Can you die from Crohn's disease? Risks and complications - Medical News Today
Crohn's disease is not typically life threatening, but it can increase the risk of severe complications, such as colon cancer and toxic megacolon. Treatment can help reduce these risks.
Crohn's disease is a long-term condition and a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
It most commonly affects the ileum, which is the end section of the small intestine and the first section of the large intestine, or colon. However, it can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract, from the mouth to the anus.
Depending on the location and extent of the disease, a person with Crohn's may develop serious complications.
In this article, we identify some life threatening complications of Crohn's disease and describe associated symptoms.
According to the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation, a person with Crohn's is unlikely to die from the disease, but it can increase the risk of life threatening complications, such as severe infections and colorectal cancer.
Prompt treatment can increase the likelihood of a good recovery. A person can also take preventive measures to reduce their risk of these complications.
Below are some severe complications of Crohn's disease:
Colorectal cancer
People with IBD have an increased risk of developing dysplasia. This occurs when abnormal cells form in the lining of the colon or rectum. Over time, these cells can become cancerous.
When Crohn's disease affects the colon, a person may have an increased risk of colorectal cancer, compared with the larger population. The risk is higher for people who have had Crohn's for 8–10 years or more.
A person can help a doctor detect dysplasia early and possibly prevent colorectal cancer by:
- having a routine colonoscopy every 1–2 years
- seeing a gastroenterologist every year
- notifying a doctor of any new symptoms or concerns
- following the treatment plan for Crohn's disease
- telling the doctor if a family member develops colorectal cancer
- exercising regularly and eating a varied and nutritious diet
Despite the increased risk, most people with Crohn's disease never develop colorectal cancer.
Nonetheless, it is best to be familiar with the symptoms and speak with a doctor if they occur.
According to the
Symptoms to look out for
Symptoms to look out for
- diarrhea or constipation lasting more than a few days
- a constant feeling of needing to make a bowel movement
- bleeding from the rectum
- stools that are dark or contain fresh blood
- abdominal pain or cramping
- weakness and fatigue
- unintended weight loss
Fistulas
Inflammation from Crohn's disease can spread through the intestinal wall, creating an abscess.
As the abscess grows, it forms a small hole in the wall, and this hole can develop into a fistula. A fistula is an abnormal passageway that connects one organ to another. Most start in the bowel. They may connect to other parts of the bowel or other internal organs.
Sometimes, a fistula forms a tunnel from the intestine to the outer surface of the skin. Doctors call this an enterocutaneous fistula (ECF). Most people with an ECF experience at least one complication, such as malnutrition or sepsis. Without treatment, both conditions can be life threatening.
The mortality rate for an ECF ranges from
Symptoms to look out for
The symptoms of a fistula will depend on the location, but some common symptoms include:
- frequent urinary tract infections
- nausea and vomiting
- diarrhea
- abdominal pain
- vaginal symptoms, such as leaking urine from the vagina, or leaking gas or feces into the vagina
Without treatment, sepsis may develop. Symptoms of sepsis include:
- signs of infection, including fever, fatigue, and pain
- confusion
- fatigue
- severe pain or discomfort
Treatment options for fistulas include antibiotics and surgery. A doctor may also use a catheter to drain a fistula or a collagen matrix to plug the hole.
Intestinal obstruction and strictures
A stricture is a narrowing of the bowel passage due to a buildup of scar tissue. It can sometimes lead to an intestinal obstruction, with a risk of a tear and perforation in the colon.
A perforated colon can be life threatening, and a person
Symptoms to look out for
Symptoms of an intestinal stricture include:
- severe abdominal pain and cramping
- nausea and vomiting
- constipation
- a bloated and distended abdomen
Perforated colon
Chronic inflammation, abscesses, fistulas, and strictures can weaken points in the intestinal wall.
Over time, the wall can tear, or perforate, allowing bacteria and other infectious substances
Symptoms to look out for
A perforated colon is a medical emergency. A person needs surgery to repair the hole in the intestine.
Symptoms of a perforated colon include:
- severe abdominal pain
- changes in bowel function
- nausea
- vomiting
- fever
The outlook will depend on various factors, including the person's age, other health factors, and how quickly they receive treatment. It can be life threatening.
Toxic megacolon
Toxic megacolon is a rare but life threatening complication of Crohn's disease. It occurs when inflammation causes the colon to expand so much that it cannot contract.
The result is a buildup of gas that can cause the colon to burst, leaking harmful bacteria and toxins into the bloodstream. It can cause internal bleeding and shock or sepsis.
Symptoms to look out for
Symptoms of toxic megacolon include:
- swelling and pain in the abdomen
- frequent or bloody diarrhea
- dehydration
- a rapid heart rate
- fever
The outlook will depend on the person's age, how soon they have surgery, and other factors. Early surgery can
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