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Crohn’s Disease

Learn more about symptoms, risk factors and treatment options.

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What is it?

Crohn’s disease is a chronic digestive disease that causes inflammation of the digestive tract. It is also referred to as an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). 

Although it most commonly impacts the lower part of the small intestine, Crohn’s disease can affect any part of the digestive tract, from the mouth to the anus. Swelling that extends deep into the lining of the impacted organ can cause pain and can make the intestines empty frequently, resulting in diarrhea.

Symptoms

Symptoms of Crohn’s disease include:

  • Abdominal pain or discomfort 
  • Bleeding 
  • Constipation 
  • Diarrhea 
  • Weight Loss

When to see a doctor

Occasional abdominal distress such as cramping, bloating or diarrhea often resolve on their own. If your symptoms seem severe, or if they persist, it’s time to see a doctor.

Screening for Crohn’s disease is not routine. It requires the expertise of a doctor with special training in the diagnosis and management of intestinal tract diseases.

Causes and risk factors

The exact cause of Crohn’s disease is unknown. Many factors involving your immune system and genetics (Jewish heritage, blood relative with Crohn’s disease) may play a role in it.

Treatment options

If you have Crohn’s disease, treatment may include:

  • Lifestyle changes, like quitting smoking and avoiding NSAID (pain reducing) medications
  • Drug therapy
  • Nutritional supplements
  • Surgery

Testing

Your doctor can help you determine if you have Crohn’s disease. They may recommend the following tests or procedures:

  • Biopsy, if needed 
  • Blood tests
  • Endoscopy
  • Colonoscopy

Prevention

Although there are risk factors that may increase your risk of developing Crohn’s disease, you can get it even if you don’t have any risk factors. You cannot prevent Crohn’s disease.

Additional conditions

Liver Cancer

Barrett’s Esophagus

Acid Reflux, Heartburn and GERD