Crohn's Disease During Holiday Stress: Managing Flares When Family Gathers

The holidays are a time for family, celebration, and plenty of good food, but for people living with Crohn’s disease, this season can also bring challenges. Stress, travel, and changes in diet or routine can trigger uncomfortable symptoms or flare-ups just when you want to relax and enjoy time with loved ones.

At Bay Area Gastroenterology Associates, LLC, in Trinity, Florida, we understand how unpredictable Crohn’s disease can be. That’s why Dr. Patel and his team created this guide to help you manage flare-ups during the busy holiday season. 

How holiday stress affects Crohn’s disease

If you’re feeling the holiday stress, you’re far from alone. According to the American Psychological Association, nine out of ten Americans get stressed during the holidays. 

Stress doesn’t cause Crohn’s disease, but it can worsen symptoms. During the holidays, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by travel plans, family dynamics, crowded schedules, and food temptations. 

Your body responds to stress by releasing hormones that can trigger inflammation and affect digestion, both of which may contribute to a flare.

Common symptoms that can worsen during stressful times include:

• Abdominal pain or cramping
• Bloating and gas
• Diarrhea
• Fatigue
• Loss of appetite

In addition to physical symptoms, all of the added stress (and worsened symptoms) can impact your mental health, too. 

Tips for managing Crohn’s disease during the holidays

Whether you’re traveling or staying home for the holidays, these tips can help you manage Crohn’s disease. 

1. Plan your meals ahead of time

If you’re attending family gatherings or eating away from home:

• Bring a dish you know is safe for your digestive system 
• Avoid known trigger foods, such as high-fat, spicy, or high-fiber dishes
• Eat smaller portions throughout the day to avoid overloading your system

Don’t be afraid to ask the host about the menu and servings, which can help alleviate some stress of not knowing if there will be any “safe” foods for you.

2. Stick to your usual routine

Holiday schedules often disrupt normal eating, sleeping, and medication times. Try to maintain your usual routine as much as possible. 

Bring your medications, hydration supplies, and any dietary staples with you when traveling.

3. Manage stress before it builds up

Find time each day for stress-relieving activities, which can be anything that helps you feel calm. Good ideas include deep breathing, meditation, gentle exercise, coloring, reading, or even a short walk. 

If family gatherings tend to get tense, break for a few minutes to regroup. Protecting your emotional well-being can help prevent your digestive system from reacting to stress.

4. Stay hydrated

Dehydration can worsen Crohn’s symptoms if diarrhea is present. Keep water with you and sip regularly throughout the day. 

If you’re traveling by plane, remember that cabin air can dehydrate you more quickly than usual. Sip on water throughout the flight, but avoid any in-flight alcoholic beverages. Alcohol can trigger a flare-up in some people. 

5. Prioritize rest

Fatigue can be an early warning sign of a flare. Make sleep a priority, even during busy family visits. A rested body manages inflammation and stress far more effectively than an exhausted one.

6. Avoid alcohol and caffeine triggers

Both alcohol and caffeine can irritate the digestive tract and lead to dehydration. If you do drink, limit yourself and follow each alcoholic beverage with water. Try herbal teas or sparkling water.

7. Know when to call us 

If your symptoms worsen or don’t improve with your usual management strategies, don’t wait until after the holidays to seek care. The Bay Area Gastroenterology Associates team can adjust your treatment plan or prescribe medication to help manage a flare.

To schedule an appointment, call us at  727-372-4500 or book online.