Crohn's disease is an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that can affect any part of the digestive system from the mouth to the anus. The most common symptoms are abdominal pain and diarrhea, sometimes bloody, as well as weight loss, fatigue, and fever. Crohn's disease is caused by a combination of environmental and genetic factors. The exact cause is unknown. Treatment typically involves a combination of medication, diet, and lifestyle changes. Surgery may also be necessary in some cases. Crohn's disease can be a chronic and relapsing condition. With proper treatment, most people with Crohn's disease can live normal, active lives.
What is Crohn's disease?
Crohn's disease is a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). IBD is a condition that causes inflammation of the digestive system. Crohn's disease can affect any part of the digestive system from the mouth to the anus. The most common symptoms are abdominal pain and diarrhea, sometimes bloody. Other symptoms may include weight loss, fatigue, and fever. Crohn's disease is a chronic and relapsing condition, which means that it can come and go, and symptoms may flare up and subside over time.
What causes Crohn's disease?
The exact cause of Crohn's disease is unknown. It is thought to be caused by a combination of environmental and genetic factors. Environmental factors may include diet, bacteria, and viruses. Genetic factors may make some people more susceptible to developing Crohn's disease.
What are the risk factors for Crohn's disease?
The following are risk factors for Crohn's disease:
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Family history. Crohn's disease is more common in people who have a family member with the condition.
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Age. Crohn's disease can occur at any age, but it is most common in people between the ages of 20 and 30.
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Smoking. Smoking is a risk factor for Crohn's disease.
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Ethnicity. Crohn's disease is more common in people of Ashkenazi Jewish descent.
How is Crohn's disease diagnosed?
Crohn's disease is typically diagnosed by a combination of medical history, physical examination, laboratory tests, and imaging studies. Medical history and physical examination can help to rule out other conditions that may cause similar symptoms. Laboratory tests can help to identify inflammation and markers of Crohn's disease. Imaging studies can help to visualize the digestive system and look for signs of Crohn's disease.
How is Crohn's disease treated?
There is no cure for Crohn's disease, but treatment can help to control the symptoms and prevent complications. Treatment typically involves a combination of medication, diet, and lifestyle changes. Medications used to treat Crohn's disease include anti-inflammatory drugs, immune-modulators, and antibiotics. Surgery may also be necessary in some cases.
What are the complications of Crohn's disease?
Complications of Crohn's disease may include the following:
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Anemia. Anemia is a common complication of Crohn's disease.
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Malnutrition. Crohn's disease can cause malnutrition due to inflammation, diarrhea, and absorption problems.
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Bowel obstruction. Crohn's disease can cause the intestines to become blocked.
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Fistulas. Crohn's disease can cause fistulas, which are abnormal connections between the intestines and other organs.
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Perianal disease. Crohn's disease can cause inflammation and abscesses around the anus.
How can Crohn's disease be prevented?
There is no sure way to prevent Crohn's disease, but there are some things that may help to reduce the risk. These include avoiding smoking, eating a healthy diet, and maintaining a healthy weight.
What is the outlook for people with Crohn's disease?
Most people with Crohn's disease can live normal, active lives with proper treatment. However, Crohn's disease is a chronic and relapsing condition, and symptoms may flare up and subside over time. Complications of Crohn's disease can be serious, and may include bowel obstruction, fistulas, and perianal disease.
