Health Tip: Crohn's Disease Can Cause Complications

(HealthDay News) -- Crohn's disease causes portions of the digestive tract to swell. This can trigger pain and cause the intestines to empty frequently.

Swelling and scar tissue can trigger dangerous complications, including a blockage in the intestines, the U.S. National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse says.

The agency says additional complications of Crohn's could include:

• Ulcers called fistulas that form in the intestinal tract and may tunnel to surrounding tissue.

• Malnutrition or vitamin deficiencies.

• Anemia.

• Slowed growth in children.

• Bone problems, including osteoporosis.