IBD and Crohn's disease: what should I know?

Crohn's disease can cause inflammation in patches, often involving the end of the small bowel or the large bowel, although other areas can be affected. Common presentations include abdominal pain, diarrhoea, tiredness, reduced appetite and weight loss. Symptoms can settle for a time and then return. Abdominal pain or diarrhoea has many possible causes, so these symptoms do not by themselves diagnose Crohn's disease.

Arrange a GP Consultation if bowel symptoms persist, recur or interfere with daily life. The clinician may ask about stool changes, pain, weight, family history and medicines, then examine you. A Blood Test can look for signs such as anaemia or inflammation, but diagnosis may require further tests arranged by a specialist. Keep a record of symptoms, food triggers, medicines and any blood or mucus in the stool.

Seek urgent medical advice for severe or worsening abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, marked abdominal swelling, heavy rectal bleeding, black stools, fever with significant illness, or inability to keep fluids down. Prompt review is also appropriate for ongoing diarrhoea with dehydration, faintness or rapidly worsening weakness.

Could my symptoms fit Crohn's disease or another bowel condition? Which tests are appropriate first? What should I record at home? When would I need referral to a gastroenterology team?