Symptoms of Crohn’s disease are pain, diarrhea, bloody stools, and nausea. Crohn’s disease can also cause ulcers, abscesses, and fistulas. These symptoms and effects can lead to certain complications.
Bowel obstruction is the most common complication in patients with Crohn’s disease. Scar tissue forms and causes the shell wall to thicken, which narrows the passage of the intestine. Severe stomach cramps and vomiting are symptoms. Flatulence and abdominal gas are common. There are medications that could help, but surgery is often necessary, especially if constipation is common.
Ulcers are not a common complication of Crohn’s disease. Ulcers in the intestinal tract. Ulcers can cause fistulas. These fistulas are like tunnels that are part of the intestine and connect to another or the intestine to other organs such as the bladder, vagina or skin. Fistulas are often infected. If the fistula is small, drugs can cure it, but large or multiple fistulas signal the need for surgery, especially if they are accompanied by persistent symptoms such as fever or abdominal pain.
Malnutrition or even malnutrition can be another complication of Crohn’s. Since nutrients are not well absorbed from the diet, patients cannot be properly fed. A lack of protein, calories and vitamins is common. Dietary compliments containing both vitamins and minerals are available in concentrated and injectable form. Medications often have to rely on supplements to make sure patients are getting the vitamins, minerals, and calories they need.
Dehydration is a common complication. Due to the diarrhea associated with Crohn’s disease, patients can easily become dehydrated. Doctors recommend that you drink plenty of fluids. The liquid should always be sipped and not swallowed. Swallowing cause gas and gas cause pain. Doctors sometimes recommend sports drinks to replace the loss of electrolytes and fluids.