Overview
Crohn's disease is a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that leads to the swelling of tissues in the digestive tract, causing abdominal pain, severe diarrhea, fatigue, weight loss, and malnutrition. The inflammation caused by Crohn's disease typically involves the small intestine, and it can spread into the deeper layers of the bowel. There's no known cure for Crohn's disease, but therapies can help manage its symptoms and bring about long-term remission.
Understanding the disease
Symptoms
The symptoms of Crohn's disease can vary from person to person and may include: diarrhea, fever, fatigue, abdominal pain and cramping, blood in the stool, mouth sores, reduced appetite and weight loss, and pain or drainage near or around the anus due to inflammation from a tunnel into the skin (fistula). In some cases, people with severe Crohn's disease may also experience symptoms outside of the intestinal tract, such as inflammation of the skin, eyes, and joints, inflammation of the liver or bile ducts, kidney stones, and iron deficiency (anemia). If you have any of these symptoms or persistent changes in your bowel habits, it is important to see a doctor.
Risk Factors
Risk factors for Crohn's disease may include:
- Age: Crohn's disease can occur at any age, but it is more likely to develop when a person is young. Most people are diagnosed before they are 30 years old.
- Ethnicity: Crohn's disease affects people of all ethnicities, but whites have the highest risk, particularly those of Eastern European (Ashkenazi) Jewish descent. The incidence of Crohn's disease is increasing among Black people living in North America and the United Kingdom. The condition is also becoming more common in the Middle Eastern population and among migrants to the United States.
- Family history: Having a first-degree relative, such as a parent, sibling, or child, with Crohn's disease increases the risk of developing the condition. As many as 1 in 5 people with Crohn's disease has a family member with the disease.
- Cigarette smoking: Smoking is the most important controllable risk factor for developing Crohn's disease. It also leads to more severe disease and a higher risk of needing surgery. Quitting smoking can reduce the risk of developing Crohn's disease and its complications.
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs): These include ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others), naproxen sodium (Aleve), diclofenac sodium, and others. While they do not cause Crohn's disease, they can lead to inflammation of the bowel that worsens the condition.
Development
Crohn's disease is a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that affects the digestive tract, causing inflammation in the tissues, which can lead to a range of symptoms. The exact cause of Crohn's disease remains unknown, but several factors are believed to play a role in its development. These include:
- Immune system: An atypical immune response may trigger Crohn's disease when the immune system attacks the cells in the digestive tract in response to an invading microorganism or environmental triggers.
- Genetics: There is a genetic component to Crohn's disease, as it tends to run in families. However, most people with Crohn's disease do not have a direct family history of the disease.
- Environmental factors: Certain environmental factors may contribute to the development of Crohn's disease, but the specific triggers have not yet been identified.
- Smoking: Smokers are more likely to develop Crohn's disease than non-smokers. It's important to note that these factors contribute to the development of Crohn's disease, but they do not cause it directly. The exact cause of the disease remains unknown, and researchers continue to study the complex interactions between genetic, environmental, and immune factors to better understand Crohn's disease.
Assessment and Diagnosis
Triage
You should see a doctor if Crohn's disease is suspected based on persistent changes in bowel habits or the presence of any signs and symptoms of Crohn's disease, such as abdominal pain, blood in the stool, diarrhea lasting more than two weeks, unexplained weight loss, fever, and mouth sores. These symptoms may indicate the presence of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and a doctor can help determine the appropriate course of action.
Management and Treatment
Complications
Potential complications of Crohn's disease include bowel obstruction, other health problems such as low iron (anemia), osteoporosis, arthritis, gallbladder or liver disease, medication risks including cancers such as lymphoma and skin cancers, and blood clots.
Treatment
The exact cause of Crohn's disease remains unknown, but several factors are believed to play a role in its development. Some of these factors may include genetics, an overactive immune system, smoking, and exposure to certain bacteria and viruses. Environmental and lifestyle factors can also trigger flares in people with Crohn's disease. A combination of genetic and environmental factors is thought to contribute to the development of the condition.
Preparing for medical consultation
To prepare for an appointment for Crohn's disease, you should:
- Be aware of any pre-appointment restrictions and ask about them when scheduling the appointment.
- Write down symptoms, including any unrelated ones.
- List key personal information, such as recent life changes and family medical history.
- Create a list of all medications, vitamins, or supplements you're taking.
- Bring a family member or friend to help remember information and provide support.
- Prepare a list of questions for your healthcare provider.
- Avoid irritating foods in the days leading up to your appointment. Remember to discuss your symptoms, medical history, and any concerns you have with your healthcare provider during the appointment.