Crohn's Disease: Symptoms, Treatment, and Clinical Trials
Crohn's disease is a long-term inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Unlike ulcerative colitis, it can affect any part of the digestive tract, from the mouth to the anus. It most often involves the end of the small intestine and the beginning of the colon.
Symptoms
- Belly pain and cramping, often in the lower right side
- Diarrhea
- Weight loss and tiredness
- Fever during flares
- Sores or abscesses around the anus (fistulas)
Diagnosis
Diagnosis usually combines a colonoscopy with biopsies, blood and stool tests, and imaging such as CT or MRI of the small bowel. Sometimes a capsule endoscopy is used to see parts of the small intestine a colonoscope can't reach.
Treatment
The goal is to control inflammation, heal the bowel, and prevent complications such as narrowing (strictures) and fistulas.
- Biologic medicines given by infusion or injection, which target specific parts of the immune system
- Small-molecule pills that calm the immune response
- Immunomodulators such as azathioprine or methotrexate
- Steroids for short-term control of flares
- Nutrition support when needed
- Surgery for strictures, fistulas, or disease that doesn't respond to medicine
Starting effective treatment early can change the course of the disease. We help you choose a plan that fits your disease and your insurance.
Living with Crohn's
- Don't smoke: it makes Crohn's worse
- Keep taking your medicine even when you feel well
- Check vitamin B12, vitamin D, and iron levels
- Stay up to date on vaccines and colon cancer screening
Clinical trials now enrolling
Our practice is enrolling adults with Crohn's disease in clinical trials of new treatments. See our Clinical Trials page or call 626-898-4560.
Make an appointment
Our gastroenterologists in Temple City care for patients from Arcadia, San Gabriel, Pasadena, Monrovia, Monterey Park, and across the San Gabriel Valley. We accept most PPO plans (see accepted insurances), and our doctors speak English, Vietnamese, and Mandarin. Schedule an appointment or call 626-898-4560.
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for medical advice. Talk with your doctor about your own health.
Quick Answers
What is the difference between Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis?
Ulcerative colitis affects only the lining of the colon. Crohn's disease can affect any part of the digestive tract, most often the end of the small intestine, and can involve the full thickness of the bowel wall.
Are there Crohn's disease clinical trials near me?
Yes. Our Temple City practice is enrolling adults with Crohn's disease in clinical trials. Call 626-898-4560 to learn more.
Does smoking affect Crohn's disease?
Yes. Smoking makes Crohn's disease worse and increases the chance of flares and surgery. Quitting is one of the most helpful steps you can take.
