NHS Choices Condition
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Crohnâs disease is a chronic (long-term) condition that causes inflammation of the lining of the digestive system.
Inflammation usually occurs in the ileum (the last section of the small intestine), or the colon (the large intestine). However, inflammation can occur anywhere in the digestive system, from the mouth to the anus (back passage).
Over time, the inflammation that is caused by Crohnâs disease can damage sections of the digestive system, causing additional complications, such as narrowing of the colon.
Common symptoms of Crohnâs disease include:
- diarrhoea,
- abdominal pain, and
- fatigue.
The cause of Crohnâs disease is unknown. However, research suggests that a combination of environmental and genetic factors is responsible for the onset of Crohnâs disease.
How common is Crohnâs disease?
Crohnâs disease is a rare condition. For example, in the UK, it is estimated that for every 100,000 people there will be seven new cases of Crohnâs disease a year. There are currently 90,000 people living with Crohnâs disease.
Most cases of Crohnâs disease first develop in people who are between 16-30 years of age, although the condition can affect people of all ages, including children.
Crohnâs disease is more common in white people than in black people, or those of Asian descent. The condition is most prevalent among Jewish people of European descent.
Crohnâs disease affects slightly more women than men.
Outlook
The outlook for Crohnâs disease is highly variable. People can have long periods of remission that last for weeks or months where they have no, or very mild, symptoms, followed by periods where their symptoms âflare-upâ and are particularly troublesome.
There is currently no cure for Crohnâs disease. However, medication is available that can be used to treat the symptoms and prevent them from returning.
About 80% of people with Crohnâs disease will require surgery in order to relieve their symptoms, repair damage to their digestive system, and treat any associated complications of the condition.
view information about Crohns Disease on www.nhs.co.uk »Important Notice
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