The NHS is urging people to consult their GP if they spot a telltale symptom that can appear anywhere on the body. It most frequently manifests on the legs, and according to their official website, it may be a sign of a condition with no cure.
Health professionals caution that « patches of painful, red, and swollen skin – usually on the legs » could indicate Crohn’s disease. This is a lifelong condition with no known cure. It happens when part of your gut becomes inflamed and for many it can be painful.
The exact cause remains unknown and there’s no evidence suggesting a specific diet triggers Crohn’s disease. Experts believe several factors may contribute, including:
- diarrhoea – which may come on suddenly
- stomach aches and cramps – most often in the lower-right part of your tummy
- blood in your poo
- tiredness (fatigue)
- weight loss
You might not have all these symptoms. Some people with Crohn’s disease also have:
- a high temperature
- feeling and being sick
- joint pains
- sore, red eyes
- patches of painful, red and swollen skin – usually on the legs
- mouth ulcers
- Children with Crohn’s disease may grow more slowly than usual
Symptoms can be persistent or intermittent. When they come back, medical professionals describe this as a « flare-up. »
Should I see my GP?
See a GP if you or your child have:
- blood in your poo
- diarrhoea for more than 7 days
- frequent stomach aches or cramps
- lost weight for no reason, or your child’s not growing as fast as you’d expect
Should your GP suspect Crohn’s disease, you’ll be referred to a gastroenterologist who will conduct diagnostic tests. Investigations you may undergo include a colonoscopy. It sounds scary, and for some, it can be uncomfortable. But if you need support, just ask your GP. If you don’t know what this is, a thin, flexible tube with a camera at the end is inserted into your bottom to look for inflammation in your bowel.
You may also have a biopsy where tiny pieces of your bowel are removed during a colonoscopy and checked for signs of Crohn’s disease. As well as this, an MRI scan or CT scan is also an option. You may need to have a special drink first to make your bowel show up clearly on the scan.
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