Crohn's Disease is a long-term condition that affects the digestive system, often causing inflammation in the small intestine or colon. It's one of the main types of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and can be tough to live with, but with the right support and treatment, most people can manage it well.
If you or someone you love has been dealing with ongoing stomach issues, it's worth learning more about this condition and considering early screening with your gastroenterologist.
What Are the Common Symptoms of Crohn's?
Crohn's Disease symptoms can come and go. Sometimes you may feel fine, and other times you might experience what's called a “flare-up.” These symptoms can range from mild to quite severe, and they vary depending on where the inflammation occurs in your digestive tract.
Here are some of the most common signs:
- Frequent diarrhoea
- Cramping or pain in the stomach
- Weight loss without trying
- Feeling tired all the time
- Blood in the stool
- Loss of appetite
- Fever during flare-ups
Some people also experience symptoms outside the gut, like joint pain, skin rashes, or mouth sores.
What Causes Crohn's Disease?
The exact cause of Crohn's Disease isn't fully understood. It's not something you catch from someone else, and it's not caused by eating spicy food or being stressed (although stress can make symptoms worse).
Experts believe Crohn's Disease may be triggered by a mix of the following:
- Genetics: Crohn's can run in families. If you have a parent, sibling, or close relative with Crohn's Disease or another inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), your chances of developing it may be higher. This doesn't mean it's guaranteed, but genetics do seem to play a role.
- Immune system: Normally, your immune system helps fight off harmful bacteria, viruses, and infections. But in people with Crohn's Disease, the immune system seems to overreact, even to things that aren't a real threat, like harmless gut bacteria or food. This causes inflammation in the digestive tract, which leads to the painful symptoms associated with the disease. It's like your body is attacking itself by mistake.
- Environment: Where and how you live might also influence your risk. People in developed, urbanised areas seem more likely to develop Crohn's, possibly due to lifestyle factors, diet, pollution, or even lower exposure to certain microbes during childhood (sometimes called the “hygiene hypothesis”). Other potential triggers include smoking, diet, stress, or certain medications.
It's important to know that while these factors may increase your risk, having one doesn't mean you'll get Crohn's.
If you're struggling with digestive issues or unexplained symptoms, consider seeing a gastroenterologist, such as Dr Fernandes Mark Lee, who can help you create clear, manageable treatment plans and guide you through long-term care.
How Is Crohn's Treated?
There's currently no cure for Crohn's Disease, but treatment focuses on reducing inflammation, managing symptoms, and improving quality of life.
Some common treatment options include:
- Medications: Anti-inflammatory drugs, steroids, and immune system suppressors are often used to calm flare-ups.
- Biologic therapy: This is a newer class of treatment that targets specific parts of the immune system.
- Dietary changes: Some people find relief by avoiding certain foods. A gastroenterologist can guide you here.
- Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be needed to remove damaged parts of the intestine.
Don't Wait, Get Checked
If you've been living with digestive discomfort, don't ignore it. Whether it's mild or severe, it's worth having a conversation with a doctor. Early screening from a gastroenterologist like Dr Fernandes Mark Lee can help you understand what's going on and take the right steps forward.
