What should you know about pathology of crohn s disease?

Inflammation may occur anywhere from the mouth to the anus, often with healthy areas between affected sections. It can cause swelling and shallow or deeper ulcers in the lining. When inflammation extends into deeper layers, the bowel wall may thicken and the passage can narrow. Ongoing inflammation can produce abdominal pain, diarrhoea, fatigue, reduced appetite, or weight loss. In some people, abnormal channels called fistulas or collections of infection called abscesses develop near inflamed bowel. These changes are not diagnosed from symptoms alone.

Book a GP consultation for persistent diarrhoea, recurring abdominal pain, blood in stool, or unexplained weight loss. Assessment may include a history, examination, stool testing, blood test, and referral for bowel imaging or endoscopy when appropriate. Keep a record of stool changes, pain location, fever, food triggers, and medicines. Do not stop prescribed treatment or take anti-inflammatory pain medicines regularly without advice, because they may aggravate bowel symptoms in some people.

Seek urgent care for severe or rapidly increasing abdominal pain, a swollen abdomen with repeated vomiting, heavy rectal bleeding, fainting, or inability to pass stool or gas. Fever with worsening pain can signal an abscess or another complication. Prompt review is needed if diarrhoea causes dizziness, very dark urine, or inability to drink enough.

Ask which tests can distinguish Crohn's disease from infection, how inflammation will be monitored, what symptoms suggest narrowing or an abscess, and when specialist review is needed.