The etiology and exact cause of Crohn’s disease are still not fully known. It is a chronic condition that cannot be completely cured. Crohn’s disease is an inflammatory bowel disease that most commonly affects the small intestine and the area where the small and large intestines meet. According to statistical data, it is more common in women than in men and typically occurs in the 35-40 age group. However, Crohn’s disease can also be seen in young children. In patients suffering from this condition, thickening of the affected areas of the digestive system and the formation of ulcers may be observed.
What are the symptoms of Crohn’s disease?
Crohn's disease symptoms include:
- Diarrhea
- Meteorism (bloating and gas)
- Abdominal pain in the gastrointestinal tract
- Blood and mucus in the stool
- Nausea and vomiting
During flare-ups of Crohn’s disease, an increase in body temperature may also be observed. Patients often experience rapid weight loss, loss of appetite, signs of anemia, general weakness, and chronic fatigue. In addition, Crohn’s disease can also lead to complications affecting other parts of the body, such as inflammation of the mucous membranes of the eyes and mouth, and acute joint pain.
What can cause exacerbation of Crohn’s disease?
- Genetic factors
- Unhealthy lifestyle, smoking, and alcohol consumption
- Unhealthy diet
Who is at risk? The risk group includes individuals with a genetic predisposition. If one of the parents in the family suffers from this disease, the likelihood of developing it is significantly higher-up to 10 times greater.
Diagnosis of Crohn’s Disease
- Blood tests
- Stool examination (fecal analysis)
- Endoscopy and colonoscopy
What laboratory and instrumental examinations are used to diagnose Crohn’s disease?
Laboratory tests include a complete blood count, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, C-reactive protein, total protein, albumin, liver function tests, and electrolytes. A complete blood count reveals anemia and leukocytosis (against the background of an inflammatory bowel disease). In acute diarrhea, a complete stool test, Clostridium difficile toxins A and B (to rule out pseudomembranous colitis), and 4 stool samples are recommended in 90% of cases. When making a diagnosis, a complete stool culture for worm eggs and parasites is performed, as well as an assessment of the level of calprotectin in the stool. Calprotectin is a protein produced by neutrophils of the intestinal mucosa. Its level increases in Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.
When should a patient consult a doctor if they have Crohn's disease?
Patients should seek medical attention not only when experiencing several of the symptoms listed below, but also when these symptoms persist regularly over a long period of time. Diagnosing intestinal diseases can sometimes be challenging, as the symptoms may overlap with other conditions. Therefore, a comprehensive examination by a gastroenterologist is essential for an accurate diagnosis.
It is recommended to consult a gastroenterologist if the following conditions are observed:
- Persistent diarrhea: Long-term and recurrent diarrhea may be associated with infectious or inflammatory causes, including intestinal diseases.
- Ongoing gastrointestinal pain: Chronic abdominal pain may be a sign of digestive system disorders, including inflammatory bowel diseases.
- Rapid weight loss without an obvious cause: Reduced food intake or metabolic disturbances may indicate serious underlying health conditions.
- Blood in the stool: This may be a sign of inflammation or other disorders within the digestive system.
Early diagnosis is extremely important for successful treatment. For example, when inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn’s disease are identified at an early stage, the patient’s quality of life can be preserved and future complications can be prevented. Laboratory and imaging examinations performed by a gastroenterologist help accurately diagnose the condition and allow appropriate treatment to begin promptly.
If you or your loved ones experience any of the symptoms listed above, it is important to seek medical attention without delay. In particular, if there is any suspicion of Crohn’s disease, consulting a doctor can help detect the condition at an early stage and ensure timely medical intervention. This approach plays a vital role in improving the patient’s overall health and reducing potential risks.
It is important to remember that early diagnosis and regular medical check-ups play a major role in the treatment of serious intestinal diseases such as Crohn’s disease. Seeking medical care whenever symptoms or concerns arise is one of the key steps in preventing long-term health complications. As a result, consulting a doctor promptly when experiencing symptoms associated with Crohn’s disease can help protect both your health and quality of life.
Prevention:
It is recommended to maintain a healthy and balanced diet on a regular basis. Developing stress management skills, improving resilience to stress, engaging in sufficient physical activity, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and avoiding alcohol consumption and smoking are also strongly recommended.
Medical Coordinator - Fidan Hasanli