Crohn’s disease is an inflammatory bowel disease that shares many of the same symptoms as ulcerative colitis, another type of IBD, however the areas affected in the gastrointestinal tract (GI tract) are different. Crohn’s most commonly affects the end of the small bowel and the beginning of the colon, but it may affect any part of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, from the mouth to the anus. It can also affect the overall thickness of the bowel wall. Those diagnosed with Crohn’s disease learn that the inflammation of the intestine can “skip,”leaving normal areas in between patches of diseased intestine.
Identifying and recognizing the signs and symptoms of Crohn’s disease is important.
Signs of an inflamed GI tract include:
- Persistent Diarrhea
- Rectal bleeding
- Urgent need to move bowels
- Abdominal cramps and pain
- Sensation of incomplete evacuation
- Constipation (can lead to bowel obstruction)
Other general symptoms that can be associated with inflammatory bowel diseases include fever, loss of appetite, weight loss, fatigue, night sweats, and loss of normal menstrual cycle.
Southeast Valley Gastroenterology (SEVG) is a well established, academically oriented group in metropolitan Phoenix that specializes in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of gastrointestinal diseases. At SEVG, our goal is to provide high quality, state-of-the-art medical care where the patient’s well-being is always the primary consideration.
Contact us today if you are showing symptoms of Crohn’s or other inflammatory bowel diseases. We provide comprehensive care including all endoscopic services (Screening Colonoscopy, Upper Endoscopy, Endoscopic Ultrasound, ERCP, Capsule Endoscopy) and consultative care. It is our vision to be the region’s leading comprehensive center for the treatment of digestive disorders where service excellence and patient experience remain the number one goal.