About Chrons Disease

I have had a few queries from people asking what is Chrons Disease? (correctly spelt Crohn's disease)

Chrons disease is a chronic and debilitating inflammatory disease of the
gastrointestinal tract. The onset of Chrons disease often occurs between the ages of 18-25, but can begin much later in life aswell.

As Chrons disease is a chronic ailment, people go through unpredictable periods in which the disease flares and causes symptoms. These episodes are followed by times
of remission in these periods the symptoms disappear or decrease and good health
returns.

Canada has one of the highest incidence and prevalence of Chrons disease in the world and chrons disease is much more common in developed nations.

The cause of Chrons disease is not really known but it is believed to be an autoimmune disease that has links to genetics. The condition occurs when the immune system contributes to damage of the gastrointestinal tract by causing inflammation.

There is no known medical or surgical cure for Chrons disease, unlike the other major type of IBD, ulcerative colitis.

Many people live with Chrons disease for many years and don't realise it. The usual onset of chrons disease is between 15 and 30 years of age, with no difference in numbers or chances of getting the disease between men and women.

Chrons disease, can cause a variety of systemic symptoms. Growth failure is common in children with Chrons disease and many children are first diagnosed with Chrons disease based on inability to maintain growth. Fever may also be present

Older people who have Chrons disease may manifest as weight loss. This is usually related to decreased food intake, since individuals with intestinal symptoms from Chrons disease often feel better when they do not eat and might lose their appetite.

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