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What is Crohn's Disease?
Simply put, Crohn's Disease is a long-term (i.e. lifelong) condition . It is an autoimmune'' condition, meaning that our body's immune system attacks our own digestive system due to some fault. Think of it like our own army attacking our own country. This causes inflammation and scarring, such as redness and swelling, in the digestive system, especially the small intestine and large intestine (also called the colon'') . Crohn's Disease and another similar condition, Ulcerative Colitis'', are collectively known as Inflammatory Bowel Disease, or IBD''. This is why you often experience stomach aches , bloating, and diarrhea. Also, this inflammation can reduce the ability of food to be properly digested and absorbed by the body.What are the types of Crohn's Disease?
Now, look, this Crohn's disease can develop anywhere in the digestive system. That means from your mouth to your anus. But it most commonly affects the small intestine and large intestine. There are several types of it, depending on where it is affected:- Ileocolitis: This is the most common type . It involves inflammation of the lower part of the small intestine (we call it the ileum) and part of the large intestine.
- Colitis : This is inflammation of the lining of the large intestine.
- Ileitis: This is swelling and inflammation of the ileum, a part of the small intestine.
- Gastroduodenal Crohn's disease : Causes inflammation and discomfort in the stomach and the upper part of the small intestine (which we call the duodenum ).
- Jejunitis:In the upper part of the small intestine (we call it the jejunum''), inflammation occurs in places, like patches.
- Perianal disease: Some people can develop inflammation around the anus. This can lead to fistulas ( abnormal, tunnel-like passages, for example, from the intestines to the skin) and abscesses ( pus- filled swellings).
What are the symptoms of this?
Crohn's disease symptoms can come on suddenly, or they can develop gradually. Some people have these symptoms all at once, while others don't. Sometimes symptoms come on, go away for a few days, and then come back. We call these periods of increased symptoms a "flare-up."Commonly seen symptoms:
| Symptom | Description |
|---|---|
| Stomach ache | It is a frequent, cramping pain. |
| Diarrhea | Prolonged, watery stools. |
| Loss of appetite and weight loss | Reluctance to eat and weight loss. |
| Blood in the stool | Bleeding from the rectum. |
| Mouth sores | Painful sores in the mouth and gums. |
| Fatigue and fever | Fatigue and low-grade fever that do not go away despite adequate rest. |
Symptoms that can be seen outside the digestive system:
Crohn's disease doesn't just affect the digestive system. Sometimes symptoms can appear in other areas as well:- Joint pain (like arthritis ).
- Skin rashes .
- Conditions such as inflammation and redness of the eyes (e.g. uveitis, episcleritis).
- Formation of kidney stones.
- Osteoporosis (bone loss).
- Skin tags around the anus.
What are the possible complications of Crohn's Disease?
If Crohn's disease is not treated properly or if the disease is not controlled, certain complications can occur. This may require additional treatment, and sometimes even surgery.- Abscesses: The formation of pus-filled cysts in the digestive system or abdomen.
- Anal fissures: Small cracks in the skin of the anus, causing pain, itching, and bleeding.
- Fistulas: Abnormal tunnel-like connections between two parts of the body.
- Bowel obstructions: A partial or complete blockage of the intestine.
- Malnutrition: Inadequate intake of nutrients required by the body.
- Anemia: Lack of blood in the body.
In addition, Crohn's disease can increase the risk of colon cancer and blood clots .
Why does Crohn's Disease occur?
There is no single cause for Crohn's disease. However, it is believed to be related to a dysfunctional immune response. Sometimes Crohn's disease can run in families . This means that there may be a genetic (hereditary) influence.How do you accurately diagnose this disease?
The doctor will ask about your symptoms, family history, etc. Then, they will perform a physical exam and run several tests to make sure there are no other medical conditions. This is the only way to accurately diagnose Crohn's Disease.- Lab tests: Blood tests, stool tests.
- Imaging procedures: CT scan, MRI scan.
- Endoscopy: Colonoscopy, upper intestinal endoscopy, capsule endoscopy.
What are the treatments?
Unfortunately, there is no cure for Crohn's Disease. However, there are various treatments that can help control the disease, reduce symptoms, and make life easier.- Medications: Steroids, anti-inflammatory drugs, immunomodulators, biologics, antibiotics.
- Nutrition: Proper nutrition is essential for symptom management.
- Surgery: Surgery may be necessary to treat complications.
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