Crohn's disease is one form of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). There is no known cause for Crohn's disease, but it is believed to be an abnormal response of the immune system. According to the Mayo Clinic, the immune system may wrongly react to the bacteria that normally lives in the intestinal tract, causing inflammation. The chronic inflammation caused by Crohn's disease can lead to particular symptoms, which may appear suddenly or slowly build up over time.
Abdominal Pain
The National Institutes of Health lists the most common symptom of Crohn's disease as abdominal pain, which is most often located in the lower right side of the abdomen. This pain may be accompanied by cramping--because of the inflammation of the intestinal tract, the walls of the bowel begin to swell, which causes a problem with the movement of digestive contents and leads to cramping and pain. The "New York Times" Health Guide reports that many sufferers complain of joint pain as well.
Diarrhea
Diarrhea is another common symptom of Crohn's disease. The Mayo Clinic explains that due to the inflammation in the lining of the intestinal walls, the cells secrete excess water and salt. The colon does not have the ability to absorb it all, and the excess fluid leads to diarrhea. Diarrhea can also be caused by excessive cramping of the intestines.
Bleeding
Another symptom of Crohn's disease is rectal bleeding. As the intestinal tissue becomes inflamed, it also becomes more sensitive, and as food and digestive matter passes over the tissue, it can cause it to bleed. Rectal bleeding can take place on its own, but commonly occurs with a bowel movement, and the blood can range in color from dark black to bright red or light pink. The NIH states that bleeding can be a chronic problem, and the longer it persists, the greater the risk of developing anemia.
Other Symptoms
There are other signs and symptoms of Crohn's disease that are not as common as abdominal pain, diarrhea and bleeding. The Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America reports that arthritis will typically affect up to 25 percent of those who have been diagnosed with Crohn's disease. The good news is that as the intestinal symptoms of Crohn's disease improve, so will the arthritis symptoms. The severe abdominal cramping and diarrhea can lead to loss of appetite and subsequent weight loss. Skin ulcers, intestinal ulcers, fever and fatigue are the other uncommon symptoms. Children that are afflicted with Crohn's disease may suffer from delayed development, both mentally and physically.
