Understanding Crohn's Disease: Answers to Your Most Common Questions

What is Crohn's Disease?

Crohn's disease is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that causes inflammation in your digestive tract. It can affect any part of your GI tract from mouth to anus, but most commonly impacts the end of the small intestine and beginning of the colon.

Common Symptoms

• Persistent diarrhea
• Abdominal pain and cramping
• Fatigue
• Weight loss
• Reduced appetite
• Blood in stool
• Joint pain

What Causes Crohn's Disease?

The exact cause remains unknown, but several factors contribute:

• Genetics
• Immune system dysfunction
• Environmental factors
• Lifestyle factors (smoking, diet, stress)

How is Crohn's Disease Diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically involves:

1. Physical examination
2. Blood tests
3. Stool samples
4. Colonoscopy
5. Imaging studies (CT, MRI)

Treatment Options

Medications

• Anti-inflammatory drugs
• Immunosuppressants
• Biologics
• Antibiotics

Lifestyle Changes

• Dietary modifications
• Stress management
• Regular exercise
• Smoking cessation

Living with Crohn's Disease

• Monitor symptoms regularly
• Maintain medication schedule
• Keep regular appointments
• Join support groups
• Track food triggers

When to Contact Your Doctor

• Severe abdominal pain
• Persistent fever
• New or worsening symptoms
• Unexpected weight loss
• Signs of dehydration