What is Crohn’s Disease?

Symptoms

In most cases, the areas Crohn’s disease affects are the colon and the final part of the small intestine (the ileum). Symptoms of this condition typically develop gradually, but sometimes symptoms will start without warning. Sometimes patients report periods in which no symptoms are present. Symptoms can range in severity from mild to more extreme depending on the affected individual and each case.

When symptoms of Crohn’s disease are present, they typically include a collection of infected pus, high fever, abdominal pain, diarrhea, rectal bleeding, blood in the stool, mouth sores, abdominal pain and cramping, constipation, loss of appetite, weight loss, night sweats, and fatigue. Patients who have severe cases of Crohn’s disease may also experience symptoms such as joint, eye, skin, liver, and bile duct inflammation. Children with severe Crohn’s disease may also have delayed growth or sexual development.

Continue reading for information on Crohn’s disease risk factors.