Symptoms of Crohn’s Disease
The most common initial symptoms of Crohn's disease are abdominal pain, cramping, and diarrhea. Pain usually arises at or below the navel, often in the lower right portion of the abdomen. These symptoms tend to show up after meals. Other symptoms may include:
- Loss of appetite
- Rectal bleeding
- Weight loss
- Fever
- Joint pain
- Fatigue
- Anal skin tags
- Fistulas
Talk to your gastroenterologist if you are experiencing any of these symptoms. A timely and accurate diagnosis is crucial in getting the right treatment.
Conditions with similar symptoms
Other inflammatory bowel diseases, such as ulcerative colitis, have symptoms similar to those of Crohn’s disease. This can be confusing sometimes, which is another reason why you need to consult with a gastroenterologist to help you determine whether you have Crohn’s disease or another condition.
Other conditions that can cause abdominal symptoms such as intense pain or diarrhea include:
- Ulcerative colitis
- Appendicitis
- Irritable bowel syndrome
- Diverticulitis
- Peptic ulcer disease
- Inflammation of the gallbladder or pancreas
