Bones. Crohn’s disease, and the corticosteroid drugs used to treat it, can cause osteopenia (low bone density) and osteoporosis (bone loss).
Anemia. Internal blood loss from ulcers in the intestine is a particular problem in Crohn's disease because of the impaired ability to absorb vitamins and minerals necessary for blood production.
Liver and Gallbladder Disorders. Patients have a higher than average risk for mild but not severe liver abnormalities. They have double the normal risk for gallstones.
 | Click the icon to see an image of gallstones. |
Mouth Sores. Canker sores are common, and when they occur they persist. Those at higher risk are males and younger people. Mouth yeast infections also common in Crohn's disease.
Skin Disorders. Patients with Crohn’s disease are likely to develop red knot-like swellings. Such swellings or other skin lesions, such as ulcers, may spread to sites far removed from the colon, (including the arms and legs.) People with Crohn's disease have an increased risk for psoriasis.
Thromboembolism (Blood Clots). Clots may occur, most likely in lower extremities and pelvic area.
 | Click the icon to see an image of a thrombus. |
Urinary Tract and Kidney Disorders. Urinary tract infections are common. Patients have an increased risk for kidney stones. Amyloidosis (deposits of a protein called amyloid in the kidney or other organs) is a rare but very serious kidney condition.
 | Click the icon to see an image of kidney stones. |
Delayed Growth and Development in Children. Up to half of children with Crohn’s disease have impaired physical growth, and nearly all are underweight. About 30% reach puberty later, but once it occurs, hormonal cycles tend to be normal.
Infertility. Infertility rates are only slightly lower than average. Active disease at conception increases risk for miscarriage or prematurity. Men may have lower sperm count during active disease or because of impaired nutrition, but in general fertility is normal.
Menstrual Problems. Menstrual problems in women are common, including premenstrual disorder, abnormal bleeding, and pain. Pain with intercourse occurs in about half of patients. Sexual function may be impaired, not only because of the emotional impact, but also by treatment side effects and complications of the disease, such as fistulas.
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