Crohn's Disease Specialist

This information is intended only to provide general guidance. It does not provide definitive medical advice. It is important that you consult your doctor about your specific condition.

What is Crohn’s disease?

Crohn’s disease is a chronic disorder that results from persistent inflammation in the digestive tract such as irritation, swelling, or sores. The disease can affect any part of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, from the mouth to the anus, but inflammation is most common in the small and large intestine.

Symptoms usually develop and worsen gradually over time. They also vary in intensity, so you may experience an intense period of Crohn’s disease symptoms that later go into remission, where you experience no symptoms at all.

What are the symptoms of Crohn’s disease?

The most common symptoms of Crohn’s disease include:

• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Weight loss
• Abdominal pain
• Abdominal cramping

You may also experience anemia, fatigue, nausea, fever, a poor appetite, joint pain, eye irritation, or a skin condition known as erythema nodosum where tender red bumps form under your skin. The location of your inflammation and Crohn's disease will affect what symptoms occur.

What causes Crohn’s disease?

Crohn’s disease can be the result of any of the following:

• Autoimmune disease: occurs when your immune system reacts against the lining of your intestine, mistakenly attacking healthy cells
• Genetics: the condition often runs in families, which may indicate certain genes contribute to Crohn’s disease
• Environment: factors like smoking, use of antibiotics and oral contraceptives, and a high-fat diet may influence the development of Crohn’s disease

How is Crohn’s disease diagnosed?

Dr. Harary reviews your medical history and performs a physical examination. He may request additional lab tests, including stool testing and blood work, to confirm a Crohn’s disease diagnosis.

To rule out other possible conditions, Dr. Harary may also use imaging tests such as X-rays or CT scans, or may schedule a colonoscopy or endoscopy to get a better look at your intestines, colon, and other parts of your GI tract.

What treatment options are available for Crohn’s disease?

Dr. Harary uses three primary approaches to treating Crohn’s disease:

• Medications
• Bowel rest and special diets
• Surgery

He may initially recommend medications to reduce inflammation and allow your intestine to heal. Medications may also help keep your symptoms in remission for longer periods of time. In addition to medications, Dr. Harary may suggest dietary changes when symptoms are mild.

Bowel rest may be necessary if you have severe symptoms. This means eliminating all consumption of food and drinks, except for clear fluids for one to four weeks. In some cases, intravenous (IV) fluids and nutritional supplementation is necessary, which you can receive in a hospital or as part of an in-home program.

If you’re looking for relief from chronic abdominal pain and other symptoms of Crohn’s, schedule a consultation with Dr. Harary online or by calling the office directly.