Crohn's Disease

Call a doctor right away if you have been diagnosed with Crohn's disease and you have one or more of the following:

• Fever or shaking chills
• Lightheadedness, passing out, or rapid heart rate
• Stools that are almost always bloody
• Severe Reference dehydration Opens New Window
• Severe belly pain or severe pain and bloating
• Evidence of pus draining from the area around the anus, or pain and swelling in the anal area
• Repeated vomiting
• Not passing any stools or gas

If you have any of these symptoms and you have been diagnosed with Crohn's disease, your condition may have become much worse. Some of these symptoms also may be signs of Reference toxic megacolon Opens New Window. This is a rare complication of Crohn's disease that requires emergency treatment. Untreated toxic megacolon can cause the colon to leak or rupture, which can be fatal.

People who have Crohn's disease usually know their normal pattern of symptoms. Call your doctor if there is a change in your usual symptoms or if:

• Your symptoms become significantly worse than usual.
• You have diarrhea that lasts for more than 2 weeks.
• You have lost weight.

Who to see

The following doctors can diagnose most cases of Crohn's disease:

• Reference Family medicine doctor Opens New Window
• Reference Internist Opens New Window

To help you manage Crohn's disease, you will probably be referred to a Reference gastroenterologist Opens New Window.

To be evaluated for surgery, you may be referred to a:

• Reference General surgeon Opens New Window.
• Reference Colorectal surgeon Opens New Window.

To prepare for your appointment, see the topic Reference Making the Most of Your Appointment.

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This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.