Crohn's disease is a chronic condition that causes inflammation of the digestive tract. Symptoms range from mild to severe and differ from patient to patient, from day to day. Symptoms may appear suddenly, and the patient may experience long periods with no signs of Crohn's.
Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America notes that Crohn's disease was named after the scientist, Dr. Burrill B. Crohn, who first described the disease and its symptoms in 1932. The CCFA goes on to say that, as of 2007, the cause of Crohn's disease is still unknown. An estimated 1 million Americans have Crohn's disease or a closely related condition, ulcerative colitis.
Diarrhea
Crohn's causes the intestines to become inflamed, causing cells along the intestinal wall secrete large amounts of water and salt. The colon, which normally absorbs excess water, cannot keep up with the overload. The surplus fluids are mixed with stool, and the patient experiences diarrhea. MayoClinic.com says diarrhea is the most common symptom of Crohn's disease.
Blood in the Stool
Food irritates the inflamed intestine and bleeding may ensue. A patient might notice bright red blood on the tissue paper or in the toilet water. She may even notice streaks of a darker red color in her stool. Any blood in the stool should be investigated by a physician.
Abdominal Pain
Eating may cause abdominal pain and cramping. Food moves through the digestive tract and irritates the already inflamed intestine. People with mild cases of Crohn's may experiences minor cramping, while others may complain of acute pain and even nausea and vomiting.
Weight Loss
Weight loss and reduced appetite are very common symptoms of Crohn's disease. Inflammation of the gut may prevent adequate digestion of food. Additionally, people with the disease may avoid eating because the food passing along the inflamed digestive tract can be painful.
Fever
Crohn's is a disease of the inflammatory system and inflammation usually causes fever. Some people experiencing a flare-up of Crohn's disease may have a spike in temperature while others maintain a low-grade fever.
Other Symptoms
Some people who suffer with Crohn's may complain of fatigue. Ulcers in the intestine--sometimes even the mouth--are not uncommon. Crohn's disease usually affects the digestive tract but it can also present itself in the joints, eyes and liver. New Zealand Dermatological Society states that 40 percent of people who have Crohn's disease report skin problems.
