10 Commonly Overlooked Undiagnosed Crohn’s Disease Symptoms

Commonly Overlooked Undiagnosed Crohn’s Disease Symptoms

Crohn’s disease, a type of inflammatory bowel disease, affects millions of individuals worldwide. Despite its prevalence, the symptoms of this chronic condition can be easily overlooked or misdiagnosed. This often results in delayed treatment and worsening of the condition.

Here are ten commonly overlooked symptoms of Crohn’s disease that you should keep an eye out for:

1. Mouth Sores

Mouth sores, also known as canker sores, are painful ulcers that develop on the inside of the mouth. While they can be caused by several factors, they are often a symptom of Crohn’s disease. These sores can appear as red, swollen, or white patches and can make it difficult to eat or drink.

2. Joint Pain

Joint pain is a common symptom of Crohn’s disease that is often overlooked. It can affect any joint in the body and can range from mild to severe. In some cases, joint pain can occur before any digestive symptoms manifest, making it difficult to identify the underlying cause.

3. Skin Rashes

Skin rashes, such as psoriasis, can be a sign of underlying inflammation caused by Crohn’s disease. These rashes can appear as scaly patches or raised bumps and can be itchy or painful.

4. Eye Inflammation

Eye inflammation, also known as uveitis, is a common complication of Crohn’s disease. It can cause pain, redness, and blurred vision and can lead to permanent vision loss if left untreated.

5. Fatigue

Fatigue is a common symptom of Crohn’s disease that is often overlooked. It can be caused by anemia, a common complication of the condition, or due to the body’s increased effort to fight inflammation.

6. Mouth Dryness

Mouth dryness can occur due to reduced saliva production caused by the inflammation associated with Crohn’s disease. Dry mouth can make it difficult to chew or swallow, leading to further complications.

7. Fever

Fever is a common symptom of Crohn’s disease that can occur during flare-ups. It can indicate the presence of an infection or inflammation and should be monitored closely.

8. Bowel Changes

Bowel changes, including diarrhea and constipation, are common symptoms of Crohn’s disease. However, changes in bowel habits are often ignored or attributed to other factors.

9. Abdominal Pain

Abdominal pain is a common symptom of Crohn’s disease that is often overlooked. It can range from mild discomfort to severe pain and can be localized or spread throughout the abdomen.

10. Rectal Bleeding

Rectal bleeding is a common complication of Crohn’s disease and can be caused by inflammation or ulcers in the digestive tract. It should be taken seriously and reported to a healthcare professional immediately.

It is important to recognize and report these symptoms to a healthcare professional as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent further complications and improve long-term outcomes. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, speak to your healthcare professional to determine the underlying cause.

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