Final answer:
Crohn's disease is a type of inflammatory bowel disease affecting any part of the GI tract. Major symptoms include abdominal pain and diarrhea, and it can significantly impact daily life, including student activities and school attendance.
Step-by-step explanation:
Crohn's disease is an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that can affect any part of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract from the mouth to the anus. The hallmarks of Crohn's disease include abdominal pain, diarrhea, possibly with blood, fever, weight loss, and sometimes skin rashes. Unlike its counterpart, ulcerative colitis, which mainly affects the colon and rectum, Crohn's disease can affect the entire digestive tract, including the ileum at the end of the small intestine. People suffering from Crohn's disease often experience periods of flare-ups followed by periods of remission. Environmental factors like smoking and a diet high in animal protein can increase the risk of developing Crohn's disease, while genetic factors also play a significant role.
There is currently no cure for Crohn's disease, but symptoms can sometimes be managed with anti-inflammatory or immune-suppressing medication, along with lifestyle changes like diet modifications and smoking cessation. Frequent doctor visits, hospitalizations, and a reduced quality of life are common concerns for individuals with IBD, particularly impacting students by affecting their strength, stamina, concentration, and participation in school activities.