Understanding Crohn's Disease: Key Warning Signs and Symptoms

Primary Warning Signs

Digestive Symptoms

• Persistent diarrhea
• Abdominal pain and cramping
• Blood in stool
• Reduced appetite
• Unexplained weight loss

Systemic Symptoms

• Fatigue
• Fever
• Night sweats
• Delayed growth in children

Less Common Warning Signs

Extra-intestinal Manifestations

• Joint pain or swelling
• Eye inflammation
• Skin problems (erythema nodosum)
• Mouth sores

When to Seek Medical Care

Urgent Symptoms

• Severe abdominal pain
• High fever (>101°F/38.3°C)
• Excessive vomiting
• Significant blood in stool
• Severe diarrhea that leads to dehydration

Regular Monitoring

• Unexplained symptoms lasting >2 weeks
• Gradual worsening of existing symptoms
• New symptoms developing

Risk Factors

• Family history of IBD
• Smoking
• Age (most common between 15-35)
• Eastern European Jewish descent
• Living in urban, industrialized areas

Prevention and Management

• Regular medical check-ups
• Maintaining a symptom diary
• Following prescribed treatment plans
• Avoiding trigger foods
• Stress management
• Smoking cessation