How Is Crohn’s Disease
Diagnosed?

Doctors Use a Few Methods When Diagnosing Crohn’s

To begin, your doctor will ask questions about your symptoms and how long you have been experiencing them. They may also ask questions about your medical background and family history of inflammatory bowel disorders. Your doctor will also use one or more of the following procedures to determine a diagnosis:

• Blood Testing – Blood tests can detect certain indicators of Crohn’s, such as signs of inflammation, infection, and anaemia (which is when a person does not have a sufficient number of red blood cells). 

• Stool Samples – Stool testing can also identify signs of inflammation, as well as the presence of bacteria or blood (bloody stools are a common effect of Crohn’s). 

• Imaging Tests – CT scans provide doctors with images of the bowel and surrounding tissue. MRIs can detect issues in the small intestine (such as fistulas) or be used to determine how far Crohn’s has progressed. 

• Colonoscopy – A colonoscopy involves using a small camera attached to a flexible tube to look inside the colon. A doctor can also take a tissue sample while performing the colonoscopy. 

• Capsule Endoscopy – Similar to a colonoscopy, a capsule endoscopy entails swallowing a camera capsule, which takes pictures of the small intestine.

These tests and procedures can rule out other diseases and disorders that may cause symptoms similar to Crohn’s.

What Happens After a Diagnosis?

Crohn’s cannot be cured, but doctors can prescribe medications to manage symptoms. When the effects of the disease are severe, surgery may be necessary. People with Crohn’s also benefit from lifestyle changes, such as eating smaller, more frequent meals and eliminating foods that trigger symptoms.