Recognizing Crohn's Disease: Early Symptoms & What to Watch For

Crohn's disease affects the lining of the bowel and the gastrointestinal system, causing swelling, discomfort and other symptoms. Categorized as an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), the early symptoms of Crohn's may come on gradually or flare up quickly, lasting a couple of days or for longer than a week.

Diarrhea

• One of the earliest signs of Crohn's disease is chronic diarrhea that has no other logical cause.

Bloody Stools

• In some cases, the patient's stool may show traces of blood, according to Merck Manuals. This may appear as bright red blood or darker blood, depending upon which area of the intestinal system is affected.

Cramping

• Abdominal cramping that accompanies diarrhea is common with the onset of this disease. The cramping may be mild or severe, and it may come and go in waves.

Nausea

• At the onset of Crohn's disease, the patient may experience nausea, appetite loss and subsequent weight loss.

Children

• Children who develop Crohn's disease may not exhibit gastrointestinal symptoms and instead may suffer from fever, weakness, joint inflammation and tenderness.