What should you know about gastroduodenal Crohn's disease?

Crohn's disease can inflame different parts of the digestive tract. When the stomach or duodenum is involved, inflammation may interfere with digestion and the movement of food. Symptoms can include pain after eating, nausea, vomiting, early fullness, reduced appetite, anaemia or weight loss. Some people also have diarrhoea or symptoms from inflammation elsewhere in the bowel. The pattern is variable, so symptoms alone cannot confirm where Crohn's inflammation is active.

Arrange a GP or gastroenterology review if upper-abdominal symptoms persist, recur or affect eating. Keep a record of meals, pain, vomiting, bowel changes, weight change and medicines. Assessment may include an examination, blood tests and investigations that view the upper digestive tract. Treatment is tailored to the location and activity of inflammation and may involve prescribed anti-inflammatory or immune-modifying medicine, nutritional support and monitoring. Do not stop Crohn's treatment without medical advice.

Seek urgent help for persistent vomiting, inability to keep fluids down, severe or worsening abdominal pain, a swollen abdomen, black or bloody stools, faintness, fever with marked illness, or signs of dehydration. Prompt review is also needed for progressive difficulty eating, rapid weight loss or new weakness.

Ask which tests can show inflammation in the stomach or duodenum, whether nutritional deficiencies should be checked, and how your current Crohn's plan should change. Discuss vomiting, food triggers, bowel symptoms and warning signs that require same-day help.