment Schedule
Consistency is key to achieving and maintaining remission. Attend every infusion as scheduled, and communicate openly with your gastroenterology team about any new symptoms or side effects. Missing appointments can lead to flare-ups and reduced medication effectiveness.
Lifestyle Support for Crohn’s Management
Alongside infusion therapy, certain lifestyle habits can support your digestive health. Eat a balanced diet rich in lean proteins, fruits, and vegetables. Stay hydrated and engage in gentle physical activity, as tolerated.
Managing stress through rest, mindfulness, or light exercise can also help reduce inflammation and promote well-being.
Recognizing Flare-Ups
Even with effective infusion therapy, flare-ups can occur. Watch for increased abdominal pain, frequent diarrhea, fatigue, or unintended weight loss. Report these symptoms promptly to your gastroenterologist so your treatment plan can be adjusted if necessary. Early intervention helps prevent complications and supports long-term stability.
When to Seek Professional Care for Crohn’s Disease
If you suspect your current best Crohn’s disease treatment isn’t controlling your symptoms, or if you have concerns about your response to infusion therapy, schedule a professional evaluation. Seek immediate care if you experience severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, bloody stools, or fever.
Best Crohn’s Disease Treatment in Brooklyn, OH
At North Shore Gastroenterology, our team of experienced specialists provides advanced care for inflammatory bowel diseases, including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. We offer comprehensive diagnostics, infusion therapy, and individualized treatment plans to help patients achieve and maintain remission.
If you’re ready to begin your infusion therapy or want to learn more about the best Crohn’s disease treatment options available, we’re here to help. Schedule an online appointment or call (440) 808-1212 today to begin your personalized evaluation and get back to feeling your best.