Crohn's Disease

Key facts

• Crohn's disease is a long-term inflammatory condition that can affect any part of the digestive tract, from the mouth to the rectum, though the small intestine and colon are the most common sites.
• It follows a pattern of flares and remission; active flares bring cramping abdominal pain, frequent loose stools (sometimes with blood), fatigue, and weight loss.
• Aminosalicylates such as mesalazine and sulfasalazine reduce mucosal inflammation and are among the most-used agents; methotrexate is used when aminosalicylates are not enough.
• Seek urgent care for a high fever, sudden severe abdominal pain, or persistent vomiting with no bowel movements.

What flares feel like

During active disease, the hallmark symptoms are cramping abdominal pain, frequent loose stools (sometimes with blood), and persistent fatigue. Weight loss is common during prolonged flares because the inflamed gut absorbs nutrients poorly. Some people develop mouth ulcers, joint pain, or skin changes alongside gut symptoms, reflecting the condition's broader autoimmune character.

Medicines used in management

There is no cure, but treatment can achieve and maintain remission. Aminosalicylates such as mesalazine and sulfasalazine reduce mucosal inflammation and are among the most-used agents. For disease that does not respond to aminosalicylates, methotrexate is an established option that dampens the immune response driving gut damage. Nutritional support and a low-residue diet during flares can also ease symptoms; the digestive health category covers the full range of management options.

When to see a doctor

Seek urgent medical attention if you develop a high fever, severe abdominal pain that comes on suddenly, or signs of obstruction such as persistent vomiting with no bowel movements. Ongoing weight loss, new blood in the stool, or symptoms that do not settle on current treatment also warrant a review, since the management plan may need adjusting.

This page is educational and does not replace advice from a doctor or pharmacist who knows your health history.