When Your Child Contracts Crohn’s Disease Approximately 30% of
those who suffer from Crohn’s Disease are diagnosed before the
age of 20. The illness is a chronic condition, meaning there is
no known cure. A child with unexplained weight loss, fatigue,
joint pain, and stunted growth should be immediately evaluated
by a doctor for signs of the disease. Experts estimate that more
than 100,000 teenagers suffer from the debilitating disease in
America. Sometimes more serious symptoms appear requiring
immediate attention. These symptoms include rectal bleeding,
severe stomach pain, frequent diarrhea, and accompanied by
vomiting. Crohn’s Disease is an inflammatory disease that
attacks the gastrointestinal tract, from the mouth to the anus,
which is what makes it distinctive from other irritable bowel
problems. Crohn’s presents a special challenge for young
sufferers as it may stunt growth and cause a delay in the onset
of puberty as well as a weakening of the bones. The illness may
keep a young person from taking pa