Crohn's Disease is sometimes difficult to identify, as thesymptoms mimic many other gastrointestinal disorders. However,once you recognize an inflammatory bowel disease, specifictesting can be completed to determine if Crohn's is an issue.
The primary symptom associated with Crohn's Disease is diarrhea.The inflammation of the intestines experienced as a result ofthe disorder causes excessive amounts of salt and water to beproduced that the body can not reabsorb. The body, in turn,attempts to dispose of the excess fluid causing diarrhea.Intestinal contractions also contribute to this process. Theseverity of diarrhea will vary by individual, from mildly looseoccurring slightly more frequently to extremely watery occurringmultiple times a day.
Another sign of Crohn's is bleeding of the intestines, typicallyseen in the stool of the sufferer. This is caused by theswelling and inflammation of the intestinal wall, which becomesdamaged as waste passes through the body. Depending on theseverity, this can be of major concern, causing anemia and othercomplications. Ranging in color from bright red to darkershades, blood in one's stool should cause concern.
Abdominal pain and cramping are also common with Crohn'sDisease, as inflammation worsens. The swelling itself can bepainful; however, the passage of waste through inflamed channelscauses more discomfort. The longer inflammation lasts, the wallsof the intestinal tract become thick with scar tissue, whichworsens that matter.
Crohn's sufferers also sometimes endure ulcers and sores as aresult of the disease. Also caused as a result of inflammation,the intestines can develop abrasions that enlarge into ulcers.This correlates with abdominal pain and cramping as well.However, it can also lead to infection and other complications.
People that suffer from this disease are sometimes affected inunlikely areas of their life as well. When someone experiencesdigestive problems, they often lose their appetite and desire toconsume food. This coupled with absorption problems, due toinflammation, may lead to malnutrition and weight loss.
Severe cases of Crohn's Disease also exhibit fever, fatigue, andother issues that do not relate to the intestines, such asarthritis or liver disorders. However, the intensity of symptomsexperienced will vary greatly from person to person. While somewill have severe side effects, others may have very few. Becausethis disease is a chronic disorder, symptoms may also disappearfor extended periods of time, only to return unexpectedly.
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