The symptoms of Crohn’s disease can vary greatly among individuals, based on the severity and location of inflammation in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Symptoms may appear gradually or suddenly, taking individuals by surprise.
The most common, general symptoms of Crohn’s include:
- Pain or cramping – Most individuals experience painful cramping in the abdominal area, usually near where the GI tract is inflamed.
- Persistent diarrhea – Individuals with Crohn’s often have loose, watery stool and an urgent need to use the bathroom.
- Bloody stool – Inflammation can cause bleeding in the intestine. Bloody stool is the most common sign of intestinal bleeding.
Other symptoms of Crohn’s disease may include:
- Loss of appetite – The upset stomach and stress that come along with an episode of Crohn’s can make it difficult, or even unappealing, to eat.
- Weight loss – Frequent diarrhea and lack of appetite can lead to unintended weight loss.
- Fever – A fever sometimes develops when the intestine becomes inflamed. There may also be an infection with Crohn’s, or the fever can be caused by medications to help treat the disease.
- Chills and night sweats – Inflammation can cause your body temperature to rise and fall, which can cause chills and night sweats.
Severe symptoms of Crohn’s disease include:
- Inflammation of the skin, eyes and joints
- Inflammation of the liver or bile ducts
- Delayed growth in children
If you experience any symptoms of Crohn’s disease, schedule an appointment with a gastroenterologist, and start managing your symptoms.
Request an appointment with Temple Health today.