There are a number of tests that can be carried out to diagnose Crohn’s disease. The ones used will depend on the part of the gut that is affected. Tests that may be used include:

* Stool tests
* Blood tests – to check for anaemia and other deficiencies
* Biopsy – analysis of a small sample of the gut lining
* Sigmoidoscopy – an investigation of the lower bowel using a short, flexible telescope
* Colonoscopy – investigation of the colon using a long, flexible telescope.

Also if you have symptoms in the upper part of your gut, an endoscopy may be conducted. This involves using an endoscope (a thin, flexible telescope) which is passed down the oesophagus enabling investigation of the stomach.

Another common technique in diagnosing Crohns disease is the use of a barium X-ray, either of the large intestine (barium enema) or small intestine (barium meal). Barium is usually given in liquid form and will appear white on X-rays, highlighting which parts of the gut are affected.

Further tests and scans may be carried out if a diagnosis of Chrohn’s disease is still in doubt.