What is Crohn's disease?
Crohn's disease is a type of inflammatory bowel disease. Researchers are not sure how it starts, who is more likely to have it, or how to better manage it. Despite great advances in treatment in the last three decades, there is still no cure. Crohn's disease most commonly occurs in the small intestine and colon. It can affect any part of your gastrointestinal tract, from the mouth to the anus. May include some parts of the tract and cross other parts. Symptoms change and can change over time. In severe cases, the disease can lead to outbreaks and life-threatening complications.
What causes Crohn's disease?
It is not clear what causes Crohn's disease. However, the following factors may affect:
- immune system
- genetics
- environment
Up to 20% of people with Crohn's disease have a parent, sibling or child with the disease. According to a 2012 study, several things can affect the severity of symptoms:
- smoking
- age
- the length of time you have had the disease
People with Crohn's disease are also more likely to develop intestinal infections from bacteria, viruses, parasites and fungi. This can affect the severity of the symptoms and create complications.
Crohn's disease and treatments can also affect the immune system, exacerbating these types of infections.
Crohn's symptoms
The symptoms of Crohn's disease often develop gradually. Certain symptoms may worsen over time. Although it is possible, it is rare for symptoms to develop suddenly and dramatically.
Early symptoms of the disease include:
- diarrhea
- abdominal pain
- blood in the stool
- fever
- fatigue
- loss of appetite
- weight loss
- feeling as if the intestines are empty
The symptoms may become more severe as the disease progresses.
Sources: Healthline, WebMD
