Crohn's Disease

Overview

Crohn's disease causes chronic inflammation of the digestive tract, most commonly, the small intestine (ileitis). Periodic flare-ups lead to bouts of stomach (abdominal) pain, severe diarrhea, weight loss and low energy. There is no cure, but treatment can reduce inflammation and ease your symptoms, sometimes for long periods of remission. Crohn's disease is one type of inflammatory bowel disease.

Why choose Mayo Clinic

• Experience. Each year, Mayo Clinic doctors diagnose and treat hundreds of adults and children with Crohn's disease. Mayo specializes in helping people with severe symptoms that haven't responded well to treatment in the past.
• Cutting-edge medicine. Mayo Clinic patients have access to the latest diagnostic and treatment technologies. State-of-the-art imaging helps Mayo doctors diagnose and treat your IBD. Most colorectal surgery at Mayo uses minimally invasive techniques.
• Team approach. Treating Crohn's disease takes cooperation from specialists in digestive diseases (gastroenterology), surgery, pathology, radiology and nutrition care. Mayo specialists work together to ensure that you receive all the expertise you need.
• Comprehensive care. Crohn's disease can cause other health problems such as osteoporosis or liver disease. Virtually all medical services you might need are available "under one roof" at Mayo Clinic.
• Time for you. Your Mayo Clinic doctor will take time to discuss options and answer your questions about Crohn's disease.
• New ideas. Mayo Clinic researchers are investigating new ways to diagnose and treat Crohn's disease, including clinical trials of new medications. You have access to the expertise of Mayo's clinician-researchers.

Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn., ranks No. 1 for digestive disorders in the U.S. News & World Report Best Hospitals rankings. Mayo Clinic in Scottsdale, Ariz., and Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, Fla., are ranked high performing for digestive disorders by U.S. News & World Report.

Read more about Crohn's disease.