Symptoms of Anemia Caused by Crohn's Disease

Crohn's disease is an inflammatory disease of the large intestines. When this condition develops, you often suffer an inflammation deep along your lower digestive tract. This can change the rhythmic movement of your colon, causing it to contract more than relax. For most people, diarrhea and cramping are common with this condition, but you may also begin to suffer ulcerations along the lining of your intestines. In severe cases of ulceration, it may lead to anemia due to blood loss. If this were to happen, you can begin to suffer very specific symptoms of the condition.

Bleeding

• Though not necessarily a true symptom of anemia, most people notice a certain amount of blood in their stool prior to the development of this complication. In this situation, you could see actual blood in the bowl of your toilet. But you'll most likely find that your stool is a different color than normal, appearing dark and tar-like. It is also possible to show no sign of bleeding at all before anemia sets in.

Fatigue

• Often accompanying the presence of blood is the symptom of fatigue or exhaustion. This is largely due to the loss of blood, which can impact the amount of oxygen found in your blood vessels. As oxygen levels decline, you'll generally become increasingly more fatigued or exhausted.

Discoloration

• Along with fatigue, you may notice a slight discoloration to your skin, finding yourself paler or more pallid than normal. This is also due to the decrease in red blood cells within your body. This "unexplained" paleness can also bring with it a dip in bodily temperature, frequently starting within your outermost extremities, such as your hands and feet.

Cardiovascular Issues

• As anemia due to Crohn's disease persists, you can also begin to suffer from issues involving your cardiovascular system. With the decrease in both red blood cells and oxygen, your heart can experience a rhythmic change, becoming faster than normal or beating at an uneven rate. This may prompt pain or discomfort within your chest.

Respiratory Issues

• Crohn's-related anemia has been known to trigger issues with respiration. And much like fatigue, the decline of oxygen within the blood is the main culprit. When this symptom is present, you'll experience a windedness or shortness of breath. This may occur from any sort of physical exertion, and can also cause you to feel dizzy or even faint.

Cognitive Issues

• With this lack of red blood cells and oxygen, many people suffer from a cognitive change, mostly involving an abnormal state of confusion or uncertainty. This may lead to forgetfulness or a lack of focus. In others, it may only manifest as a headache.