Inflammation is the body’s reaction to injury or irritation, and can cause redness, swelling and pain. Although there has been a lot of research, we do not know exactly what causes Crohn’s disease. Currently it is felt to be the result of genetic factors, environmental triggers, an abnormal immune response and possibly the microbiome (the bugs that live in the gut).

Symptoms of Crohn’s disease are highly variable. Common symptoms of Crohn’s disease include:

• Abdominal pain and diarrhoea. Sometimes mucus, pus or blood is mixed with the diarrhoea.
• Tiredness and fatigue.
• Feeling generally unwell. Some people may have a raised temperature and feel feverish.
• Mouth ulcers.
• Loss of appetite and weight loss.
• Anaemia (a reduced level of red blood cells).

The CCUK information booklet (attached) is an excellent resource for patients recently diagnosed with Crohn’s disease. It covers a variety of topics and is very well researched and written. The CCUK website has a wealth of Crohn’s related information.

If you suspect you have Crohn’s disease, you should talk to a doctor.