Complications and IBD

Crohn’s disease can involve any part of your intestinal tract from your mouth to your anus. Inflammation from Crohn’s disease commonly causes abdominal pain and diarrhoea. This inflammation can affect all layers of tissue in the lining of the intestine, and can lead to a variety of complications which are discussed below. 

Intestinal Blockage

Blockages are the most common complication with Crohn’s disease. Swelling and scarring can narrow the passage through your intestines. This then causes constipation, discomfort, and abdominal pain.

Ulcers

Chronic inflammation of the lining of the intestine can cause open sores to develop and these are called ulcers. Ulcers may occur anywhere in your digestive tract, including your mouth and anus, and in the genital area.

Fistulas

Ulcers can penetrate deeply into the tissue of the intestinal wall. They can even form a tunnel all the way through the wall of the intestine and this is known as a fistula. Fistulas create abnormal connections between different parts of your intestine, your intestine and your skin, or your intestine and other organs such as your bladder or womb.

The following describes the different types of fistulas:

Abdominal abscess: If the fistula opens to an empty space in the abdomen, it can cause an infection and fills with pus (an abdominal abscess). Abdominal abscesses can cause high fevers as well as abdominal pain and tenderness.

Enteric-vesicular fistula: A fistula between the intestine and the bladder is called an enteric-vesicular fistula. This can cause frequent urinary tract infections. It may also cause you to pass gas and faeces during urination.

Enteric-cutaneous fistula: A fistula between the intestine and the skin is called an enteric-cutaneous fistula. This can cause an opening on the skin of the abdomen. Pus, bowel contents, and mucus may discharge from this opening.

Colonic-vaginal fistula: A fistula between the colon and the vagina is called a colonic-vaginal fistula. This can cause gas and faeces to pass through the vagina.

Anal fistula: A fistula from the intestines to the anus is called an anal fistula. Mucus and pus may discharge from the fistula’s opening around the anus.

Malabsorption

Malabsorption is common with Crohn’s disease. Scarred and damaged tissues do not absorb nutrients well. If you have chronic diarrhoea, your intestines may not have time to absorb nutrients. Malabsorption can cause nutritional deficiencies. These can lead to anaemia and malnutrition.

Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a weakening of the bones caused by a loss of calcium. This is especially common if you’ve been treated with corticosteroids.

Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS)

RLS is extreme discomfort in one or both legs when sitting or lying down. It may improve when your Crohn’s is treated, or it may need to be treated separately.

Increased Risk of Cancer

Crohn’s disease increases your risk of developing colon cancer. Regular screening is generally recommended.

Complications in Children

Children with Crohn’s disease may have impaired growth and delayed sexual development due to malnutrition and vitamin or mineral deficiencies.

Other Complications

Other complications caused by Crohn’s disease include:

• Arthritis
• Skin problems
• Inflammation in the eyes or mouth
• Kidney stones
• Gallstones
• Impaired liver function