Crohn’s disease is a chronic condition that causes inflammation (ex. swelling, redness or sores) in the digestive tract. It is a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Crohn’s disease can affect any part of the digestive tract, from the mouth to the anus, but it most often affects the lower small intestine and colon.
The peak age of diagnosis in children is in the early teen years, though Crohn’s disease can affect very young children as well. Having a sibling or parent with IBD increases the lifetime risk of developing Crohn’s disease. Crohn’s disease may slow growth and delay puberty.
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What are the signs and symptoms of Crohn’s disease?
The symptoms of Crohn’s disease can vary from one child to another. The symptoms may develop over time or appear more suddenly. Some of the most common symptoms in children may include:
- Abdominal pain, often in the lower right side
- Diarrhea that is sometimes bloody
- Rectal bleeding
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Delayed growth
- Joint pain
- Skin tags around the anal opening, sometimes with fissures
- Erythema nodosum, a rash in which painful red nodules appear on the shins
Please note there are many conditions that have similar symptoms. It’s important to see your child’s doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.
What causes Crohn’s disease?
Experts don’t know for sure what causes Crohn’s disease though current thinking is that there is an abnormal response of the intestinal immune system to the intestinal microbiome. There is some evidence that Western diets, often high in fat and sugars, and low in fruit, vegetables and fiber may predispose to IBD. It may also have a genetic link, since the condition can run in families.
How is Crohn’s disease treated?
There is currently no cure for Crohn’s disease, but with proper treatment it can be well managed. Treatment options can be medical or surgical depending on the location, severity and extent of disease.
Medications, such as anti-inflammatories, antibiotics, immunomodulators and biologics, can help relieve symptoms, prevent flares and help the intestines heal. It is critically important that your doctor be up-to-date on the newest therapies and how to optimize them.
If medications and diet aren’t working or if the symptoms are severe, your child may need surgery. These procedures usually involve removing sections of the gastrointestinal tract that are diseased. Our experienced multidisciplinary medical and surgical team at Connecticut Children’s will work with your family to discuss your child’s treatment options.