Crohn's disease is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the digestive tract lining. The disease is often diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 30 and affects men and women equally, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NDDIC). While the disease is chronic, it is possible to experience symptom-free intervals, particularly if medication is used to control symptoms and reduce flare ups.
Cramps and Diarrhea
Chronic inflammation causes swelling and thickening of the intestinal walls. Scar tissue may eventually develop in some areas of the intestines. When intestinal walls are inflamed or covered with scar tissue, it is harder for the intestines to pass digested food through the digestive tract and abdominal cramping and pain may occur. Cells in the intestines produce excess water and salt when inflamed, causing diarrhea. Chronic diarrhea can quickly deplete the body's water supply and lead to dehydration. Symptoms of dehydration include thirst, dry mouth, decreased urination, headache, dizziness, muscle weakness and fatigue.
Ulcers and Anemia
Ulcers, or open sores, may develop on the intestines. Over time, these ulcers can enlarge and penetrate the intestinal walls. Bleeding from the ulcers can cause anemia, a condition that occurs when there are not enough healthy red blood cells to transport oxygen throughout the body. Symptoms of anemia include dizziness, fatigue, headache, shortness of breath, chest pain, a pale appearance, fast or irregular heartbeat or cold feet and hands.
Bloody Stool
Inflamed tissue may begin to bleed when digested food passes through the digestive tract. The blood is eventually pushed through the body and eliminated with stool during a bowel movement. Blood may be bright red if it originates near the lower part of the intestines or darker red if it comes from the upper part of the digestive tract.
Fissures and Fistulas
Fissure, tears in the lining of the anus, may cause pain and bleeding when a person has a bowel movement. Fistulas develop when deep ulcers form tunnels into nearby tissues. Fistulas tend to occur around the rectum or anus and can become infected, requiring antibiotic treatment or surgery. Symptoms of fistulas include the drainage of stool, mucus or pus drains from the fistulas' opening.
Blockages
Scar tissue may cause significant narrowing of the intestinal walls, resulting in intestinal blockages or constipation. Symptoms of an intestinal blockage include abdominal pain, vomiting, nausea or swelling in the affected area. An intestinal blockage is a potentially life-threatening emergency that requires immediate medical attention.
Weight Loss
Poor appetite and weight loss is a common symptom of Crohn's disease. Due to frequent inflammation and diarrhea, the body may not be able to obtain adequate protein and nutrition from food. Weight loss in children with the disease can delay puberty and slow growth, according to the Seattle Children's Hospital.
Other Symptoms
Fever and fatigue may accompany inflammation or infection. Other symptoms of Crohn's disease may include liver or bile duct inflammation, skin lesions, arthritis, bloating, eye inflammation, joint pain and kidney or gall stones.
