Crohn's Disease
Frequently Asked Questions
None Available At This Time
Description
Crohn's Disease, which may also be known as ileitis or enteritis, is a disorder that causes inflammation of the digestive tract.
The most common symptoms of Crohn's disease are abdominal pain and diarrhea. Because these symptoms are also common in other diseases, a thorough physical exam and a series of tests may be required to diagnose Crohn's disease.
Tests may include a blood test to check for anemia (which may indicate bleeding in the intestines), or an upper GI series to use x-rays to reveal inflammation or other abnormalities. The doctor may also conduct a visual examination by performing a sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy to examine the large intestine.
Crohn's disease affects men and women equally, and can occur in people of all ages.
(Image used by permission of the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health.)
Sources of Additional Information
- National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse
- Crohn's Disease
- (An overview of the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, complications, and treatment of Crohn's disease.)
Free Pamphlet From NDDIC: Crohn's Disease
