Severe Crohn's Disease

Facing Crohn's disease can be overwhelming when symptoms become severe, but this chronic illness is not considered fatal, according to the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America. Even after drastic treatments to keep the disease under control, a full, productive life is possible. (Reference 4)

Definition

• Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis are collectively called inflammatory bowel disease. The immune system overreacts causing severe inflammation that damages the digestive tract. (Reference 1)

Symptoms

• Crohn's disease symptoms include diarrhea, abdominal pain and bleeding. In severe Crohn's cases, these symptoms are so debilitating that normal daily life is not possible without treatment. Infections and excessive bleeding are life-threatening.(Reference 1, 2, 3)

Diagnosis

• In addition to a review of symptoms, doctors use three general types of tests to confirm a diagnosis of Crohn's disease. These include scopes to look at various parts of the digestive tract, blood and tissue testing, and X-rays. (Reference 2)

Treatment

• Severe Crohn's disease often does not improve with medication. Surgery to remove affected areas or to repair damage caused by Crohn's may be necessary. According to the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America, Crohn's complications that require surgery include intestinal blockages, excessive bleeding, bowel perforation, infection and loss of muscle tone in the colon. (Reference 3)

Cause and Prevention

• The specific cause of Crohn's disease is not known, but it does appear to run in families. Some of the most severe complications result when Crohn's is left untreated, but proper diagnosis and treatment will not prevent Crohn's disease from becoming severe. (Reference 1)