What is Crohn’s disease

Crohn’s disease is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that causes inflammation anywhere in the gastrointestinal tract, most commonly in the small intestine and the beginning of the colon. The inflammation can extend through the entire thickness of the bowel wall, leading to a range of symptoms that come and go in cycles of flare-ups and remission. Crohn’s is a lifelong condition, but with expert care, many people achieve long-term symptom control and improved quality of life.

Common Symptoms

• Abdominal pain and cramping
• Chronic diarrhea (sometimes bloody)
• Fatigue or low energy
• Reduced appetite and weight loss
• Fever
• Mouth sores
• Urgency or frequent bowel movements
• Joint pain or skin irritation (extraintestinal manifestations)
• Flare-ups may alternate with periods of remission

What Causes Crohn’s Disease?

The exact cause of Crohn’s disease is unknown, but research suggests a combination of factors. The disease is not caused by something you did or ate—it is an autoimmune condition with complex origins.

• Immune system dysfunction: the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the GI tract
• Genetics: a family history of IBD increases the risk
• Environmental triggers such as infections, diet, smoking, and stress
• Microbiome imbalance: changes in gut bacteria may contribute

How Crohn’s Disease Is Diagnosed

Diagnosis begins with a careful review of symptoms, lab results, and imaging studies. Your doctor may order a combination of tests, since no single test definitively diagnoses Crohn’s disease. Tests help rule out other causes and confirm inflammation.

• Blood tests to check for anemia, inflammation, or nutrient deficiencies
• Stool tests to rule out infections or inflammation
• Colonoscopy to inspect the colon and terminal ileum, often with biopsies
• Upper endoscopy if upper gastrointestinal involvement is suspected
• MR enterography or CT enterography to assess the small intestine
• Capsule endoscopy for small bowel evaluation if other imaging is inconclusive

Types of Crohn’s Disease

Crohn’s disease can affect different parts of the digestive tract. The location and depth of inflammation influence symptoms and treatment.

• Ileocolitis (most common): inflammation of the ileum and colon
• Ileitis: affects only the ileum
• Gastroduodenal Crohn’s: affects the stomach and duodenum
• Jejunoileitis: patchy inflammation in the upper small intestine
• Crohn’s colitis: affects only the large intestine

Treatment Options

While there is no cure, many patients manage Crohn’s disease effectively with a personalized treatment plan. Treatment focuses on inducing remission during flares, maintaining remission long-term, and preventing complications.

• Medications
• Aminosalicylates (5-ASAs) sometimes used in mild cases
• Corticosteroids for short-term use to reduce active inflammation
• Immunomodulators such as azathioprine or methotrexate to suppress immune response
• Biologics like infliximab, adalimumab, or ustekinumab to target specific inflammatory pathways
• JAK inhibitors as newer oral options for moderate to severe cases
• Antibiotics for infections or fistula-related complications
• Nutrition Support
• Nutritional therapy may be recommended, especially in children
• Vitamin and mineral supplementation (B12, iron, vitamin D) is often needed
• Diet modifications based on tolerance (low-fiber, low-residue during flares)
• Surgery
• Strictures or bowel obstructions
• Abscesses or fistulas
• Severe disease that doesn’t respond to medication

Surgery is not a cure but can significantly improve symptoms and quality of life.

Complications of Crohn’s Disease

• Intestinal strictures and obstructions
• Fistulas (abnormal connections between organs)
• Malabsorption and nutritional deficiencies
• Increased risk of colon cancer, especially with long-standing disease
• Psychological stress or depression

Ongoing monitoring helps detect and prevent complications early.

Ongoing Care and Monitoring

• Periodic lab tests to monitor inflammation and medication side effects
• Routine colonoscopy for cancer surveillance
• Imaging to monitor disease activity
• Coordination with nutrition and behavioral health support

Why Choose Salem Gastro for Crohn’s Care

• Board-certified IBD specialists
• On-site lab testing, endoscopy, and imaging coordination
• Personalized treatment plans
• Experienced in managing complex cases and biologic therapies
• Close communication with your primary care or referring physician

Take the First Step Toward Relief

If you’re experiencing symptoms of Crohn’s disease or have been diagnosed and need help managing your care, our team is here to help. Request a consultation to discuss your symptoms, testing options, and treatment strategies.