1800 54 37 37​
Book an appointment

Understanding Crohn’s Disease

Summary

Crohn’s disease (CD) is a long-term condition that causes inflammation in the digestive tract. The exact cause is unknown, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic, immune, and environmental factors.

Common symptoms include persistent diarrhea, weight loss, and stomach pain—often in the lower right side of the abdomen, which can sometimes be mistaken for appendicitis.

A colonoscopy with tissue biopsy is needed to confirm the diagnosis. Because Crohn’s disease is a complex condition requiring ongoing care, specialist involvement is important from the time of diagnosis to ensure proper treatment and monitoring.

The main goals of treatment are to control symptoms, maintain remission (a period without symptoms), and prevent complications.

Diagnosis and When to Seek Help

If your child has frequent diarrhea, unexplained weight loss, stomach pain, fatigue, or poor growth, it’s important to consult a doctor. Other signs may include anemia (low iron levels) or delayed puberty.

A specialist will diagnose Crohn’s disease using:

  • Colonoscopy and ileoscopy: A procedure to examine the digestive tract and collect tissue samples.
  • Tissue biopsy: A small sample of intestinal tissue to confirm inflammation.
  • Blood and stool tests: To check for signs of infection, inflammation, and nutrient deficiencies.

Management

Although there is no cure for Crohn’s disease, treatment can help control inflammation and improve quality of life. Common approaches include:

  • Medications: Anti-inflammatory drugs, immune system suppressors, and biologic therapies to reduce inflammation and prevent flare-ups.
  • Nutritional support: Special diets or supplements may be recommended, especially if growth is affected.
  • Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be needed to remove damaged parts of the intestine or manage complications.

Because treatment can have side effects, regular medical follow-ups are essential.

Follow-Up and Monitoring

Ongoing care is crucial to prevent complications such as intestinal blockages, abscesses, or fistulas (abnormal connections between parts of the intestine). Crohn’s disease can also affect other parts of the body, leading to joint pain, skin rashes, or eye inflammation.

With the right treatment and support, children with Crohn’s disease can manage their symptoms and lead active lives.

History and Exam

Key diagnostic factor

  • presence of risk factors
  • abdominal pain
  • prolonged diarrhoea
  • perianal lesions

Other diagnostic factors

  • bowel obstruction
  • blood in stools
  • fever
  • fatigue

Risk factor

  • white ethnicity and Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry
  • age 15-40 or 50-60 years
  • family history of CD
  • cigarette smoking

Diagnostic Investigations

1st investigations to order

  • FBC
  • iron studies (serum iron, serum ferritin, total iron binding capacity [TIBC], transferrin saturation)
  • serum vitamin B12
  • serum folate

Investigations to consider

  • abdominal and pelvic ultrasonography
  • ileocolonoscopy
  • tissue biopsy
  • oesophagogastroduodenoscopy

Emerging tests

  • serological markers

Book an Appointment

    1 Reason for referral *

    2 Parent Surname *

    3 Patient First Name *

    4 Email *

    5 Patient Surname *

    6 Phone *

    7 Child’s date of birth *

    8 Address

    Other Related Conditions

    coeliac disease

    Inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s disease or Ulcerative Colitis)

    Eosinophilic Oesophagitis

    cow’s milk protein intolerance, food allergies

    irritable bowel syndrome (ibs)

    reflux & vomiting

    failure to thrive

    constipation or diarrhoea

    incontinence

    chronic abdominal pain

    gastroparesis

    liver disease

    Contact Us

    medical
    dental
    PSYCHOLOGY
    1800 54 37 37​
    Book an appointment

    COPYRIGHT © 2025. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

      1 Reason for referral *

      2 Parent Surname *

      3 Patient First Name *

      4 Email *

      5 Patient Surname *

      6 Phone *

      7 Child’s date of birth *

      8 Address

      Social and emotional functioning refers to a child’s ability to understand, express, and manage their emotions, as well as to interact effectively with others. These skills are fundamental for building positive relationships, developing empathy, and coping with the everyday challenges of growing up.

      Children who experience difficulties in social and emotional functioning may struggle with recognizing their own feelings or those of others, regulating emotional responses, or responding appropriately in social situations. This can lead to challenges such as anxiety, low self-esteem, difficulty making friends, or misunderstandings with peers and adults.

      In the school environment, social and emotional difficulties can impact a child’s engagement, cooperation, and overall learning experience. Emotional distress may manifest as withdrawal, irritability, or disruptive behaviour, which can further affect academic progress and peer relationships.

      Assessment of social and emotional functioning as part of a neuropsychological evaluation typically includes behavioural observations, standardized rating scales, and information gathered from parents, teachers, and sometimes the child. This comprehensive approach helps identify strengths and areas for support in emotional regulation, social skills, and adaptive behaviours.

      Understanding a child’s social-emotional profile allows for the development of tailored strategies to enhance emotional wellbeing, build resilience, and improve social communication. Early intervention and supportive environments can empower children to navigate their emotions more effectively, fostering confidence and meaningful connections. 

      At Offspring Health, we aim to provide transparent information about the costs involved in neurodevelopmental and educational assessments.

      Neuropsychological assessments typically involve multiple sessions that usually take between 8 and 16 hours in total, depending on the complexity and individual needs. Our hourly rate is $260, so the total cost typically ranges between $2,300 and $4,230.

      Fees generally cover:

      • Initial consultation and history gathering
      • Testing sessions where your child will complete various fun and interactive tasks
      • Liaison with schools or health professionals as needed
      • Comprehensive case analysis and report preparation
      • Feedback sessions with families and, where applicable, educators or other professionals

      Please note that standard neuropsychological assessments are generally not covered by Medicare. However, some assessments and therapy services may be funded through the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) for eligible participants. We recommend discussing funding options with your NDIS planner or support coordinator prior to booking. Private health insurance may offer partial rebates depending on your level of coverage.

      What’s the next step?

      Please phone reception for a discussion about your needs or email psychology@offspringhealth.com