Crohn’s Disease

What is Crohn’s Disease?
Crohn’s disease is a chronic autoimmune condition that causes inflammation anywhere in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, from the mouth to the anus. It most often affects the ileum (end of the small intestine) and the beginning of the colon. Symptoms can range from mild to severe, and the disease may have periods of remission. Crohn’s usually affects people between ages 15 and 35, with roughly one million cases in the U.S., representing about half of all inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) cases.

Causes
The exact cause is unknown, but Crohn’s disease is linked to:

• Family history or genetic factors (5–20% have a first-degree relative with Crohn’s)
• Immune system dysfunction, where the body reacts to normally harmless gut bacteria

Diet or stress can worsen symptoms but do not cause the disease.

Symptoms
Crohn’s disease can cause:

• Abdominal pain or cramps
• Urgent or frequent bowel movements
• Persistent diarrhea
• Rectal bleeding

Other possible signs include:

• Fever or fatigue
• Reduced appetite and weight loss
• Malnutrition or anemia
• Night sweats

Some patients may have few symptoms, but certain foods can trigger flare-ups.

Diagnosis
There is no single test for Crohn’s disease. Diagnosis usually involves ruling out other conditions and using several tests. Patients that suspect Crohn’s disease are referred to gastroenterologists who may perform tests such as blood and stool studies, endoscopy and scans.

Treatment
While there is no cure, treatment can control symptoms and promote healing:

• Medication – Suppresses inflammation and allows the GI tract to heal
• Nutrition – Adjusting diet can reduce flare-ups
• Surgery – Required if medication and diet fail. Around 70% of patients eventually need surgery for complications such as fistulas, strictures, or obstructions. Surgery often involves removing the affected section of bowel (resection).

We work hand in hand with your gastroenterology physicians to treat our patients. Sometimes, surgery is needed to treat certain complications. That is when you are referred to us. CSA has the most experienced surgeons in the Midwest for Crohn’s Disease surgical treatment.

Our surgeons often use minimally invasive techniques, such as laparoscopic or Da Vinci® robotic-assisted surgery, which allow for greater precision, faster recovery, reduced pain, and fewer complications.