As discussed on MayoClinic.com, Crohn's disease is an inflammation of the lining of the digestive tract. It affects both men and women equally but is more common in patients with a relative affected by the disease. Patients often complain of symptoms of abdominal pain, diarrhea, blood in the stool, fevers and weight loss. Once Crohn's disease is diagnosed, treatment is directed at reducing the inflammation. With treatment, complications can frequently be avoided.
Background
As discussed by the National Institutes of Health, the inflammation caused by Crohn's disease can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract from the mouth to the anus, but it typically affects the lower part of the small intestine, or the ileum. Additionally, the inflammation can affect all layers of the intestine, and there can be sections of healthy bowel separated by sections of inflamed bowel. Most of the complications related to Crohn's disease stem from uncontrolled inflammation.
Types of Bowel Complications
The inflammation of Crohn's disease can cause parts of the bowel to thicken and become more narrow, which can result in a bowel obstruction. Additionally, the inflammation can result in the formation of ulcers, or open sores, that can be present anywhere along the digestive tract. If the ulcer extends through the intestinal wall, a connection is created between the intestine and an area of the body where there is not normally a connection. This connection is known as a fistula. For example, a connection can form between the intestine and the skin. This can result in infection if not corrected.
Types of Systemic Complications
Malnutrition can result as a complication of chronic inflammation or because a fistula results in the bypass of nutrients that would otherwise be absorbed. Also, patients with Crohn's disease may not feel like eating if the symptoms of diarrhea or abdominal pain are not well controlled. Crohn's disease can cause complications in other areas of the body as well. Some people with Crohn's disease develop arthritis, rash, bile duct issues or eye problems. These are less common complications and can be discussed with a doctor who is a specialist in Crohn's disease.
Identification
Identification of complications of Crohn's disease requires a high level of awareness regarding a patient's particular issues. Often, special radiologic tests can be obtained to evaluate for the possibility of bowel obstruction or infection. A colonoscopy, which is a procedure in which a doctor uses a long tube with a camera on the end to examine the colon, can be performed to look for ulcers, fistulas and for evidence of infection within the bowel itself.
Treatment
As discussed by the NIH, certain complications such as a bowel obstruction may require surgery. Typically, however, treating the inflammation of Crohn's disease helps to resolve complications. Anti-inflammatory medications such as sulfasalazine, mesalamine and corticosteroids are frequently utilized. In more severe cases, medications that suppress the immune system may be necessary.
