Crohn’s Disease

Symptoms vary depending on the severity and location of inflammation. Common signs include:
✅ Abdominal pain and cramping
✅ Persistent diarrhea
✅ Unintentional weight loss and malnutrition
✅ Fatigue and low energy
✅ Fever
✅ Mouth sores
✅ Fistulas and abscesses (complications in severe cases)

While the exact cause is unknown, Crohn’s disease is believed to result from a combination of factors:
🔹 Genetics – Family history can increase the risk.
🔹 Immune System Dysfunction – An abnormal immune response may trigger inflammation.
🔹 Environmental Factors – Certain diets, stress, and smoking can contribute to flare-ups.
🔹 Age and Ethnicity – More common in younger individuals and certain ethnic groups.

Diagnosing Crohn’s disease requires a comprehensive evaluation, which may include:

🔬 Blood tests to check for inflammation or deficiencies.
💩 Stool tests to rule out infections.
🔍 Endoscopy and colonoscopy to examine the digestive tract.
🖥 Imaging scans (CT/MRI) to detect complications.

There is no cure for Crohn’s disease, but various treatment options help control symptoms and prevent complications:
💊 Medications – Anti-inflammatory drugs, immune suppressors, and antibiotics.
🥗 Dietary Adjustments – Avoiding trigger foods like dairy, high-fiber meals, and spicy foods can help reduce flare-ups.
🧘 Lifestyle Changes – Managing stress and quitting smoking can improve symptoms.
🔪 Surgery – In severe cases, surgery may be needed to remove damaged sections of the intestine or treat complications like fistulas.