Crohn's Disease FAQ Forest Hills
Medically reviewed by Dr. Yuriy Israel, MD, Board-Certified Gastroenterologist & Internal Medicine | 15+ Years Experience | Last Updated: April 2026
Get answers to Crohn’s disease questions from Dr. Yuriy Israel. Learn about causes, diagnosis, treatment, and diet recommendations.
Understanding Crohn's Disease
Q:
how do you get crohn's disease?
A:
Crohn’s disease is an autoimmune disease where your immune system attacks the lining of your digestive tract. It’s often genetic, but environmental factors like diet may also play a role.
Q:
is crohn's disease fatal?
A:
If not diagnosed or treated properly, Crohn’s disease can lead to severe complications and can be fatal. Proper diagnosis and treatment are crucial.
Diagnosis
Q:
how is crohn's disease diagnosed?
A:
Crohn’s disease is diagnosed through a combination of blood work, stool tests, colonoscopy, capsule endoscopy, and MRI.
Q:
how reliable is capsule endoscopy for diagnosing crohn's disease?
A:
This test is reliable in diagnosing bleeding lesions, Crohn’s disease and possible tumors of the small bowel. Capsule endoscopy is used in conjunction with imaging studies such as CT enterography or MR enterography.
Treatment & Diet
Q:
what is the best medicine for crohn's disease?
A:
There is no one best medication. Treatment varies depending on the individual, and different medications work for different patients. It’s a matter of finding the right medication through trial and error.
Q:
what foods to avoid with crohn's disease?
A:
During a flare-up, avoid raw proteins like sushi and rare steak, and processed foods. Once in remission, dietary restrictions can be relaxed but should still avoid processed foods.
Living With Crohn's
Q:
does crohn's disease cause weight loss?
A:
Yes, especially during flare-ups when symptoms are active, Crohn’s disease can cause weight loss.
Contact us for learn more
Medical Disclaimer: The answers on this page are for general educational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice or a treatment plan. Crohn’s disease presents differently in each patient, and management decisions should be made in consultation with a qualified gastroenterologist. Call (718) 261-0900 to schedule an appointment.