Crohn’s disease is a chronic, inflammatory bowel disease that can affect any part of the digestive system, from the mouth right through to the anus. Patients often suffer from abdominal pain, diarrhoea, weight loss and constant fatigue, which significantly impairs their quality of life. Many people are apprehensive about the diagnosis and treatment, but it is important to know that modern medicine has increasingly effective tools for alleviating symptoms and keeping the disease under control. This article will help you understand the basics of Crohn’s disease, the diagnostic methods, and gain an insight into the latest treatment approaches on the horizon.
What exactly is Crohn’s disease?
Crohn’s disease is a autoimmune disease, which means that the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the cells of its own digestive system, causing inflammation. This inflammation can affect the entire thickness of the intestinal wall, and is characterised by the presence of healthy areas (known as „skip” lesions) between the affected sections of the intestine.
Typical symptoms and signs
Although symptoms may vary from person to person, the most common ones are as follows:
- Abdominal pain: It often occurs in the lower right-hand side of the abdomen.
- Diarrhoea: Recurrent, non-bloody diarrhoea.
- Weight loss and loss of appetite: Due to inflammation and malabsorption.
- Fatigue, fever: Signs of chronic inflammation in the body.
- Anaemia: As a result of iron and vitamin deficiency.
How is Crohn’s disease diagnosed?
Diagnosis is a complex process that requires several tests, as the symptoms are non-specific. The Endomedix Gastroenterology Centre Our specialists help to ensure an accurate diagnosis by following these steps:
- Medical history and physical examination: Identifying sensitive areas and pathological patterns by touch.
- Laboratory tests: Blood tests (CRP level, anaemia) and stool tests (calprotectin level (measurement).
- Endoscopic examinations:
- Colonoscopy: The most important examination; it allows the mucous membrane to be examined (for ulcers, cobblestone pattern) and a tissue sample to be taken (biopsy).
- Gastroscopy: For the examination of the stomach and duodenum in cases of upper abdominal symptoms.
- Capsule endoscopy: For the gentle examination of the hidden sections of the small intestine.
- Imaging studies: MRI enterography, CT enterography or abdominal ultrasound to assess the thickness of the bowel wall and any complications.
Complications of Crohn’s disease
If left untreated, the condition can lead to serious problems:
- Intestinal stricture (stenosis): The scar tissue is preventing the intestinal contents from passing through.
- Fistulas and abscesses: Abnormal fistulas may develop between the intestines and other organs or the skin.
- Perianal disease: Fissures and abscesses around the anus.
- Malabsorption: Nutrient and vitamin deficiencies (iron, vitamin B12, vitamin D).
Treatment options: What might 2026 bring?
The aim is to reduce inflammation, the remission (achieving remission) and preventing complications.
Expected new directions in therapy
- New-generation biological therapies: Targeted inhibition of new inflammatory pathways (interleukins, integrins).
- Small-molecule medicines (JAK inhibitors): Oral tablets, which offer a more convenient alternative to injections.
- Personalised medicine: The most effective medicine for each patient is selected on the basis of genetic factors and biomarkers.
- Microbiome-based therapies: Faecal transplants or targeted probiotic treatments to restore the balance of the gut flora.
The role of lifestyle in treatment
- Diet: A low-fibre diet during the acute phase; a balanced diet during symptom-free periods. In the event of a stricture, seeds and raw vegetables that are difficult to digest should be avoided.
- Giving up smoking: Smoking has been shown to worsen the course of the disease and increase the risk of flare-ups.
- Stress management: Relaxation techniques and yoga can help keep symptoms under control.
Please feel free to consult an expert
Early diagnosis is key to maintaining a good quality of life. The Endomedix Gastroenterology Centre Our state-of-the-art diagnostic facilities ensure that you are in the best possible hands. As science advances, the outlook for people living with Crohn’s disease is constantly improving.
