Crohn's disease [regional enteritis]
Crohn's disease is a chronic condition causing long-term inflammation, or swelling and irritation, anywhere along your digestive tract.
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Crohn's disease is a type of inflammatory bowel disease that can affect any part of your digestive system, which is the long tube that runs from your mouth to your bottom where your body breaks down food. It most commonly affects the end of your small intestine, known as the ileum, or the beginning of your large intestine, which is called the colon.
When you have Crohn’s, your immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells in your gut. This creates patches of inflammation that can go deep into the layers of your intestinal walls, leading to pain and other symptoms.
Common Symptoms
- Persistent diarrhea that lasts for several weeks.
- Stomach pain and cramping, often in the lower right side.
- Blood in your stool, which is the waste your body passes after a bowel movement.
- Feeling very tired or exhausted, known as fatigue.
- Unintended weight loss and a decrease in appetite.
- Fever or feeling like you have an infection.