Next Steps

Follow-up

The child or teen with Crohn's disease should have regular visits with his or her healthcare team. The purpose of these visits is to reduce symptoms, achieve or maintain remission, and prevent complications. These visits allow the team to monitor symptoms, check for side effects, and adjust treatment if necessary. These visits also allow the parents to communicate any problems to the child's care team. Any emotional or behavioral problems should be reported as well as any physical problems.

Crohn's disease usually can be managed on an outpatient basis. Children and teens with the disease are not routinely admitted to the hospital. Hospitalization is warranted if there is any suggestion of a serious complication (obstruction, perforation, abscess, hemorrhage) or a need for intravenous medication in a severe flare.