Crohn’s disease affects the whole gastrointestinal (GI) tract, and it can also cause a liver problem termed primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC). PSC is uncommon, affecting up to 32 persons out of every 100,000, yet it is exceedingly dangerous and can cause liver failure. PSC is a disorder that causes the bile ducts to shrink (which is crucial for digesting fat) and the liver to become inflamed and scarred (fibrosis). PSC is a long-term sickness that grows worse over time. It can arise with or without inflammatory bowel illnesses (IBDs) like Crohn’s.
About half of persons with PSC don’t have any symptoms for a long time, but when they do, they may have pain in the upper right abdomen, itchy skin, and tiredness. Dr. Pratima Dibba, a gastroenterologist at the Medical Offices of Manhattan, says that both PSC and Crohn’s disease damage the GI system. She also said that having Crohn’s disease makes you more likely to get colon cancer. If you also have PSC, your risk goes up even more. PSC has no cure, but early detection can help manage symptoms and prevent complications. You should recognize the signs and symptoms and see your doctor often. Read the article.
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