Crohn’s disease is a painful inflammatory condition that affects between 400,000 and 600,000 individuals in North America alone. It is caused by a combination of factors- bacterial, environmental, immunological, and genetic. In Crohn’s disease, the affected persons immune system attacks the intestines. It was previously thought of as an autoimmune disease, but recent study has reclassified it as a state of immune deficiency.
There are no known ways to get rid of Crohn’s disease, but there are a variety of treatment options. The treatments look to control the condition and prevent relapse of the severe symptoms.
Crohn’s disease is equally found in both women and men and it can occur at any age. Smokers are twice as likely to get the disease. Many of the symptoms of Crohn’s disease are gastrointestinal in nature, but the entire body can be affected.
Here are 10 common symptoms of Crohn’s disease…
1. Abdominal Pain
Abdominal pain may be one of the first symptoms of Crohn’s disease. As the intestines become inflamed and irritated, the bowels send pain signals to the brain. As the disease progresses, ulcers may form along the large and small intestines. As food passes these injuries, a deep pain may be felt. Abdominal pain leading to vomiting can be a sign of a small bowel obstruction. If you experience regular extreme abdominal pain, talk to your doctor as Crohn’s can have many serious complications.
