Crohn’s disease is a chronic (long-term) form of irritable bowel disease (IBD). This condition causes inflammation and irritation of the digestive tract that further leads to troubling symptoms. This condition is also known as enteritis or ileitis.
The inflammation caused by Crohn’s disease can spread further to other areas of the digestive tract and deeper into the layers of the bowel. Crohn’s disease can cause life-threatening complications if left untreated.
Crohn’s disease can occur in any part of the small or large intestine and can affect multiple segments. There are several different signs and symptoms of Crohn’s disease. These include:
- Pain and discomfort in the abdomen
- Abdominal cramping
- Severe diarrhea
- Fatigue
- Weight loss
- Malnutrition
- Disease flare-ups
- Blood in the stool
- Mouth soreness
- Reduced malnutrition
- Fistula
The exact causes of Crohn’s disease are not known. Researchers believe that factors like stress and poor diet may have contributed to aggravating Crohn’s disease. Heredity reasons and a malfunctioning or compromised immune system can lead to the development of this disease.
Common risk factors of Crohn’s disease are:
- Age
- Family history of the disease
- Smoking
The diagnosis of Crohn’s disease is done through the following tests and procedures:
- Blood tests
- Stool studies
- Colonoscopy
- CT scan
- Capsule endoscopy
Crohn’s disease is treated through the following measures:
- Medication
- Immune system suppressors
- Antibiotics
- Nutrition therapy
- Surgery
