How does crohns disease effect growth?

Crohn's disease can affect growth in children and adolescents. This is because the inflammation caused by the disease can damage the lining of the small intestine, where nutrients are absorbed. As a result, children and adolescents with Crohn's disease may not get the nutrients they need to grow properly.

In addition, Crohn's disease can also cause inflammation in the joints, which can lead to pain and stiffness. This can make it difficult for children and adolescents to participate in physical activities, which can further stunt their growth.

The following are some of the ways that Crohn's disease can affect growth:

* Malabsorption: Crohn's disease can damage the lining of the small intestine, where nutrients are absorbed. This can lead to malabsorption, which is a condition in which the body does not get the nutrients it needs from food. Malabsorption can cause weight loss, stunted growth, and other health problems.

* Inflammation: Crohn's disease can also cause inflammation in the joints, which can lead to pain and stiffness. This can make it difficult for children and adolescents to participate in physical activities, which can further stunt their growth.

* Medications: Some medications used to treat Crohn's disease, such as corticosteroids, can also cause growth problems. Corticosteroids can suppress the production of growth hormone, which is essential for growth.

Crohn's disease can have a significant impact on growth in children and adolescents. If your child has Crohn's disease, it is important to talk to their doctor about how the disease may affect their growth and to develop a plan to monitor and manage their growth.