Living with Crohn’s disease often means navigating a cycle of remission and “active” flare-ups. Recognizing the early warning signs of a flare is the single best way to manage your health and prevent complications.
If you suspect your condition is becoming active again, look for these five key indicators:
Persistent Diarrhea:
This is the most common sign. If you notice a significant change in bowel habits, urgency, or loose stools lasting more than a few days, inflammation may be rising.
Abdominal Pain and Cramping:
Active disease often causes swelling in the intestinal walls, leading to pain that may worsen after eating.
Unexplained Weight Loss:
Inflammation burns energy, and if you are avoiding food due to pain or not absorbing nutrients properly, the numbers on the scale may drop quickly.
Fatigue and Low-Grade Fever:
Your body is fighting an internal battle. This can leave you feeling exhausted or feverish, even if you’ve slept well.
Blood in the Stool:
Visible blood or dark, tarry stools indicate active bleeding within the digestive tract and require immediate attention.
In conclusion:
Don’t wait for symptoms to become unmanageable. If you notice these signs, reach out to your gastroenterologist immediately to adjust your treatment plan.
