Crohn's disease is a chronic disorder that causes inflammation in the digestive tract. The most common symptoms of Crohn's disease include diarrhea and abdominal pain, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Less common symptoms, such as skin rashes, weight loss, arthritis and fever may also occur. Treatment for Crohn's disease aims to manage symptoms and often involves medications, dietary changes and, in some cases, surgery. Prompt diagnosis and treatment can help prevent complications of the disease.
Acrodermatitis Enteropathica
Acrodermatitis enteropathica is a skin rash that causes itching and flaky skin on the hands, feet, face and perineum. According to the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of American, skin disorders, such as acrodermatitis enteropathica, can result from nutrient deficiencies in people with severe cases of Crohn's disease. Skin rashes are less common in people being treated for Crohn's disease, since treatment often includes a nutrient-rich diet and vitamin and mineral supplements, when needed. In addition to treating the underlying disease causing acrodermatitis enteropathica, topical creams and medications may be prescribed.
Unintentional Weight Loss
Unintentional weight loss may symptomize Crohn's disease. Although less common than diarrhea and abdominal pain, mild to severe weight loss may occur as a result of nutrient malabsorption or as a byproduct of diarrhea and fluid loss. Unintentional weight loss may pose particular harm to children with Crohn's disease, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse, as it may lead to stunted growth and development.
Arthritis
Arthritis, or painful inflammation near or within the joints, may occur as a symptom or complication of Crohn's disease. If the disease remains untreated long-term without other pronounced, common symptoms, arthritis may arise as the first noted symptom. In addition to pain and swelling, arthritis may cause reduced mobility, increased risk for falling or injury and poor physical flexibility. According to the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of American, arthritis affects up to one-quarter of individuals with inflammatory bowel diseases, such as Crohn's disease. Arthritis symptoms may improve once Crohn's disease is treated, but on-going medical treatment or physical therapy is often necessary.
Fever
Crohn's disease may also trigger increased body temperature. If fever accompanies other symptoms, such as physical weakness or abdominal pain, the symptoms may be mistaken for symptoms of the flu or other virus-related conditions. Fever may diminish once the disease is treated properly, although all symptoms of Crohn's disease may recur or lie dormant for various time periods.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Crohn's Disease Facts and Treatment
- National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse: Crohn's Disease Facts and Treatment
- Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America: Skin Disorders, Crohn's Disease and Colitis
- Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America: Arthritis, Crohn's Disease and Colitis
