Crohn's Disease Specialist

What is Crohn’s disease?

Crohn’s disease is a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that may affect any part of your digestive tract — from your mouth to your anus. However, Crohn’s disease most often causes inflammation in the small intestine.

With Crohn’s disease, the inflammation affects the deep layers of your digestive tract. By comparison, ulcerative colitis only causes inflammation of the innermost lining of the large intestine.

Researchers theorize that genetics may play a role in the development of Crohn’s disease. The use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and cigarette smoking may also increase your risk of developing IBD. 

What are the symptoms of Crohn’s disease?

Crohn’s disease may affect any part of your digestive tract and symptoms vary in type and severity. Common symptoms of Crohn’s disease include:

• Abdominal pain and cramping
• Diarrhea
• Fatigue
• Unexpected weight loss
• Fever
• Mouth sores
• Bloody stools

In most cases, Crohn’s disease symptoms are mild to start with and worsen over time. However, some people experience severe symptoms right away.

When left untreated, Crohn’s disease may affect the structure and function of your digestive tract, leading to malabsorption, malnutrition, or fistulas (inflammation that tunnels through the wall of the digestive tract). 

How is Crohn’s disease diagnosed?

Dr. Steele is an experienced gastroenterologist and conducts a comprehensive evaluation when you come in with gastrointestinal complaints. During your visit, he reviews your symptoms, looks at your medical and family history, and performs a physical exam.

To confirm or rule out a diagnosis, Dr. Steele may run bloodwork or stool tests. He may also perform a colonoscopy or capsule endoscopy to evaluate the lining of your digestive system to find the areas of inflammation.

How is Crohn’s disease treated?

Treatment for Crohn’s disease focuses on symptom management. Dr. Steele customizes your treatment plan based on the location of your inflammation, the severity of your symptoms, and your medical needs. 

Treatment for Crohn’s disease may include:

• Diet modification
• Anti-inflammatory medications (e.g., corticosteroids, oral 5-aminosalicylates)
• Immune system suppressors (e.g., azathioprine, methotrexate)
• Biologics
• Antibiotics
• Antidiarrheals

When medical treatments fail to alleviate your symptoms or you have Crohn’s disease complications such as a fistula or abscess, Dr. Steele may recommend surgery to remove the diseased portion of your bowel.

To schedule an appointment with the gastrointestinal expert, call the office of Stephen Steele, MD, or book online today.