Crohn's disease is a lifelong inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). In Crohn's disease, parts of the digestive system get swollen and have deep sores called ulcers. This can result in symptoms such as belly pain and diarrhea.
Crohn's disease can affect any part of the digestive tract (which goes from the mouth to the anus). Most common is Crohn's disease that affects the ileum (the part of the small intestine that joins the large intestine). But Crohn's disease can be in multiple places in the digestive tract at the same time.
What causes it?
Doctors don't know what causes Crohn's disease. You may get it because your immune system has an abnormal response to normal bacteria in your intestine. Other kinds of bacteria and viruses may also play a role in causing the disease. Crohn's disease may run in families. Smoking puts you at a higher risk.
What are the symptoms?
The main symptoms of Crohn's disease are belly pain and diarrhea (sometimes with blood). Losing weight without trying is another common sign. You may have only mild symptoms or go for periods of time without symptoms. A few people have ongoing, severe symptoms.
How is it diagnosed?
Your doctor will ask you about your symptoms and do a physical exam. You may also have X-rays and lab tests to find out if you have Crohn's disease. You may have tests that look inside the colon, and you may have a biopsy.
How is Crohn's disease treated?
Your treatment will depend on your symptoms and how bad they are. The main treatment for Crohn's disease is medicine. Mild symptoms may be treated with over-the-counter medicines to stop diarrhea. You may also use prescription medicines to treat and prevent symptoms. Some people need other treatments, such as surgery.
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