Crohn's disease is a type of inflammatory bowel disease that commonly causes chronic diarrhea and abdominal pain. Patients between the ages of 20 and 30 who smoke cigarettes or have a family history of this condition are at an increased risk of developing Crohn's disease, according to the Mayo Clinic. Though stomach-related symptoms occur more frequently in patients with this disease, a number of flu-like symptoms can arise in patients with Crohn's disease.
Fever
Inflammation within the intestinal tract can cause patients with Crohn's disease to develop fever as a flu-like symptom of this condition. Fever symptoms are typically low-grade and may be accompanied by chills, sweating or headache. Patients who develop recurrent fever symptoms should seek care from a medical professional because this flu-like symptom of Crohn's disease can be a sign of alternate health problems.
Joint or Body Pain
Patients with Crohn's disease can develop inflammation and irritation within the joints of the body. As a result, patients with this condition can develop painful sensations within the joints, according to the Merck Manual, an online medical encyclopedia for patients and caregivers. Flu-like symptoms of joint or body pain or discomfort can affect a patient's ability to move about normally. Crohn's disease patients who develop severe or chronic joint or body pain symptoms should receive additional care from a physician since these symptoms can be signs of arthritis.
Weakness or Fatigue
Flu-like symptoms, such as weakness or fatigue, can arise in patients with Crohn's disease. Such symptoms are more common in children with this condition, according to the Merck Manual, and may be associated with anemia due to low red blood cell levels within the body. Unusual weakness or fatigue can make it difficult for patients with Crohn's disease to participate in usual, daily activities, such as school or work.
Stomach Upset, Decreased Appetite or Weight Loss
Crohn's disease can cause flu-like stomach upset stomach symptoms in patients with this condition. These stomach upset symptoms can include nausea and vomiting, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Stomach upset or irritation can lead to decreased appetite and subsequent weight loss in certain patients. Severe or persistent vomiting can increase a patient's risk of developing dehydration symptoms, such as fatigue, confusion, increased thirst or dizziness. Patients with Crohn's disease who develop any of these stomach-related symptoms should consult a physician because these symptoms can be signs of other medical problems.
