Depending on what area is inflamed, symptoms may differ.

Crohn's disease symptoms may vary over time and from person to person depending on what part of the intestinal tract is inflamed.¹

The most common form of Crohn's affects the ileum and colon. Symptoms may include diarrhea, cramping, or abdominal pain. Or if inflammation occurs in the stomach and the first part of the small intestine, loss of appetite, weight loss, and nausea may occur.¹

Crohn's disease symptoms may come on suddenly—without warning.

Crohn's disease is unpredictable. Just when you think you understand your symptoms, they may change in severity, or change altogether.

You may also go through periods of remission with few or no symptoms. Then suddenly, you may have periods of flare-ups with symptoms such as persistent diarrhea, fatigue, or fever.²

Inflammation can lead to flare-ups.

Painful flare-ups occur when the lining of your intestines swell and thicken, obstructing normal movement through your digestive tract.²

Learn about your Crohn's symptoms. Use this Interactive Discussion Guide, then speak with your doctor.

Potential complications may occur.

Along with painful symptoms, Crohn’s disease can lead to complications, including obstruction of the intestines, and the formation of scar tissue.³

Other potential complications of Crohn’s include the formation of fissures (small cuts or tears in the anal canal, which may bleed), abscesses (localized infection or collection of pus), and fistulas (abnormal tunnels that form between two structures of the body).²

Or you may experience other symptoms, including²:

Surgery may be needed to repair damage.

Your doctor may recommend surgery to remove a damaged portion of your digestive tract, to close fistulas, or remove scar tissue.²