Health Tip: Understanding Crohn's Disease

(HealthDay News) - Crohn''s disease is an inflammatory bowel disease that causes ulcers to form along the gastrointestinal tract.

Symptoms may range from mild to severe; some severe cases may require surgery.

Here''s more information about Crohn''s disease, courtesy of the American Academy of Family Physicians:

• Symptoms often include stomach cramps, diarrhea and bloody stools.
• Additional signs may include fatigue, nausea and joint pain.
• For mild forms, antibiotics and drugs called salicylates may help. Steroids are generally prescribed for people with more severe disease.
• Crohn''s cannot be cured, but many people who are treated have no symptoms for long periods.

-- Diana Kohnle

Last Updated: Oct. 19, 2007

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