How Does Crohn's Disease Affect the Body?
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Statistics
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Crohn's disease is condition that affects the digestive tract and is considered a form of inflammatory bowel disease. According to the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America (CCFA), Crohn's disease affects at least 500,000 individuals in the United States. There is no known cure for the disease and the exact cause is unknown, but Crohn's disease tends to run in families, and young adults are more apt to be diagnosed with Crohn's than other age groups.
Diarrhea and Bleeding
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Diarrhea is a common symptom of Crohn's disease. The diarrhea may be mild, or frequent and chronic. Some people with Crohn's disease may have symptoms diminish and reoccur without warning. The diarrhea may be accompanied by blood in the stool. In severe cases, rectal bleeding may not be associated with passing stool and may lead to anemia or other complications if not treated.
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Abdominal Pain
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Abdominal pain often accompanies Crohn's disease. The pain may occur with or without diarrhea, and the severity varies from person to person. The pain is most common in the lower stomach and ranges from mild cramping and pressure to more severe debilitating pain. Individuals with Crohn's disease that experience sudden and severe pain in the abdomen should consult a doctor immediately to rule out other conditions and complications.
Appetite and Weight Loss
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People with Crohn's disease may experience loss of appetite and a full feeling. Loss of appetite combined with diarrhea often results in weight loss. Sudden or drastic weight loss should be evaluated, as it may lead to vitamin and mineral deficiencies, causing further health problems.
Fever and Fatigue
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Individuals suffering with Crohn's disease may experience low-grade fevers and an overall feeling of fatigue. Chronic fatigue often accompanies severe diarrhea and may indicate dietary deficiencies. High or persistent fevers may indicate an infection.
Infections
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Crohn's disease may cause ulcers in and around the intestine or rectal area. When this happens, the sores may become infected and antibiotic treatment is often recommended. When the infection is severe or an ulcer becomes abscessed, more invasive treatments such as draining the infection or surgery may be needed.
Bowel Obstruction
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Crohn's disease inflames the intestine, causing it to swell; when combined with scarring often associated with ulcers, it may cause an obstruction of the bowel. Stomach pain, bloating and vomiting are common symptoms of a bowel obstruction. Ant-inflammatory medication often reduces swelling and relieve the obstruction, but severe cases may require surgical intervention.
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