Crohn's disease is a chronic inflammatory condition of the gastrointestinal tract. It usually presents in early adolescence. It is thought to be caused by a combination of environmental factors affecting a patient with a genetic predisposition to the disease. Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis are part of what is known as inflammatory bowel disease.
Abdominal Pain
Patients with inflammatory bowel disease usually have abdominal pain, which can be severe and mimic other conditions. Pain is usually limited to the area of the intestine affected by Crohn's, although this can be difficult to pinpoint during physical exam. The pain is usually sharp,described as stabbing or cramping, and is difficult to relieve without potent pain medicines.
Vomiting and Diarrhea
Patients also can have bloody stools and vomiting. The bleeding is a product of the chronic inflammation in the inside of the intestines. Blood is an irritant to the tissues, and induces vomiting. The inflammation also causes bloody diarrhea, which usually leads to anemia.
Nutritional Symptoms
Patients with Crohn's disease exhibit fatigue and weight loss. This is a result of poor nutrition, inability to absorb calories efficiently through the inflamed intestinal tissues, and chronic bleeding. Poor nutrition can also results in delayed puberty in prepubescent teens, and poor growth.
References
- Essential Pediatric Gastroenterology; Hepatology, and Nutrition; Stefano Guandalini; 2004
- National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse: Crohn's Disease
