Crohn’s disease is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that can cause a wide range of symptoms. Some people with Crohn’s disease experience only mild symptoms, while others experience more severe symptoms that can interfere with their daily lives. There is no cure for Crohn’s disease, but there are treatments available that can help manage the symptoms.
If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, it is important to see a doctor to get a diagnosis. Early diagnosis and treatment is important for managing Crohn’s disease and preventing complications.
Abdominal pain is one of the most common symptoms of Crohn’s disease. The pain can be sharp or dull, and it can occur in different parts of the abdomen. The type, location and length of time that you feel pain depends on where in your digestive tract the disease is active
Diarrhea is another common symptom of Crohn’s disease. The diarrhea may be watery or loose stools, and it may contain blood or mucus. It can be frequent and difficult to control, and may lead to dehydration.
Fatigue is a common symptom of many chronic illnesses, including Crohn’s disease. It may be the result of the inflammation and anemia associated with Crohn’s disease. Fatigue can make it difficult to carry out your daily activities.
Weight loss can occur due to diarrhea, decreased appetite, and malabsorption of nutrients. Crohn’s disease can lead to nutrient deficiencies which can be helped with dietary changes, or in more extreme cases supplementation.
A fever is usually the result of inflammation in your body and can happen during flares of the disease
Mouth sores are another possible symptom. These are small, round ulcers that appear inside the mouth. They can make swallowing difficult.
Blood in the stool occurs when inflammation causes ulcers. The blood can make the stool appear red or maroon and require immediate investigation by a medical professional
Joint pain is one of the most frequent extra intestinal manifestations and can affect people with this disease.
Some patients with Crohn’s disease can develop anal fissures, ulcers and skin tags
While many live long healthy lives with Crohn’s disease, some patients may develop complications, such as: bowel strictures; bowel obstructions; intestinal fistulas; fistulas and abscesses around the anus. In these situations it is imperative that the patient communicates their symptoms and works closely with their physician
It is important to note that these symptoms can be caused by other conditions as well. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor to get a diagnosis. Early diagnosis and treatment is important for managing Crohn’s disease and preventing complications.