What is Crohn's disease? - In Hollywood, there have been a few celebrities that have brought Crohn's disease to the spotlight. But what is Crohn's disease exactly? Take a look through the gallery and find out more about the disease, symptoms, and what you can do to avoid a future diagnosis.

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Crohn's disease - According to Mayo Clinic, Crohn's disease is an inflammatory bowel disease that causes inflammation of your digestive tract. It can cause abdominal pain, severe diarrhea, fatigue, weight loss, and malnutrition.

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Aches - Crohn's disease can be extremely painful and may lead to life-threatening complications.

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Fever - A sign and symptom of Crohn's disease can be a bad fever.

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Fatigue - You may also feel fatigued or tired.

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Pain - Severe abdominal pain and painful cramps are other signs to look out for.

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Ulcers - Mouth sores and ulcers can be a clue. 

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Food - Loss of appetite can be another sign of the disease.

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Weight - Unexplained weight loss can be due to Crohn's disease. 

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Pain - Pain or drainage near or around the anus is a symptom. 

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Inflamed skin - Sufferers may also notice inflammation around the eyes.

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Inflamed skin - Or inflammation of the skin.

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Contact your doctor - Contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following symptoms. 

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Cramps - Severe or unbearable abdominal pain and cramps. 

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Weight loss - Unintentional and unexplained weight loss and bouts of diarrhea.

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Fever - An unexplained fever lasting more than a day or two.

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Causes - The exact causes of Crohn's disease are still unknown. A number of factors likely play a role in its development. Most people who develop Crohn's disease are diagnosed before they're 30 years old.

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Family History - People who have a close relative with the disease, such as a parent, sibling, or child, are at a higher risk.

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Smoking - Cigarette smoking is a controllable risk factor for developing Crohn's disease.

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Anti-inflammatory medications - While such medication does not cause Crohn's disease, it can lead to inflammation of the bowel, which makes Crohn's disease worse.

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Habitat - If you live in an urban environment, you're more likely to develop Crohn's disease. This suggests that environmental factors, including a diet high in fat or refined foods, may play a role.

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Complications - Crohn's disease may lead to complications later in life. It can affect the thickness of the intestinal wall. This may require surgery to remove the diseased part of the bowel.

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Ulcers - Chronic inflammation can lead to ulcers and sores in the mouth, anus, and genital area.

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Cancer - Crohn's disease increases your risk of colon cancer.

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Liver disease - The disease can lead to gallbladder or liver disease and other problems including anaemia, skin disorders, osteoporosis, and arthritis.

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