Overview
Crohn's disease is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that can affect any part of your digestive tract from your mouth to your anus, though it most commonly affects the end of the small intestine and the beginning of the large intestine. It causes inflammation that goes deep into the layers of affected bowel tissue, leading to pain, severe diarrhea, malnutrition, and other complications.
Symptoms
Persistent diarrhea
Abdominal pain and cramping
Rectal bleeding or bloody stools
Weight loss and growth delay
Fever and fatigue
Loss of appetite
Common Causes
Immune system dysfunction attacking gut tissue
Genetic predisposition to IBD
Environmental triggers unknown
Imbalance in gut microbiome
Intestinal barrier dysfunction
Family history of IBD
Self-Care Tips
Keep a food diary to identify triggers
Eat small, frequent meals
Stay hydrated, especially during flares
Avoid high-fat and high-fiber foods during flares
Manage stress with relaxation techniques
Regular medical follow-up and medication adherence
When to See a Doctor
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe abdominal pain, persistent bloody diarrhea, signs of dehydration, or fever above 101°F (38.3°C). Regular gastroenterologist visits are essential for managing Crohn's disease.
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Ulcerative Colitis
Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that affects the colon and rectum. It causes inflammation and ulcers (sores) in the innermost lining of the large intestine, leading to symptoms like diarrhea, rectal bleeding, and abdominal pain. Unlike Crohn's disease, UC inflammation is limited to the colon and does not extend through all layers of the bowel wall.
IBD Medications
Managing inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis) often requires medications to reduce inflammation, suppress the immune system, and control symptoms. There are several classes of medications used to treat IBD, ranging from aminosalicylates for mild disease to biologic therapies for moderate to severe cases. Finding the right medication regimen is key to achieving and maintaining remission.
Colonoscopy Preparation
Colonoscopy is a 20–30 minute procedure where a thin, flexible tube with a tiny camera is passed through the rectum to examine the entire large intestine. It's the gold standard for detecting and removing colon polyps before they turn into cancer, and for diagnosing causes of bleeding, chronic diarrhea, or anemia. You'll be sedated and comfortable throughout. The success of the test depends almost entirely on how well your colon is cleaned out beforehand — that's why preparation is so important.