The NHS is warning people to see their GP
The NHS is urging people to go to their GP if they have a key symptom that can appear anywhere on the body, but more notably, their legs. On their official website, the health experts say that if you have a “patches of painful, red and swollen skin – usually on the legs” then it could be Crohn’s disease.
This lifelong condition, which has no cure, occurs when parts of the digestive system become inflamed. It’s one type of a condition called inflammatory bowel disease which many call IBD.
What are the signs and symptoms of Crohn’s disease?
Anyone can get crohn’s disease and symptoms usually start in childhood or early adulthood. The main symptoms are:
- diarrhoea – which may come on suddenly
- stomach aches and cramps – most often in the lower-right part of your tummy
- blood in your poo
- tiredness (fatigue)
- weight loss
You might not have all these symptoms. Some people with Crohn’s disease also have:
It’s noted that symptoms may be constant or they could come and go. When they re-appear, experts refer to this as a “flare up.”
When should I see a GP?
See a GP if you or your child have:
- blood in your poo
- diarrhoea for more than 7 days
- frequent stomach aches or cramps
- lost weight for no reason, or your child’s not growing as fast as you’d expect
If your GP thinks you could have Crohn’s disease, they will refer you to a gastroenterologist for tests to confirm the diagnosis. Tests you may have include:
- a colonoscopy – a thin, flexible tube with a camera at the end is inserted into your bottom to look for inflammation in your bowel
- a biopsy – tiny pieces of your bowel are removed during a colonoscopy and checked for signs of Crohn’s disease
- an MRI scan or CT scan – you may have a special drink first to make your bowel show up clearly on the scan
What causes Crohn’s disease?
The exact cause of Crohn’s disease is unknown. There is also no evidence to suggest a particular diet causes Crohn’s disease. It’s thought several things could play a role, including:
- your genes – you’re more likely to get it if a close family member has it
- a problem with the immune system (the body’s defence against infection) that causes it to attack the digestive system
- smoking
- a previous stomach bug
- an abnormal balance of gut bacteria
