The symptoms and effects of Crohn’s disease aren’t just tough to deal with physically. They can change how you feel about your body — and in turn, how you feel about yourself.
Almost 70 percent of people with an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) like Crohn’s say that their condition has negatively affected their body image. While body image issues can come up for anyone with Crohn’s, the risk of experiencing them is higher for women, people who have undergone surgery, and those who are using steroids.
“These sorts of concerns are very real and common,” says GI psychologist Megan Riehl, PsyD, an associate professor of medicine at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor and board member of the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation.
What’s more, they can have far-reaching effects for your mental health and your relationships. But with some effort, it’s possible to shift your perspective. Here’s a look at the ways that Crohn’s might be impacting your body image and expert-recommended strategies that can help you feel more confident.
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