What is Crohn’s Disease?
Crohn’s disease is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease. Patients suffer from pain, swelling, and lack of flexibility in their joints. It is also associated with pain in the spine and joints. Unlike ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease does not result in inflammation of the liver. However, chronic inflammation of the bile ducts can lead to tissue scarring. Some people develop liver scarring as well as yellowing of the skin.
What can be mistaken for Crohn’s disease?
Crohn’s disease is a form of inflammatory bowel disease that affects the large intestine. Several diseases can mimic its symptoms. One of the most common, ulcerative colitis, is mistaken for Crohn’s disease by about one in ten people. There is no single test that can distinguish the two diseases. Instead, patients are likely to undergo several tests and a colonoscopy to ensure a diagnosis. Currently, there is no known cause of Crohn’s disease, but inflammatory bowel disorders are often genetic.
Some symptoms of Crohn’s disease may be similar to other conditions, such as fever, fatigue, and decreased energy. Children with Crohn’s disease may also be shorter than normal and have delayed puberty. Symptoms tend to worsen during flare-ups and can be aggravated by stress or certain foods. Doctors may order blood tests and other tests to rule out other conditions.
What can trigger Crohn’s disease?
Crohn’s disease is a chronic, inflammatory condition of the intestines. It causes inflammation and ulcers in the lining of the intestines. Typically, it affects the small intestine, but it can also affect the entire digestive tract. Although the symptoms may vary from person to person, there are several common triggers for the disease.
The symptoms of Crohn’s disease may range from mild to severe. Patients may experience abdominal pain, bowel problems, joint pain, and fatigue. In rare cases, they may also experience problems with their eyes and mouth. If they do develop, their doctors may prescribe medications for these.
Certain foods and certain stress may trigger symptoms of Crohn’s disease. While the cause of Crohn’s disease is unknown, scientists have identified genetic mutations in the intestines as a possible risk factor. The disorder usually runs in families.
What are the 5 types of Crohn’s disease?
Crohn’s disease is an inflammatory bowel disease that affects the lining of the colon. It can cause fistulas and intestinal narrowing, which usually require surgery. Symptoms of the disease can be treated with medicines to reduce inflammation. Some people also use antibiotics, but these are not effective for all patients.
Most people with Crohn’s disease develop it when they are young, but it can affect any age. Men and women are equally likely to develop it, and it can even start in young children. Cigarette smoking can also increase the risk of developing the disease. Symptoms can vary depending on the type of Crohn’s disease and the location of the inflamed areas.
Blood tests and imaging tests can confirm the diagnosis. A high white blood cell count and low red blood cell count may indicate Crohn’s disease. Another test that doctors use is an endoscopy. This procedure allows doctors to see specific areas of the bowel using an endoscope, light and camera.
What is Crohn’s disease symptoms in females?
Crohn’s disease is a very common autoimmune disease, and women can experience a wide range of symptoms. These symptoms can include weight gain or loss, irregular periods, or even pain during sex. Crohn’s disease can be difficult to live with, but can be treated. The symptoms can often be mild or completely disappear during remission.
Antibiotics are often prescribed for mild-to-moderate Crohn’s, as they can change the bacterial balance in the intestine and reduce the abnormal immune response. The most common antibiotics prescribed are ciprofloxacin (Cipro) and metronidazole (Flagyl). Anticholinergic agents can relieve abdominal pain and cramping, and are often used in combination with antibiotics. Some of these medications also contain probiotics, which help the body’s natural defenses by promoting growth of the good bacteria in the digestive tract.
How do doctors test for Crohn’s?
The first step in diagnosing Crohn’s disease is to conduct a physical examination. This may include X-rays. These images provide a cross-sectional view of your abdominal organs. They can also identify obstructions, inflammation, and bleeding. Other tests may be necessary to confirm your diagnosis.
An upper endoscopy allows your doctor to see the small intestine. This procedure uses a flexible tube that carries a camera and a light. The doctor can check for signs of inflammation and ulcers using this procedure. A biopsy can also be done to confirm the presence of Crohn’s disease.
Doctors will begin by performing a standard physical exam to rule out other medical conditions. The physician will also look at your symptoms and ask about your family history. They will then order certain laboratory tests and stool samples to rule out other underlying medical conditions. Some tests will also include an X-ray of the GI tract. This test may use a contrast chemical to enhance images of the GI tract.
