Complications Associated with Crohn's Disease

by John Wiley

The symptoms of Crohn’s Disease are pain, diarrhea, bloody stool and nausea. Crohn’s can also cause ulcers abscesses and fistulas. These symptoms and effects can cause some complications.

Intestinal obstruction is the most common complication that occurs in Crohn’s patients. Scar tissue forms and causes a thickening of the bowl wall which narrows the intestinal passage. Severe cramping in the abdomen and vomiting are the symptoms. Bloating and distention of the abdomen are common. There are medications that might help but surgery is often required especially if obstructions occur frequently.

Ulcers are another common complication with crohns disease.

The ulcers form in the intestinal tract. Ulcers can cause fistulas. These fistulas are like tunnels that form and connect one part of the intestine to another or the intestine to other organs such as the bladder, the vagina or the skin. Fistulas often become infected. If the fistula is small, medications may heal it but large or multiple fistulas signal the need for surgery, especially if they are accompanied by persistent symptoms like fever or abdominal pain.

Nutritional deficiencies or even malnutrition can be another Crohn’s complication. Because nutrients from food are not absorbed well, patients cannot get sufficient nutrition. Deficiencies of proteins,

calories and vitamins are common. Nutritional supplements, containing both vitamins and minerals are available in concentrated form and in injectable form, as well. Doctors must often rely on supplements to insure that patients get the necessary vitamins, minerals and calories they require.

Dehydration is a common complication. Because of diarrhea associated with Crohn’s Disease, patients can easily become dehydrated. Doctors recommend consuming a lot of liquids. Liquids should always be sipped and not gulped. Gulping causes gas and gas causes pain. Doctors sometimes recommend sports drinks to replace the loss of electrolytes as well as fluids.

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