Crohn’s Disease is an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) characterized by chronic inflammation in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Unlike ulcerative colitis, which only affects the colon, Crohn’s Disease can affect any part of the GI tract from the mouth to the anus. This inflammation can extend through all layers of the bowel wall, leading to complications such as strictures (narrowing of the bowel) and fistulae (abnormal connections between bowel loops).

Types of Crohn’s Disease

• Ileocolitis: Affects the end of the small intestine (ileum) and the colon.
• Ileitis: Involves only the ileum.
• Gastroduodenal Crohn’s Disease: Affects the stomach and the beginning of the small intestine (duodenum).
• Jejunoileitis: Causes patchy areas of inflammation in the upper half of the small intestine (jejunum).
• Crohn’s (Granulomatous) Colitis: Affects only the colon.

Crohn’s Disease Symptoms

• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhea
• Rectal bleeding
• Weight loss
• Fatigue
• Bowel obstruction
• Abscess formation
• Fistulae development

Crohn’s Disease Causes

• Genetic Factors: Family history of IBD increases the risk.
• Environmental Triggers: Factors like smoking, diet, and stress may contribute.
• Immune Response: Abnormal immune response attacking the GI tract lining.

Crohn’s Disease Diagnosis

• Clinical Evaluation: Assessment of symptoms and medical history.
• Imaging Studies: CT scan or MRI to view the GI tract.
• Endoscopic Procedures:
  • Upper GI Endoscopy (EGD)
  • Colonoscopy with Ileoscopy: Examination of the colon and terminal ileum.
• Biopsies: Taken during endoscopy to check for chronic inflammation and ulceration.

Crohn’s Disease Treatment

• Medications:
  • Biologic Therapy: Includes infliximab, adalimumab, vedolizumab, and ustekinumab.
  • Anti-inflammatory Drugs: Reduce inflammation in the GI tract.
  • Immune System Suppressors: Prevent the immune system from attacking the bowel.
• Lifestyle Changes: Diet modification, quitting smoking, and stress management.
• Surgery: Required in severe cases to remove damaged sections of the GI tract.

Crohn’s Disease Risk Factors

• Age: Most commonly diagnosed in young adults.
• Ethnicity: Higher prevalence in Caucasians and people of Eastern European Jewish descent.
• Family History: Increased risk if a close relative has IBD.
• Smoking: Increases severity and likelihood of Crohn’s Disease.
• Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Medications (NSAIDs): May exacerbate symptoms.

Meet Your Stomach Specialist

At Redding Gastro Care, Dr. Paramvir Singh, a leading gastroenterologist in Redding, CA, specializes in diagnosing and treating Crohn’s Disease. With comprehensive care and advanced treatments, we aim to manage your condition effectively and improve your quality of life.

For expert Crohn’s Disease treatment and consultation, contact Redding Gastro Care today.