Crohn's disease mostly occurs in the form of long-lasting and recurrent diarrhoea and cramp-like pain, in particular on the right of the lower abdomen. Further symptoms may include fever, weight loss and anaemia. A lab test can also check whether there is blood in the stool, so-called occult blood loss.

Sometimes bloating and fistulas, i.e. tubular connections between an affected section and other intestinal loops or organs, occur. Furthermore, cavities filled with pus (abscesses) may develop.

In addition, Crohn's disease may trigger a range of concomitant diseases outside the bowel, so-called extraintestinal manifestations:    

What causes Crohn's disease?

The causes of Crohn's disease are still not completely clear today. Only risk factors are associated with the chronic disease. As well as a hereditary predisposition, nicotine consumption, an impaired intestinal barrier and environmental influences such as infections, stress and an unbalanced diet promote the development of Crohn's disease.