Crohn’s disease is a serious condition that can impact your physical and mental health. It is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that impacts your digestive tract, including your small and large intestines. Often accompanied by a number of unwanted symptoms, Crohn’s disease can cause abdominal pain, diarrhea, and fatigue. These are just a few of the unwanted symptoms. In fact, Crohn’s disease can impact your daily life, especially if it flares up unexpectedly. If left untreated, it can lead to serious health complications. Below you will find the common risk factors for Crohn disease and what to look out for in terms of symptoms.
Risk Factors for Crohn Disease
There are a number of factors that can increase your risk for Crohn’s disease. Consider the following and talk with a gastroenterologist about how to reduce your risk for the condition.
Age:
While the condition can occur at any age, younger people are more likely to develop the condition. In fact, most people who develop Crohn’s disease are diagnosed before the age of 30. If you have any of the symptoms of the condition, it’s important to seek treatment from a Los Angeles gastroenterology specialist right away.
Ethnicity:
The condition can impact those of any ethnicity, but certain groups are at a higher risk. Those who are white, especially those from Eastern Europe or of Jewish descent are at a higher risk for developing Crohn’s disease. However, the condition is increasing among Black people living in the United States and United Kingdom, in addition to those of Middle Eastern descent who have immigrated to the United States.
Family History:
Genetics play a major role when it comes to your risk level for Crohn’s disease. In fact, nearly 20% of people with the disease also have a family member who has it as well. If you have a close relative with the condition, you are at an increased risk for Crohn’s disease.
Smoking:
If you smoke it can substantially increase your risk for the disease. Smoking is not good for your overall health so it’s important to stop. This is because smoking is the most important controllable factor in developing Crohn’s disease. If you do develop it, being a smoker can also lead to an increased risk for surgery and more severe symptoms of the disease.
NSAIDs:
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (“NSAIDs”) can lead to bowel inflammation. This can make your Crohn’s disease much worse. While NSAIDs do not cause the disease, they can cause more complications. This includes over-the-counter medications, such as ibuprofen and naproxen sodium.
Symptoms of Crohn’s Disease
The disease can impact any part of your small or large intestines. This means that it can be just a portion, or your entire small and large intestines. The signs and symptoms of Crohn’s disease can vary from person to person. Consider the symptoms of the disease and contact a medical professional right away if you experience one or more of the following.
- Diarrhea, abdominal pain, or cramping
- Blood in your stool
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Reduced appetite and weight loss
- Mouth sores
- Pain or leakage near or around your anus
- Inflammation
- Kidney stones
Crohn’s Disease Treatment
Crohn’s disease is a serious condition and requires medical intervention. You should seek treatment if you experience any of the aforementioned symptoms. Untreated Crohn’s can lead to more harmful health issues. A Crohn’s disease treatment specialist can help diagnose the disease and provide you with a treatment plan based on your unique needs. Some patients have mild symptoms, while others are more severe. Additionally, sometimes the symptoms can appear suddenly, while in other patients it’s more gradual. Due to the complexity of the condition, it’s important to work with a skilled and experienced medical provider.
