Crohn's Disease is a chronic inflammatory condition that can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract, from the mouth to the anus. It occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy digestive tissue, leading to swelling, ulcers, and difficulty absorbing nutrients.
Symptoms often come and go, with flare-ups and remission periods. Watch for:
While the exact cause is unknown, several factors may trigger Crohn's Disease:
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Crohn's Disease can cause inflammation anywhere along the gastrointestinal tract-from mouth to anus-and often penetrates deeper into the bowel wall. Ulcerative colitis is limited to the colon's inner lining and starts in the rectum.
The general ICD-10 code for Crohn's Disease is K50. Subcategories (e.g., K50.0 for small intestine involvement or K50.1 for colonic involvement) specify the exact location and presentation.
A Crohn's-friendly diet often includes low-fiber or soft foods such as cooked vegetables, white rice, lean proteins (chicken, fish, eggs), and lactose-free dairy. Keeping a food diary helps identify personal trigger foods.
Milder cases may respond to 5-ASA (aminosalicylates) or short-term steroids. Moderate to severe cases often need immunomodulators (azathioprine) or biologics (infliximab, adalimumab) to control inflammation.
Diagnosis typically involves a colonoscopy with biopsy, cross-sectional imaging (CT or MRI enterography), blood tests for markers of inflammation, and stool studies to exclude infections.
Yes. Women may notice increased bloating, abdominal cramps, or joint pain around their menstrual cycle. Hormonal fluctuations can sometimes worsen gastrointestinal symptoms.
"Crohn's Disease face" refers to oral signs of inflammation such as swollen lips, mouth ulcers, or angular cheilitis (cracks at the corners of the mouth), indicating active disease.
Many patients manage mild symptoms at home through diet modification, stress reduction (yoga, therapy), hydration, and regular follow-up with their GI specialist. Always report new or worsening symptoms.
Surgery is considered when medications fail to relieve symptoms or complications arise-such as bowel obstructions, abscesses, fistulas, or severe bleeding. Procedures may remove damaged sections or widen narrowed areas.
GastroDoxs in Houston offers board-certified Crohn's specialists, rapid diagnostic testing, personalized treatment plans, and comprehensive diet/lifestyle support. Call or book online for expert care.
