Crohn's Disease

Crohn's disease is a chronic autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks parts of the digestive tract, causing inflammation, ulcers, and pain. It can affect any part of the digestive system - from the mouth to the anus - but most often targets the end of the small intestine and the beginning of the colon. Crohn's is unpredictable, with periods of flare-ups and remission, and while there is no cure, treatments can help manage symptoms and reduce inflammation.

Ongoing diarrhea (sometimes bloody); Abdominal pain or cramping (especially in the lower right side); Weight loss or poor appetite; Fatigue; Fever; Mouth sores; Anemia (low iron); Joint pain; Delayed growth or puberty (in children). In severe cases, bowel obstruction, fistulas, or abscesses.

Exact cause is unknown but likely results from: Immune system malfunction - the body attacks its own digestive tract; Genetics - more common in people with a family history; Environmental triggers - diet, smoking, antibiotics, or infections may trigger or worsen it; Gut microbiome imbalance.

Blood tests (to check for inflammation or anemia); Stool tests (to rule out infections); Colonoscopy or endoscopy (to view inflammation or ulcers); Biopsy (tissue sample of inflamed areas); CT or MRI scans to view deeper areas of the digestive tract.

No cure, but several treatments help: Anti-inflammatory drugs (like mesalamine or corticosteroids); Immune system suppressors (like azathioprine or methotrexate); Biologic therapies (e.g., infliximab, adalimumab); Antibiotics (for abscesses or infections); Nutritional therapy or special diets; Surgery (to remove damaged bowel segments in severe cases).

Crohn's is chronic, but many people live full, active lives with treatment. Some patients may require multiple surgeries. Long-term inflammation can increase the risk of intestinal cancer. Regular monitoring and healthy lifestyle choices can reduce flares.

Affects about 1 in 200 people in the U.S. Can begin at any age, but most often appears between ages 15-35. Equally common in men and women. More common in people of European descent, especially Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry.