Crohn's Disease

🚨 Symptoms

Abdominal pain (often RLQ), chronic diarrhea (may be bloody), weight loss, fatigue, fever, mouth ulcers, perianal fistulas

🔍 Causes

Autoimmune response in genetically predisposed individuals triggered by environmental factors; chronic inflammation of GI tract (any part)

💊 Treatment

Aminosalicylates, corticosteroids, immunomodulators, biologics (anti-TNF), surgery for complications, nutritional support

📝 Nursing Care

Monitor for complications (obstruction, fistulas); teach about medications; nutritional counseling; provide emotional support; monitor for extra-intestinal manifestations

Source: NHS Scotland. For educational purposes only.