Crohn's disease

A type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)

Crohn's disease is an inflammation of any part of your digestive tract — we can treat and relieve your symptoms

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What is Crohn's disease?

Crohn's disease is an inflammation of the gastrointestinal (digestive) tract. It's a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), like ulcerative colitis (UC). Unlike ulcerative colitis, Crohn's can affect any part of your digestive tract, from your mouth to your back passage. It's fairly common, affecting around 80,000 people in the UK.

Need to know

  • What are the symptoms of Crohn's disease? icon plus

    Crohn's disease can affect any part of your digestive system, but it tends to appear near the junction of the small and large intestine. The inflammation caused by Crohn's is more intense than ulcerative colitis and can lead to a narrowing in the intestine and blockages. Symptoms of Crohn's disease might include:

    • chronic diarrhoea
    • abdominal pain
    • anal inflammation and fistulas
    • weight loss
    • fatigue
    • blood and mucus in your faeces 

    The severity of these symptoms will vary over time, from mild at times to serious at others. We can help you manage your symptoms and lessen the impact of Crohn's on your life.

  • How is Crohn's disease diagnosed? icon plus

    Your consultant will discuss your symptoms with you. Depending on your symptoms, they may carry out a colonoscopy, which involves examining your digestive tract by inserting a flexible camera into your large and small intestine. They may also carry out other diagnostic tests including:

  • Treatment options for Crohn's disease icon plus

    We offer a range of treatment options for Crohn's disease that can help to relieve your symptoms and help you live a normal life. These might include:

    • anti-TNF and biologic agents to target TNF, one of the main mediators of inflammation
    • immunosuppressive drugs to keep Crohn's under control during remission
    • steroids for Crohn's in the last section of the bowel
    • special diet plans (polymeric or elemental liquid)
    • antibiotics for flare-ups or specific infections
    • 5ASA drugs
    • surgery to remove blockages in the intestine

Our gastroenterologists

We're proud to work with leading gastric experts specialising in conditions of the large and small intestine, including Crohn's disease, and whose skills are matched by their integrity and compassion.

Our locations

From complex gastrointestinal and colorectal surgery to investigative procedures, we provide exceptional care across our network of hospitals, outpatient centres and specialist clinics.

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Our team can help with any enquiries or you make an appointment with one of our experienced consultants.

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020 7079 4344
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This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.
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