What is Crohn’s Disease?

Crohn's disease is an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that is a chronic condition that may recur at various times over a lifetime. It usually involves the small intestine, most often the lower part called the ileum. However, in some cases, both the small and large intestine are affected. Sometimes, inflammation may also affect the entire digestive tract, including the mouth, esophagus, stomach, duodenum, appendix, or anus.

What causes Crohn’s Disease?

There is now evidence of a genetic link as Crohn’s frequently shows up in a family group.  In addition, there is evidence that the normal bacteria that grow in the lower gut may, in some manner, act to promote inflammation. 

Symptoms of Crohn’s Disease
The following are the most common symptoms of Crohn's disease. However, each individual may experience symptoms differently. Symptoms may include:

• Abdominal pain, often in the lower right area
• Diarrhea, sometimes bloody?
• Rectal bleeding
• Weight loss
• Fever
• Joint pain
• Rectal fissure
• Rashes

Some people have long periods of remission, sometimes for years, when they are free of symptoms. There is no way to predict when a remission may occur or when symptoms will return.

The symptoms may resemble other medical conditions or problems. Always consult your physician for a diagnosis.

Treatment of Crohn’s Disease
At this time there is no cure for Crohn's disease, however, several methods are helpful in controlling it. The usual goals of treatment are to:

• Correct nutritional deficiencies
• Control inflammation
• Relieve abdominal pain, diarrhea, and rectal bleeding