What is Crohn’s Disease?

Do you or someone you know have Crohn’s Disease?

In the US there are approximately 700,000 people with a diagnosed case of Crohn’s. Most diagnoses of Crohn’s are commonly found between the ages of 15 and 35.

What is Crohn’s Disease?

Crohn’s disease is a type of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) that can affect any part of the digestive tract, from the mouth to the anus. It is a chronic, recurring condition that causes inflammation of the lining of the digestive tract. It is characterized by symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, rectal bleeding, weight loss, and fatigue.

Crohn’s disease is caused by a combination of genetic, environmental and immune factors, although the exact cause is still not fully understood. The disease is believed to be an abnormal response of the body’s immune system to its own gut bacteria.

The disease can be difficult to diagnose because its symptoms are similar to other intestinal disorders and can also vary from person to person. Diagnosis is typically made through a combination of blood tests, stool tests, imaging studies, and endoscopic procedures.

Crohn’s disease is a chronic condition that can cause serious and long-term health problems. Some possible complications of Crohn’s disease include nutritional deficiencies, intestinal blockages, fistulas, and an increased risk of colon cancer.

Crohn’s disease is treated with a combination of medications and lifestyle changes, with the goal of reducing inflammation, relieving symptoms and maintaining remission, which can help people with the condition lead a healthy and fulfilling life. Medications commonly used to treat Crohn’s disease include anti-inflammatory drugs, immunosuppressants, and biologics. Surgery may be an option for some individuals, specially in cases where the condition is severe and doesn’t respond to medications.