Crohn's disease is an inflammatory bowel disease that causes patches of inflammation in the digestive tract, often near the end of the small intestine in the
colon. As a result, the intestines may empty more frequently, which can cause chronic
diarrhea. Additional symptoms include abdominal pain (stomach pain), weight loss, and vomiting.
The condition can be diagnosed with a number of tests, such as:
- Blood tests
- Colonoscopy
- Stool sample
- Computed tomography (CT) scan.
Although researchers are still not sure what exactly causes it, there may be several factors involved, including genetic problems, environmental factors, and problems with the immune system. Options to treat this condition include medications, lifestyle changes, and possibly surgery. In particular, dietary changes -- such as identifying and avoiding foods that make your symptoms worse -- are often recommended.
(Click Crohn's Disease for more info, including other names for the condition, how many people are affected, and how Crohn's disease differs from ulcerative colitis.)
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