Crohn's disease is a type of inflammatory bowel disease that causes an inflammation of the intestinal tract. Signs of Crohn's disease may emerge in response to diet or stress, but are likely caused by immune system and inherited factors, according to the Mayo Clinic. Signs and symptoms of Crohn's may range in severity and may vary depending upon the part of the gastrointestinal tract that is affected.
Bowel Irregularity
According to the Mayo Clinic, diarrhea is the most common problem experienced by people with Crohn's disease. Inflammation causes cells of the intestines to secrete excess amounts of water and salt which cannot be absorbed, leading to persistent and watery diarrhea. Chronic cases or those that are left untreated can lead to malnutrition due to poor absorption of nutrients, especially deficiencies in vitamin B12, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Some people may also experience tenesmus, or pain associated with bowel movement, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Stomach cramping can exacerbate diarrhea, and irritation of the intestinal lining and rectum can cause bleeding or blood in the stool. Although diarrhea is more common, some people with Crohn's may develop constipation.
Over long periods of time, Crohn's disease can cause the intestinal wall to thicken, narrowing the passage through the bowel. Consequently, the flow of digestive contents, air and stool may become blocked, leading to a bowel obstruction. Signs of a bowel obstruction can include abdominal bloating, inability to pass gas or stool, vomiting and abdominal pain or tenderness. Prompt treatment should be sought if you experience any of these signs, as serious infections and intestinal tissue death can occur.
Abdominal Discomfort
Symptoms of abdominal discomfort are common among those with Crohn's disease and may range in severity from mild to severe, according to the Mayo Clinic. Abdominal symptoms may develop gradually, or they may come on suddenly and without warning. While mild cases of Crohn's disease may only cause slightly bothersome intestinal discomfort, severe cases can lead to extremely painful stomach cramping, nausea and vomiting, according to the Mayo Clinic. During flare-ups, some people may also develop a fever. Abdominal discomfort and nausea can lead to a loss of appetite, unintentional weight loss and fatigue.
Whole-body Inflammation
While inflammation caused by the body's immune response may be limited to the intestine, it can sometimes occur throughout the whole body. Signs of systemic inflammation can include a skin rash, mouth ulcers, swollen gums, joint pain and eye inflammation, according to the National Institutes of Health. Long-term inflammation can also lead to the development of ulcers in the intestinal tract, anus and genital area, according to the Mayo Clinic. Though uncommon, inflammation of the liver and pancreas can also occur. The liver may sometimes be large enough that it is palpable upon physical examination.
Fistulas
Crohn's disease can lead to the development of fistulas, or abnormal connections between intestines, organs or vessels. For example, an internal fistula may develop between the large intestine and bladder or vagina, causing food to bypass the bowel and interfere with food absorption, according to the Mayo Clinic. An external fistula from the intestine to the skin may cause the contents of the bowel to drain to the skin, leading to life-threatening abscess or infection. According to the NIH, fistulas usually form around the rectal area and may cause drainage of pus, mucous or stool.
