Living fully with Crohn’s disease is possible. Find resources and a community to support you on your journey.
Crohn’s disease is a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that causes chronic inflammation in the digestive tract, most commonly the small intestine or colon. It can lead to pain, fatigue, nutritional problems, and serious complications over time.
Crohn’s symptoms vary from person to person—and they may come and go, or flare unexpectedly. Common signs include:
If you're experiencing these symptoms, advocate for a GI referral and testing like a colonoscopy or stool analysis.
Living with asthma? Our community member, Eriel, knows a thing or two about managing flare-ups or asthma attacks.
Here are a few factors that might put you at risk for Crohn’s disease:
Crohn’s can’t be cured, but it can be managed. With the right tools, care team, and lifestyle adjustments, many people live full and active lives.
No one-size-fits-all diet, but many find relief with:
Clinical studies give you access to the latest treatments, but Black people remain underrepresented in research:
When found early, lung cancer can be treated more effectively, but Black people are less likely to be offered curative treatments like surgery. Empowering our community with knowledge and advocacy can help close that gap.
Common types of blood pressure medications include:
We read the online discourse on Crohn’s disease and found that our community is looking for:
The social stigma surrounding gastrointestinal symptoms creates significant barriers for many individuals with Crohn’s. Younger people often feel embarrassed to discuss symptoms like rectal bleeding, frequent diarrhea, or the urgent need for a bathroom.
People with Crohn’s frequently encounter significant financial and bureaucratic challenges when accessing treatments. Advanced medications are often prohibitively expensive, and securing insurance coverage can be a cumbersome process.
The Black community faces numerous treatment barriers when dealing with IBD. Many report feeling marginalized within the healthcare system, noting that they frequently encounter delays in referrals to specialists and access to advanced therapies. This not only prolongs their suffering but also heightens their sense of frustration and helplessness.
Many people with Crohn’s disease live active, fulfilling lives. Explore the resources below.
Listen to how Deanna is navigating life with Crohn’s.
Use this search tool to find a GI specialist that fits your racial and cultural background.
Explore these tips for Black people with Crohn’s disease to get the best care.
Many people with IBD live active, fulfilling lives. Explore the resources below.
