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Diagnosis of Crohn's Disease & Constipation

Crohn's disease is a condition characterized by severe inflammation of the digestive tract's lining. Crohn's disease varies in severity and may even go into remission periodically, according to the Mayo Clinic.

  1. Common Symptoms

    • Crohn's disease causes symptoms such as diarrhea, stomach pain, bloody stools, intestinal ulcers and weight loss.

    Constipation

    • Although Crohn's disease is typically characterized by diarrhea, constipation may occur when the the intestines swell and prevent waste from being excreted.

    Severe Symptoms

    • Individuals with severe Crohn's disease also may have intermittent fevers, eye inflammation, fatigue, arthritis, skin problems and inflamed bile and liver ducts, according to the Mayo Clinic.

    Diagnosis

    • Before making a diagnosis of Crohn's disease, physicians will likely rule out other digestive disorders. Diagnostic tools may include blood tests, stool tests, colonoscopy, x-rays, CT scans and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

    Treatments

    • Crohn's disease is treated with prescription anti-inflammatory medications, antibiotics, corticosteroids and medications that suppress the immune system, according to the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation of America. Symptoms may be eased with anti-diarrheal medications, laxatives and pain relievers.

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