4 Essential Items in My Crohn's Journey

Having Crohn's disease is no easy journey. The endless symptoms and mental battles can be taxing on even the strongest of us. But, as we all do, taking each day 1 moment at a time and remaining steadfast in pushing through gets us through to the next day and the next after that.

As warriors, we do everything we can to survive, and all of us have developed our go-to essential products to use in order to endure tough symptoms. So, I'd like to share with you what products I use, and at this point find essential for anyone who has Crohn's disease.

1. A heating pad for abdominal discomfort and cramping

If you don't use a heating pad to help with abdominal discomfort and cramping, you are missing out. Heat is so helpful when your insides are screaming in pain.

Much like the effect it has during menstrual cramps, the same relief occurs for abdominal spasms and cramping. Whenever I am in a bad flare and need relief from cramping, lying in bed with a heating pad is beyond helpful to bring relief from the pain.

2. A weighted blanket for sleep and anxiety

This is a Godsend. I had never used a weighted blanket until recently and I wish I would have known about this glorious product sooner. Talk about an amazing tool to enhance sleep and in lowering anxiety!

These blankets are designed to help bring calmness over the body and to help you get a better sleep, and lower anxiety and stress levels. Essentially the weight of the blanket creates the sensation of a hug. It is incredibly soothing and really makes a huge difference when compared to a normal blanket. I use the blanket whenever I am in need of a nap or in a bad flare, and I am so thankful for it.

Weighted blankets are actually a bit pricey, but there are affordable ones out there if you do your research. Make sure you read reviews and if you find one that is of good price with good reviews. I would highly suggest purchasing one. I can't get enough of using it!

3. Peppermint essential oil

This has become such an amazing tool that I use to alleviate bloating, nausea, abdominal cramping/spasms, constipation, and diarrhea. Yes, I use this oil to help with all of these things, and I'm just sad I wasn't introduced to using it sooner.

Of course, all essential oils are not made equally. The one I use is pricey and of top-quality therapeutic grade. But, that is why it gives me such stellar results.

If you are looking to find relief from the symptoms listed, I highly recommend getting yourself some therapeutic grade peppermint essential oil, as it has become my little miracle worker. I keep a bottle above my toilet and have one with me in my purse 24/7. Yes, it's that helpful!

4. A Squatty Potty for bathroom ease

I use this product every day. If you haven't tried it, definitely give it a whirl. In my opinion, it really helps ease the experience of having a bowel movement, and in our situation, anything that makes the process easier is a necessity.

The Squatty Potty elevates your legs to create a squatting position making going number 2 a much easier process. Less straining and forcing!

You can easily find them on Amazon and they are not expensive. Definitely get your hands on one, to help with the millions of bathroom trips we constantly take.

And there you have it, four products I find essential at this point in my Crohn's journey. Hope you find some of these helpful. Have you tried any of them? Do you have other must-have items we should know about? If so comment below and tell us your experience!