Crohn's disease

What is Crohn's disease?

Crohn’s disease is one type of chronic inflammatory bowel disease that may affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract. Environmental, immunologic, and bacterial factors are known to cause an immune response. This results in an inflammatory reaction of the mouth, esophagus, stomach, small bowel, large bowel, or rectum.

Common symptoms of Crohn's disease may include abdominal pain, anemia, diarrhea, fatigue, fever, joint pain, rashes, rectal bleeding, rectal fissure, or weight loss.

The disease can affect people of all ages. You may be at a higher risk if you are Caucasian and have a family history of Crohn’s. Having a diagnosis of Crohn’s increases your risk of tumors of the small bowel and colon. Some of the diagnostic procedures that a doctor may use to determine whether or not you have Crohn’s disease—along with a physical examination and medical history—may include: blood tests or stool studies; an upper endoscopy or capsule endoscopy; a colonoscopy; or a CT scan.

Mercy Medical Center in Merced can help you learn more about Crohn's disease

Talk to your doctor if you believe you are having symptoms of Crohn’s disease. To find a doctor specializing in gastrointestinal disorders, or to find a primary care physician (PCP), please use our Find A Doctor tool or call (209) 600-0391.