Crohn's disease is an immune system disorder that mainly affects the gut but can also cause inflammation elsewhere in the body. This can lead to a variety of additional health problems. Here are some conditions associated with Crohn's disease. People with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) may also have asthma or other respiratory issues like emphysema, chronic bronchitis, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Chronic intestinal inflammation raises the risk of colon cancer, so people with Crohn's should get more frequent colonoscopies to ensure early detection of any precancerous polyps or potentially cancerous tumors. Being depressed or anxious doesn't cause Crohn's disease, but mental and physical health are interwoven. During tough times, symptoms and flares are more likely. Conversely, dealing with the discomfort of Crohn's, the potential embarrassment, and logistical issues of frequent bathroom breaks, and the stress of having a chronic condition can lead to depression or anxiety in some people with IBD. If this happens, seek help. People with IBD (including Crohn's and ulcerative colitis) are more likely to develop heart disease due to higher levels of inflammation affecting the heart and blood vessels. Osteoporosis or thinning bones may be an issue for severe IBD patients who have trouble absorbing calcium and vitamin D. Those taking steroid medications (like prednisone) to manage their condition are also at risk, as osteoporosis is a well-known side effect of these drugs. Crohn's is an autoimmune condition, meaning it is caused by a defect in the body's immune system that causes it to attack healthy tissue. If you have one autoimmune ailment, you're more likely to develop others. While not common, people with Crohn's are more likely than others to develop rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and multiple sclerosis, which are all autoimmune diseases.