Crohn's is a severe, chronic inflammatory bowel disease. It causes inflammation,
ulcers, and bleeding in the digestive tract. It usually affects the end portion of the small intestine called the ileum. However, any part of the digestive tract can be affected, from the mouth to the anus.
The cause of Crohn's disease is not known.
Inflammatory bowel diseases
(eg, ulcerative colitis
and Crohn's disease) seem to run in some families. Some researchers think that it is due to a reaction to a virus or bacteria. The immune system overreacts and causes damage to the intestines.
Factors that increase your chance of getting Crohn's include:
Family members with inflammatory bowel diseaseJewish heritageA diet that is high in fat, sugar, and meat
Symptoms include:
DiarrheaAbdominal cramps and painRectal bleedingWeight lossFatigue, weaknessNauseaFeverMouth soresSores, abscesses in the anal areaThe doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done.
Tests may include:
Your bodily fluids and waste products may need to be tested. This can be done with: Blood testsStool testsPictures of your bodily structures may need to be taken. This can be done with:
Barium swallowBarium enema x-rayYour rectum and colon may need to be examined. This can be done with:
Flexible sigmoidoscopyColonoscopyTissue samples of your colon may need to be taken. This can be done with biopsy.
If you are diagnosed with Crohn's disease, follow your doctor's
instructions.
Treatment may include:
Your doctor may recommend that you avoid foods that trigger symptoms.
These foods are different for each person. They may include:
Dairy foods due to lactose intoleranceHighly seasoned foodsHigh-fiber foodsThere are many types of medicines that are used to treat Crohn's disease. Examples of these medicines include:
Aminosalicylate medicines—Such as
sulfasalazine,
mesalamine,
olsalazine
Anti-inflammatory medicines—Such as
prednisone,
methylprednisolone,
budesonide
Immune modifiers—Such as
azathioprine, 6-mercaptopurine,
methotrexate
TNF inhibitors—Such as
infliximab,
adalimumab,
etanercept,
certolizumab,
golimumab
Antibiotic medicines—Such as
metronidazole,
ampicillin,
ciprofloxacinVery severe Crohn's may not improve with medicines. You may be advised to have the diseased section of your intestine removed. The two remaining healthier ends of the intestine are then joined together. You are still at high risk for the disease returning.
Surgery may also be done if you have an obstruction or fistulas.
Untreated Crohn's disease may lead to:
Fistulas—Abnormal connections between the intestine and other organs or tissues, such as the bladder, vagina, or skinIntestinal obstructionArthritisEye inflammationLiver diseaseKidney stonesGallstonesSkin rashesOsteoporosisThere are no guidelines for preventing Crohn's disease because the cause is unknown.
Last reviewed September 2012 by Daus Mahnke, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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