Do I Have Crohn's Disease?

Could Your Symptoms Be Crohn’s Disease? A Guide to Understanding the Signs

If you’ve been dealing with stomach pain, unpredictable trips to the bathroom, or unexplained fatigue, you might be wondering what’s going on. Could it be Crohn's Disease? Crohn’s Disease is a condition that affects the digestive system, but its symptoms can go far beyond the gut. We know how worrying it can be when something doesn’t feel right with your health, and searching for answers can sometimes be overwhelming. That’s why we’re here to help.

This article will guide you through the symptoms of Crohn’s Disease in a way that’s easy to understand. We won’t bombard you with medical jargon or scare you with worst-case scenarios. Instead, we’ll break everything down into clear sections, explaining both the common and lesser-known symptoms. Whether you’ve already been diagnosed or you’re just starting to wonder if Crohn’s might be the cause of your symptoms, we hope this information gives you some clarity.

You don’t have to figure this out alone. By learning more about the symptoms, you can take the first step towards getting the support you need. Let’s go through everything together.

When Your Stomach Won’t Settle – Understanding the Digestive Symptoms of Crohn’s Disease

We all get an upset stomach from time to time. Maybe it’s something we ate, a bit of stress, or just one of those things that passes after a day or two. But when stomach troubles become a regular part of life, it’s natural to start wondering if something more serious is going on. If you’re dealing with ongoing diarrhoea, stomach pain, or bloating, you’re not alone. Many people go through these struggles long before they get a diagnosis, and we understand how frustrating and exhausting it can be.

Crohn’s Disease is a condition that affects the digestive system, causing inflammation that can lead to a whole range of uncomfortable symptoms. The problem is, these symptoms can be mistaken for other conditions, which is why it often takes time to get a clear answer. The good news is that the more we understand what’s happening in our bodies, the easier it becomes to get the right support. Let’s go through the digestive symptoms of Crohn’s, what they feel like, and why they happen.

Why Crohn’s Disease Affects Digestion

Crohn’s Disease causes inflammation anywhere in the digestive tract, from the mouth to the rectum. This inflammation can lead to swelling, irritation, and damage to the lining of the intestines, which is why so many of the symptoms are gut-related. When the digestive system isn’t working properly, food doesn’t move through the way it should, and the body struggles to absorb nutrients. This can cause pain, discomfort, and changes in bowel movements.

Because Crohn’s affects people differently, some might experience mild digestive symptoms, while others struggle with severe stomach issues that interfere with daily life. No two cases are the same, but recognising the signs is the first step towards understanding what’s going on.

Diarrhoea That Won’t Go Away

Most of us have had an upset stomach at some point, but diarrhoea from Crohn’s is different. It can be frequent, urgent, and difficult to control. Some people find that they need to use the toilet multiple times a day, sometimes waking up in the night to go. This can be exhausting, both physically and mentally, especially when it starts to affect everyday life.

One of the main reasons Crohn’s causes diarrhoea is because inflammation in the intestines stops the body from absorbing water properly. Instead of forming solid stools, food and liquid pass through too quickly, leading to loose, watery bowel movements. In some cases, diarrhoea can also contain mucus or even blood, which can be worrying. If you’ve been experiencing this for a while, especially if it’s happening alongside other symptoms, it’s important to take it seriously.

Abdominal Pain and Cramping

Stomach pain can come in many forms. Some people describe it as a dull ache, while others feel sharp, stabbing cramps that come and go throughout the day. This pain is often worse after eating, which can make mealtimes feel like a challenge.

The reason for this pain is that inflammation in the digestive tract causes swelling and irritation. When food moves through, it can trigger pain as the muscles in the intestines contract. If there are strictures (narrowed areas caused by scarring), this can make it even harder for food to pass through, leading to more intense cramping.

Many people with Crohn’s find that they naturally start eating less to avoid pain, but this can lead to other problems, like weight loss and nutrient deficiencies. If stomach pain is making it difficult to eat properly, it’s important to get help.

Bloating and an Uncomfortable Fullness

Bloating is another symptom that can be hard to ignore. It can make the stomach feel swollen, tight, and uncomfortable, sometimes making clothes feel too tight even when weight hasn’t changed. This happens because inflammation in the intestines can cause gas to build up, making digestion feel sluggish.

For some people, bloating comes and goes, while for others, it’s a constant battle. It can be frustrating, especially when it’s accompanied by other digestive symptoms like pain or diarrhoea. If you’ve been feeling bloated more often than usual, especially after eating, it might be worth looking at whether Crohn’s could be playing a role.

Nausea and Vomiting

Not everyone with Crohn’s experiences nausea, but for those who do, it can be one of the hardest symptoms to deal with. Feeling sick all the time can make it difficult to eat properly, leading to weight loss and fatigue. In more severe cases, Crohn’s can even cause vomiting, especially if there’s a blockage in the intestines.

Nausea can be triggered by inflammation, food moving too slowly through the gut, or even by stress and anxiety. Because Crohn’s is an unpredictable condition, some people find that nausea comes and goes depending on how active the disease is. If you’ve been struggling with this, it’s important to pay attention to when it happens and whether certain foods or stress make it worse.

Loss of Appetite and Unintentional Weight Loss

When eating becomes painful or uncomfortable, it’s easy to start avoiding food altogether. Many people with Crohn’s find that they start eating less without even realising it, simply because they don’t feel hungry. The problem is that the body still needs nutrients to function properly, and over time, this can lead to unintentional weight loss.

Malabsorption is another reason why people with Crohn’s lose weight. When the intestines are inflamed, they struggle to absorb the nutrients from food properly. This means that even if someone is eating enough calories, their body might not be getting what it needs. If weight loss happens quickly or without trying, it’s something that shouldn’t be ignored.

Blood in the Stool – When to Be Concerned

Seeing blood in the toilet can be alarming, but it’s a symptom that should never be ignored. Blood in the stool can be bright red, which usually means it’s coming from the lower part of the digestive tract, or darker, which can indicate bleeding further up.

Inflammation in the intestines can cause small tears or ulcers, leading to bleeding. In some cases, it might not be visible, but it can still cause anemia, which leads to fatigue and weakness. If you’ve noticed any signs of blood, it’s important to talk to a doctor to find out what’s causing it.

How to Manage Crohn's Disease Digestive Symptoms

While there’s no cure for Crohn’s Disease, there are ways to manage the symptoms and improve quality of life. Some people find that certain foods trigger their digestive issues, while others notice that stress makes symptoms worse. Keeping a food diary can be helpful in identifying patterns.

In some cases, medication is needed to reduce inflammation and help the digestive system heal. If symptoms are severe, a doctor might recommend further tests to see how much of the digestive tract is affected. The most important thing to remember is that you don’t have to go through this alone. There are treatments and support available to help manage Crohn’s and make everyday life easier.

Feeling Drained for No Reason? Understanding the General Symptoms of Crohn’s Disease

When we think about Crohn’s Disease, we often focus on stomach-related symptoms. But the truth is, this condition affects far more than just digestion. If you’ve been feeling constantly exhausted, running a fever for no obvious reason, or waking up drenched in sweat at night, you might be wondering what’s going on. These general symptoms can be just as frustrating as the digestive ones, and they can have a huge impact on daily life.

We understand how difficult it is to feel unwell without knowing why. Some days, you might wake up feeling fine, and by the afternoon, you’re struggling to keep your eyes open. Or maybe you’ve noticed that even small tasks leave you feeling wiped out. Crohn’s is unpredictable, and that can make it even harder to manage. But the more we learn about the symptoms, the easier it becomes to recognise what’s happening and take steps to improve things.

Let’s go through some of the general symptoms of Crohn’s Disease, why they happen, and what can help.

Fatigue – When Tiredness Feels Impossible to Shake

We all feel tired from time to time, but fatigue is something else entirely. It’s not just about needing an early night or an extra cup of coffee. This kind of tiredness feels deep, overwhelming, and impossible to shake, no matter how much rest you get. Some people describe it as feeling like they’re walking through quicksand, with no energy to do the things they normally would.

Fatigue in Crohn’s Disease can be caused by several things. Chronic inflammation uses up the body’s energy, making it harder to function properly. Malabsorption can mean the body isn’t getting the nutrients it needs, leading to exhaustion. If there’s internal bleeding, anemia can develop, which also causes extreme tiredness. And let’s not forget the impact of poor sleep—waking up in the night with pain, diarrhoea, or night sweats can leave you feeling drained before the day even begins.

If fatigue has been a major struggle, it’s worth looking at possible causes. A doctor can check for anemia or vitamin deficiencies, and in some cases, simple changes like adjusting diet, staying hydrated, or managing stress levels can make a difference.

Fevers – When Your Body Feels Like It’s Fighting Something

Running a fever without having a cold or flu can be confusing. But for people with Crohn’s Disease, fevers can come and go, often without warning. Some are mild, barely noticeable, while others leave you feeling hot, achy, and unwell.

Fevers happen because the immune system is in overdrive. Crohn’s is an autoimmune condition, which means the body mistakenly attacks its own digestive system, triggering inflammation. This inflammation can cause a rise in temperature, similar to how the body reacts when fighting an infection. If the fever is high or lasts for a long time, it could also be a sign of complications, like an abscess or infection, which would need medical attention.

If you’ve noticed that you feel feverish regularly, it can be helpful to keep track of when it happens. Does it come on after eating? Does it get worse at night? Keeping a record can help doctors understand what’s going on and whether treatment might be needed.

Night Sweats – Waking Up Soaked

Waking up in the middle of the night, drenched in sweat, can be unsettling. You might need to change your clothes or even the sheets, and getting back to sleep after that can be difficult. Night sweats are a common but often overlooked symptom of Crohn’s Disease, and they can leave you feeling exhausted the next day.

There are a few reasons why this happens. The inflammation in Crohn’s can affect the body's temperature regulation, making it harder to stay cool at night. If you’ve had a fever during the day, the body might be trying to cool itself down while you sleep. Some medications used for Crohn’s, like steroids, can also trigger night sweats.

If this is happening often, it might help to keep the bedroom cool, use breathable bedding, or wear light clothing to bed. But if it’s severe, it’s always a good idea to speak to a doctor, especially if night sweats are happening alongside other symptoms like weight loss or fever.

Anemia – When Your Body Isn’t Getting Enough Oxygen

Anemia happens when the body doesn’t have enough healthy red blood cells to carry oxygen around. This can leave you feeling weak, lightheaded, or short of breath. If you’ve ever felt like your heart is racing after climbing the stairs or struggled to focus because you’re constantly tired, anemia could be playing a role.

For people with Crohn’s Disease, anemia is often caused by ongoing blood loss in the digestive tract. Even if you don’t see blood in your stool, small amounts of bleeding can add up over time. Malabsorption can also contribute, as the body may struggle to take in enough iron, vitamin B12, or folate—all essential for red blood cell production.

If anemia is suspected, a simple blood test can check iron levels. In some cases, iron supplements, B12 injections, or changes in diet can help. The important thing is not to ignore symptoms like dizziness, pale skin, or unexplained weakness, as anemia can become severe if left untreated.

Managing General Symptoms of Crohn’s Disease

These symptoms don’t always get as much attention as digestive issues, but they can have just as big an impact on everyday life. If you’ve been struggling with fatigue, fevers, night sweats, or anemia, it’s important to recognise that these are real symptoms that deserve attention.

There are a few things that can help manage these issues:

• Getting checked for deficiencies – Low iron, B12, and other nutrients can be corrected with supplements.
• Managing inflammation – When Crohn’s is under control, many of these symptoms improve.
• Looking after sleep and hydration – A cool, dark room and plenty of fluids during the day can help with night sweats and fatigue.
• Tracking symptoms – Keeping a record of when fevers, tiredness, or other symptoms happen can make it easier to spot patterns.

Most importantly, remember that you’re not alone in this. Crohn’s is a complicated condition, and it’s completely understandable to feel frustrated when symptoms don’t seem to make sense. But the more we learn about our bodies and the way Crohn’s affects them, the easier it becomes to find ways to manage it.

If these symptoms sound familiar, and you’re wondering if Crohn’s could be the cause, reaching out for medical advice is always a good step. The sooner the right support is in place, the sooner things can start improving.

More Than Skin Deep – How Crohn’s Disease Affects the Joints and Skin

What many people don’t realise is that Crohn’s can also affect other parts of the body, including the joints and skin. If you’ve been dealing with joint pain, swelling, or strange rashes that seem to appear out of nowhere, you might be wondering what’s causing them. These symptoms can be confusing, especially if you haven’t been diagnosed yet, but they’re actually quite common in people with Crohn’s.

One day, you might wake up with aching joints that make it hard to move, and the next, you’re dealing with painful red lumps on your skin. It’s easy to think these issues are unrelated, but they could all be linked to Crohn’s Disease. Let’s go through the symptoms affecting the joints and skin, why they happen, and what might help.

Joint Pain and Swelling – When Movement Becomes Difficult

Joint pain is one of the most common symptoms outside of the digestive system. Some people notice mild stiffness, while others experience severe pain and swelling that makes it difficult to move. This kind of joint pain is known as enteropathic arthritis, a type of arthritis linked to inflammatory bowel disease.

Crohn’s triggers inflammation in the body, and that inflammation doesn’t just stay in the gut. The immune system can attack the joints, leading to pain, stiffness, and swelling. The most commonly affected areas are the knees, ankles, wrists, and fingers, but some people experience pain in the lower back or spine as well.

What makes joint pain in Crohn’s different from other types of arthritis is that it often comes and goes. It might flare up when the digestive symptoms are at their worst and settle down when Crohn’s is under control. Some people find that the pain improves with movement, while others struggle more after periods of activity.

If joint pain has been a problem, it’s important to get it checked. In some cases, anti-inflammatory medication or physical therapy can help. Staying active with gentle movement, like swimming or stretching, can also improve joint stiffness without putting too much strain on the body.

Skin Rashes and Sores – When Crohn’s Shows Up on the Outside

Skin problems aren’t usually the first thing people think of when talking about Crohn’s Disease, but they can be a major issue for many. Crohn’s-related skin conditions can range from mild irritation to painful sores that make everyday activities uncomfortable.

One of the most common skin issues is erythema nodosum. This appears as red, tender lumps, usually on the lower legs. These lumps can feel sore to the touch and sometimes make walking painful. Erythema nodosum is caused by inflammation in the body and often flares up when Crohn’s is active.

Another serious skin condition linked to Crohn’s is pyoderma gangrenosum. This starts as small, red bumps that quickly turn into deep ulcers. It’s a rare but serious condition that needs medical treatment, as the ulcers can be painful and take a long time to heal.

Some people with Crohn’s also experience general skin irritation, dryness, or sensitivity. This can be caused by inflammation, nutrient deficiencies, or side effects from medication. If you’ve noticed changes in your skin, it’s worth keeping track of when they happen and whether they seem to flare up alongside digestive symptoms.

Why Does Crohn’s Cause Joint and Skin Problems?

The reason Crohn’s affects the joints and skin comes down to inflammation. Crohn’s is an autoimmune condition, which means the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue. While the main target is the digestive system, this inflammation can also spread to other areas, leading to joint pain, skin conditions, and other symptoms outside the gut.

Another reason these symptoms appear is because of nutrient deficiencies. When the intestines aren’t absorbing vitamins and minerals properly, it can affect skin health, making it dry, irritated, or slow to heal. Low levels of certain nutrients, like vitamin D, can also make joint pain worse.

Some medications used to treat Crohn’s, like steroids, can also cause side effects that affect the joints and skin. Long-term steroid use can weaken the bones, leading to joint pain, while some immune-suppressing medications can make the skin more sensitive.

How to Manage Joint and Skin Symptoms

Although these symptoms can be frustrating, there are things that might help:

• For joint pain: Gentle exercise, warm baths, and anti-inflammatory medication can ease stiffness and discomfort. In some cases, physical therapy can improve mobility.
• For skin conditions: Keeping the skin moisturised, avoiding harsh soaps, and using medicated creams (prescribed by a doctor) can help with irritation.
• For both joint and skin health: Eating a balanced diet with plenty of vitamins and minerals can support the body. Some people find that anti-inflammatory foods, like omega-3-rich fish or turmeric, help reduce symptoms.

Most importantly, if you’ve been experiencing joint pain or skin issues alongside digestive symptoms, don’t ignore them. These are real symptoms of Crohn’s Disease, and they deserve attention.

When Crohn’s Disease Affects the Eyes

So we've established that Crohn’s Disease is usually associated with stomach pain, diarrhoea, and fatigue, but what many people don’t realise is that it can also affect the eyes. If you’ve been experiencing red, irritated eyes, blurred vision, or sensitivity to light, you might be wondering if it’s connected to your other symptoms. These issues can be frustrating, especially when they seem to come and go without explanation.

Eye problems can make daily tasks harder, and they’re not something most people expect when dealing with a digestive condition. But just like Crohn’s can cause joint pain and skin issues, it can also lead to inflammation in the eyes. The good news is that most eye-related symptoms are treatable, and catching them early can help prevent long-term problems.

Let’s go through the most common eye symptoms linked to Crohn’s Disease, why they happen, and what can help.

Red, Painful Eyes – When Inflammation Targets the Eyes

If you’ve noticed that your eyes are red, sore, or constantly irritated, it could be a sign of uveitis or episcleritis—two inflammatory conditions that are more common in people with Crohn’s.

Uveitis is inflammation inside the eye. It can cause redness, pain, blurred vision, and even sensitivity to light. Some people describe it as feeling like there’s grit or sand in their eyes, making it uncomfortable to blink or focus. Uveitis needs medical treatment because if left untreated, it can lead to complications like vision loss.

Episcleritis is a milder form of inflammation that affects the outer layer of the eye. It usually causes redness and irritation but isn’t as painful as uveitis. Unlike uveitis, episcleritis often goes away on its own, though it can still be uncomfortable.

Both conditions are caused by inflammation, just like the other symptoms of Crohn’s. When the immune system is overactive, it can target the eyes, leading to redness and discomfort. If you’ve been dealing with these symptoms, it’s important to see an eye doctor, as they can prescribe anti-inflammatory drops to help reduce irritation.

Blurred Vision – When Seeing Clearly Becomes a Challenge

Blurred vision can be one of the most worrying symptoms, especially when it happens suddenly. It might feel like everything is slightly out of focus, or you might notice that certain areas of your vision seem cloudy.

There are a few possible reasons why Crohn’s can cause blurred vision. If inflammation is affecting the eyes, like in uveitis, it can make it harder to see clearly. Some medications used to treat Crohn’s, especially steroids, can also cause changes in vision by increasing the risk of cataracts or glaucoma.

Another possible cause is dry eye syndrome. When the body isn’t producing enough tears, the surface of the eyes can become dry and irritated, leading to blurry vision. This is more common in people with autoimmune conditions and can be made worse by certain medications.

If you’ve been struggling with blurred vision, it’s important to get it checked as soon as possible. Some causes are minor and easy to treat, while others may need medical attention to prevent long-term damage.

Sensitivity to Light – When Bright Lights Become Uncomfortable

Have you ever found yourself squinting in normal lighting or needing to wear sunglasses even on cloudy days? Sensitivity to light, also known as photophobia, can be another unexpected symptom of Crohn’s.

This happens when inflammation in the eyes makes them more reactive to light. Uveitis is a common cause, but even mild irritation or dryness can lead to discomfort in bright environments. Some people also find that headaches and migraines, which can be linked to Crohn’s, make light sensitivity worse.

If this has been happening to you, small changes can help. Wearing sunglasses, avoiding harsh lighting, and using lubricating eye drops can reduce discomfort. If the sensitivity is severe, it’s worth seeing an eye doctor to check for inflammation or other underlying issues.

Why Does Crohn’s Affect the Eyes?

Like the joint and skin symptoms, eye problems in Crohn’s are caused by inflammation. When the immune system is overactive, it doesn’t just attack the digestive tract—it can also target the eyes, leading to redness, irritation, and vision changes.

Some people only experience eye symptoms during Crohn’s flare-ups, while others notice them at random times. The good news is that most Crohn’s-related eye conditions improve when the underlying inflammation is treated. Keeping Crohn’s under control often helps reduce eye symptoms, but if problems persist, it’s important to get them checked.

How to Manage Eye Symptoms

If you’ve been dealing with red, painful eyes or changes in vision, there are a few things that might help:

• Get an eye exam – Regular check-ups can catch inflammation early before it causes complications.
• Use lubricating eye drops – If dry eyes are a problem, artificial tears can help keep them comfortable.
• Wear sunglasses – Protecting your eyes from bright light can reduce sensitivity and discomfort.
• Monitor medication side effects – If you’re taking steroids or other medications that affect the eyes, talk to your doctor about any changes in vision.

So Eye symptoms might not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about Crohn’s Disease, but they’re an important part of the bigger picture. If you’ve been struggling with irritation, blurred vision, or sensitivity to light, don’t ignore it. There are treatments available, and getting the right help can prevent bigger problems down the line.

If any of these eye issues sound familiar, it’s always worth getting them checked—your eyes will thank you for it.

The Hidden Symptoms of Crohn’s Disease – What Most People Don’t Know

So we've talked about the most well-known symptoms—stomach pain, diarrhoea, and fatigue and the less known Eye issues. But what about the even lesser-known signs that don’t get as much attention? If you’ve been dealing with unusual symptoms that don’t seem to fit with digestive issues, you’re not alone. Many people with Crohn’s experience things like hair thinning, blood clots, or even tingling in the hands and feet without realising they could be connected.

We understand how confusing it can be when your body starts behaving in ways you don’t expect. It’s frustrating when symptoms don’t seem to make sense, and it can be worrying when doctors can’t immediately explain what’s going on. That’s why we want to highlight the lesser-known symptoms of Crohn’s Disease—because sometimes, the things we least expect are the ones that need the most attention. You probably won't experience any of them but you might and that's what's important here.

Blood Clots – A Risk Many People Don’t Know About

One of the most surprising things about Crohn’s Disease is that it increases the risk of blood clots. This means that people with Crohn’s are more likely to develop deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or even pulmonary embolisms (blood clots in the lungs).

Blood clots happen because inflammation affects how the blood flows through the body. When inflammation levels are high, the blood becomes thicker, making it easier for clots to form. Being unwell, dehydrated, or inactive for long periods—such as during a Crohn’s flare or hospital stay—can also raise the risk.

If you’ve noticed swelling, redness, or pain in one leg, or if you’ve experienced sudden shortness of breath, it’s important to seek medical help as soon as possible. Blood clots can be serious, but the good news is that they can be prevented with movement, hydration, and in some cases, medication.

Hair Thinning or Loss – When Your Hair Starts Changing

Hair loss isn’t something most people associate with Crohn’s, but it’s a common problem. Some people notice that their hair becomes thinner, while others experience patches of shedding.

There are a few reasons why this happens. Malnutrition is one of the biggest causes—when the body isn’t absorbing enough nutrients, it focuses on keeping vital organs running rather than growing hair. Low iron, B12, or zinc levels can all contribute to thinning hair. Stress, both physical and emotional, also plays a role. A Crohn’s flare-up puts a lot of strain on the body, which can cause more hair to fall out than usual.

The good news is that in most cases, hair loss from Crohn’s is temporary. Once nutrient levels improve and the body starts recovering, hair usually grows back. If hair loss has been noticeable, it might be worth checking for deficiencies and making sure the diet includes enough vitamins and minerals to support hair growth.

Tingling or Numbness – When Your Hands and Feet Feel Strange

Have you ever felt a tingling sensation in your fingers or toes, almost like pins and needles that don’t go away? This can be a sign of nerve damage caused by vitamin deficiencies, particularly B12.

B12 is crucial for nerve function, and when levels are low, it can lead to strange sensations in the hands and feet. Because Crohn’s can affect nutrient absorption, some people struggle to get enough B12 from food, especially if they’ve had surgery on the small intestine.

If tingling or numbness has been a problem, a simple blood test can check B12 levels. In some cases, supplements or B12 injections can help improve symptoms. The important thing is to catch it early—long-term B12 deficiency can cause permanent nerve damage, so it’s always worth checking.

Mouth or Gum Inflammation – When Crohn’s Affects Oral Health

Crohn’s doesn’t just affect the digestive system—it can also cause inflammation in the mouth. Some people develop swollen, painful gums, while others get recurring mouth ulcers that make eating uncomfortable.

These symptoms happen because Crohn’s is an inflammatory condition, and inflammation can appear anywhere in the digestive tract, including the mouth. Ulcers are especially common during flare-ups and can sometimes be an early sign that inflammation is active.

Using a gentle mouthwash, avoiding spicy or acidic foods, and keeping hydrated can help with oral symptoms. If ulcers or gum inflammation are severe, a doctor or dentist might recommend special treatments to reduce discomfort.

Shortness of Breath – When Everyday Activities Feel Harder

If climbing the stairs suddenly feels exhausting or you’re getting out of breath more often than usual, it could be a sign of anemia. Low iron or B12 levels can reduce the number of red blood cells in the body, making it harder for oxygen to circulate. This can leave you feeling breathless, dizzy, or even lightheaded.

Because Crohn’s can cause slow, ongoing blood loss in the digestive tract, anemia is common. If shortness of breath has been an issue, getting iron or B12 levels checked can help determine whether supplements or dietary changes are needed.

Why Do These Lesser-Known Symptoms Happen?

Most of these symptoms come down to two main causes: inflammation and malabsorption. Crohn’s affects the way the body absorbs nutrients, and when key vitamins and minerals are missing, it can lead to unexpected problems. Inflammation also plays a huge role, causing everything from blood clots to nerve issues.

These symptoms might not be as well-known as diarrhoea or stomach pain, but they are just as real. Many people with Crohn’s experience them without realising they could be linked to their condition.

How to Manage Lesser-Known Symptoms

While these symptoms can be frustrating, there are things that might help:

• Getting regular blood tests – Checking for vitamin and mineral deficiencies can help prevent problems like anemia and hair thinning.
• Staying active and hydrated – Moving regularly and drinking plenty of fluids can help reduce the risk of blood clots.
• Paying attention to changes in the body – If something feels off, whether it’s unusual fatigue, tingling in the hands, or shortness of breath, it’s always worth getting checked.

Crohn’s Disease is complicated, and no two people experience it in the same way. That’s why it’s so important to listen to what your body is telling you. If any of these symptoms sound familiar, they shouldn’t be ignored—getting the right support can make all the difference.

What to Do Next – Finding Answers and Getting Support for Crohn’s Disease

We hope this article has helped you understand more about Crohn’s Disease and its symptoms. If you’ve been reading through and recognising some of these signs in yourself, it’s important to know that you’re not alone. Many people go through months or even years of unexplained symptoms before getting a diagnosis, but the sooner you seek medical advice, the sooner you can start getting the right support.

If you think you might have Crohn’s, the best thing to do is speak to a doctor. They can run tests, check for inflammation, and help you figure out what’s going on. Even if it turns out not to be Crohn’s, getting answers is always better than dealing with uncertainty. Digestive issues, fatigue, joint pain, and other symptoms can have many causes, and ruling out serious conditions is an important step towards feeling better.

Why a Medical ID Card Can Make Life Easier

Once you’ve received a diagnosis, managing Crohn’s Disease becomes part of daily life. There might be hospital visits, medication changes, or times when symptoms flare up unexpectedly. This is where having a Crohn’s Disease Medical ID Card can make a big difference.

Our Crohn’s Medical ID Cards are designed to help in situations where you need people to understand your condition quickly. Whether you’re in a medical emergency, travelling, or just explaining your needs in everyday situations, having a clear, easy-to-read card can save time and stress.

Here’s how a medical ID card can help:

• Emergency situations – If you ever need urgent medical care, the card provides key details about your condition, helping paramedics and doctors act quickly.
• Travel and public spaces – If you need access to a toilet urgently or require special accommodations, showing a medical card can make these conversations easier.
• Work and social situations – Sometimes, explaining Crohn’s to employers, teachers, or even friends can feel overwhelming. A medical ID card can help you communicate your needs without having to go into too much detail.

Our cards are made from biodegradable plastic, the same size as a credit card, and easy to carry in your wallet or purse. We have a range of cards, some personalised and some generic so come on over and find one that's right for you.

Living with Crohn’s – You Are Not Alone

Getting diagnosed with Crohn’s Disease can feel overwhelming, but you are not alone in this. With the right treatment, support, and small lifestyle adjustments, many people find ways to manage their symptoms and live full, active lives.

If this article has helped you understand more about Crohn’s, the next step is to reach out for medical advice. Whether that means booking an appointment with your doctor, keeping track of your symptoms, or learning more about how Crohn’s affects the body, taking action can make a real difference. Getting the right diagnosis is the first step toward better managing your health.

We know how difficult it can be to deal with a condition that is unpredictable and often misunderstood. Some days will be harder than others, and that’s okay. What matters is that you find the support you need, whether that’s from healthcare professionals, family, or others who understand what you’re going through. You don’t have to do this alone.

Living with Crohn’s comes with challenges, but understanding your symptoms and knowing when to seek help can make all the difference. If you think you might have Crohn’s, don’t ignore the signs—talk to someone, ask questions, and take the steps you need to take care of yourself.