Q: where can we find best treatment in USA for Colitis or Crohn’s disease?
one of our friend’s son has a Colitis disease and we are looking for a help in USA, where can we find best treatment in USA, please help. thanks

A: Check sites like centerwatch to see what kinds of clinical trials are out there. Usually facilities who perform many clinical trials for specific diseases are the leaders in their field. Good luck.

Q: When comparing Chron’s disease and ulcerative colitis, which of the following is true?
1.The cause of Chron’s disease is known, whereas the cause of ulcerative colitis isn’t known.
2. Chron’s disease can be found anywhere in the digestive tract, whereas ulcerative colitis is generally found in the colon and rectum.
3. Patients with both conditions benefit equally well from surgery.
4. Ulcerative colitis is remitting, whereas Chron’s disease is constant.

A: I have Crohn’s Disease so I’m going on what I have read about them both;

1. False. It’s not known what kicks off Crohn’s.
2. True. I have Crohn’s in both intestine (large & Small) and in my esophagus.
3. Surgery for both can give you years symptom free but can keep coming back, it is not a cure. Trouble is you can run out of intestine to remove after so long.
4. Crohn’s Disease can go into remission if treated.

I hope this helps you!! )

Q: When comparing Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, which of the following is TRUE?
A. the cause of Crohn’s disease is known, whereas the cause of ulcerative coitis isnt known.
B. Ulcreative colitis is remitting, whereas Crohns disease is constant.
C.Patints with both conditions benefit equally well from surgery.
D. Crohns disease can be found anywhere in the digestive tract whereas ulcraive colitis is generally found in the colon and rectum.

A: D.

Q: What is the difference between Crohn’s disease and Ulceretive colitis?
How to recognize Crohn’s disease and Ulcerative colitis right away?
I appreciate your help.

A: It is very difficult to distinguish between CD and UC based on clinical inspection alone, as both are inflammatory processes that may cause diarrhea and bleeding. However, CD causes involvement of any part of the GI tract, from mouth to anus, and thus manifestations of the esophagus, stomach (i.e. upper GI bleed present as black stool), small intestine (malabsorption), or mouth (such as oral aphthous ulcers) are good clues that you may be dealing with CD rather than UC. In contrast, UC is limited to the colon and thus will not cause the extracolonic effects I mentioned.

Patient information may also help, as CD is seen in younger people (with high prevalence in Jewish people), while UC is most commonly seen in older people.

Otherwise, definitive diagnosis is based on endoscopic and histological evidence of specific etiology.

Q: How many people have heard of Krohns Disease or Ulcerative Colitis?
I do a lot of work to bring about awareness of Krohn’s Disease (which I have) and Ulcerative Colitis, so I was wondering how many people really know what it is. If you do, where did you learn about it? If you know someone with either would you be willing to share a story about it with me? Especially if the person is younger, like me and the people I talk to about it…Do you have any questions about it you would like to ask me? Thanks so much!
*Crohn’s, sorry for the mispelling, it was a typo

A: I have known a few people with Crohn’s disease, and with Ulcerative Colitis. There are a couple of groups on Yahoo that can help you meet others with the disease, and can help you with symptoms, medicines, and other issues. I joined a group for IBD and it really helps with food choices, and figuring out what to expect.

Q: Any ideas on ways to cheer up my mom who is suffering from Crohn’s Disease (Colitis)?
She can’t eat much, she’s received more than enough flowers, she can’t leave the house, and I don’t live in the same city as her. She’s really down due to being stuck and home for weeks and terribly sick. Ideas??

A: I have Crohn’s and the best present to me was comforting words and prayer. A present that made me laugh was a case of very soft tissue paper and a variety of reading material. (My friend with Crohn’s gave me that)

Q: What are the differences between Crohns disease and Ulcerative Colitis?
I would really prefer an expert or a personal account and not a google search, Thank You.

A: ulcerative colitis (UC) and crohn’s disease are both inflammatory bowel diseases of which the cause is still unknown. The main difference is the parts they affect. Crohn’s can affect any part of the digestive tract from the mouth to the anus whereas UC only affects the large bowel.

Going into more detail:
Crohn’s has so called skip lesions, where the inflammation extends up the digestive tract but misses sections out and ’skips’ from one part to the next. Whereas UC is continous inflammation of the colon with no skips.
In crohn’s deep ulcers and fissures are seen in the lining of the digestive tract and they have a cobblestone appearance. In UC the lining is red and bleeds and sometimes has ulcers and pseudo polyps.
In crohn’s the iflammation is not confined to the lining but can spread outwards through the tissue of the bowel and granulomata may be present. However in UC only the lining of the bowel is inflammed and no granulomata are present. but goblet cell depletion and crypt abscesses can be found.

Q: What foods are harsh on you if you’re prone to ulcerative colitis or chrones disease?
Or what foods are beneficial also

Thanks
My friend has to go get checked for it, but it runs in her family so I want to give her some advice, thanks

A: Those are 2 different diseases.

Chrons people can’t eat seeds.

I have UC. I can pretty much eat what I want but I try not to eat alot of bread products or too many things with yeast. If I’m having a flareup, then I stop eating rough food like salads, and raw vegetables.

At my worst, about the only think I can eat is meat.

Q: What symptoms do Crohns disease and ulcerative colitis share?

A: Diarrhea (bloody diarrhea is more common in UC but can appear in CD)
Stomach pain & cramps
Fatigue, dehydration and weight loss

Q: What are the symptoms of Chrons disease and Ulcerative Colitis?
Something isnt right with me lately, (this is my symptoms) I have abdominal pain for 1 month now in the same area (lower right side) and pale yellow diarreah that is sometimes once a day to ten times a day…I am constantly tired and in pain.. they ruled out appendicitis, cysts, a hernia, and bowel obstruction….they think i might have one of these disorders listed above, I have a young baby to take care of and I feel like crap, any information would be greatly appreciated thank you!

A: I would look up either Celiac Disease or since you have a baby: Endometriosis. Look those up. They sound like your symptoms. But don’t worry, these are treatable!

Good luck and I hope this helps!

Q: Any pregnant ladies out there with Crohn’s Disease or colitis?
And just wondering how you are doing during your pregnancy?

I had a major flare during my first pregnancy, and minor symptoms during my second. I went into remission for almost two years and have been having problems again during this pregnancy, but I think it’s more due to pregnancy than the illness.

Were any of you flaring during delivery and did you have a vaginal or opt for a c-section?

A: Hi. I have mild crohn’s disease and I flared up a little with my first pregnancy and this one. I strongly believe it has to do more with the pregnancy…maybe the hormones because it happens much more when I am pregnant as opposed to when I’m not. I haven’t had our 2nd yet and I flared up a little during delivery with our first. I would never get a c-section unless I had to so I had our son vaginally. Good luck

Q: alsraetis colitis disease?
alsraetis colitis disease

A: *** are you talking about Ulcerative colitis??? If you are, it is a serious disease that causes ulcers and irritation in the inner lining of the colon and rectum

Q: Is anyone being driven crazy by colitis or chrons disease?
It’s driving me crazy……

A: YESSSSS!!!! I fre@kin hate it already. I have had it for 16 years. Right now I am in remission, but still going to the bathroom all the time. My Dr. thinks my intestines all so scared from all the surgeries that they don’t work right anymore. LOVELY!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Q: Do i have Crohn’s Disease or Ulcerative Colitis?
Okay i asked my doctor about this and he thinks i have Crohn’s Disease but on the other hand he thinks i may Ulcerative Colitis. Here are my symptoms..

Go to the bathroom about 4 -5 times a day with blood
Never had any pain
Don’t have fistulate or anything on my skin (rashes, marks)
Lost some weight
was never annemic
My entire colon was inflammed
just a little bit of inflamation on my illieum but not enough to cause anything.
Never had a fever nor vomitted
Never really felt sick

Do these symptoms sound like Crohn’s or Colitis disease? Hope you guys can help!
Well my rectum area is inflammed and i do see a GI specialist. I’m not so sure if he is a good one though because he doesn’t seem to know a lot. I did get a colonscopy and the doctor said it looks like you have UC. But after doing this one test in Cali they determined i have Crohn’s. It’s very strange though because i don’t really feel like i have crohn’s, i mean yeah i go to the bathroom a lot of times but it’s not like i feel terrible. It’s just annoying and the only reason i go to the doctor is because there’s blood. Anyway after the colonscopy i do have relatively mild – moderate inflammation. I’m on remicade right now and had my second infusion one week ago. So far i am going to the bathroom 1 – 2 times a day. There is still a little bit of blood but nothing like before. Do you think this remicade is working on my so far or after two infusions i should be healed by now?

A: hi henry, as a crohn’s survivor I can tell you that Crohn’s can and does affect anywhere in the digestive tract from the mouth, esophagus, small intestines, large intestines, rectum, and anus. A colonoscopy & biopsy plus Prometheus blood work can properly dx what you have.

The Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of America has a website you can go to find the necessary info you are looking for plus they have a live chat & a hotline that is run by healthcare professionals.

Are you on any treatments now such as Remicade, Humira, Entocort, 6MP, or Imuran? You need to be on something for the inflammation.

Some ppl are lucky with their illness as they aren’t in much pain or they are put in remission after being on medication and staying on it.

Good luck to you.

Q: What impact does drinking water have on chronic disease such as ulcerative colitis?

A: In a condition with chronic ulcerative colitis that involves chronic diarrhea, the risk of dehydration always exists. If fluid intake does not keep up with diarrhea, kidney function may be affected. Patients with Crohn’s/Ulcerative colitis, and other diarrheal diseases have an increased incidence of kidney stones, which is related to this problem. Furthermore, dehydration and salt loss create a feeling of weakness. For these reasons, people with IBD should consume ample fluids-especially in warm weather when loss of salt and water through the skin may be high. A good rule of thumb is to drink one half ounce per day for every pound of body weight. That means that if you weight 140 pounds, you should drink at least 70 ounces a day — or eight and three-quarters glasses. Sip your beverages, rather than gulp them. By introducing air into the digestive system, gulping can cause discomfort.

Q: where can we find best treatment in USA for Colitis or Crohn’s disease?
one of our friend’s son has a Colitis disease and we are looking for a help in USA, where can we find best treatment in USA, please help. thanks

A: Check sites like centerwatch to see what kinds of clinical trials are out there. Usually facilities who perform many clinical trials for specific diseases are the leaders in their field. Good luck.

Q: Any ideas on ways to cheer up my mom who is suffering from Crohn’s Disease (Colitis)?
She can’t eat much, she’s received more than enough flowers, she can’t leave the house, and I don’t live in the same city as her. She’s really down due to being stuck and home for weeks and terribly sick. Ideas??

A: I have Crohn’s and the best present to me was comforting words and prayer. A present that made me laugh was a case of very soft tissue paper and a variety of reading material. (My friend with Crohn’s gave me that)

Q: Do i have Crohn’s Disease or Ulcerative Colitis?
Okay i asked my doctor about this and he thinks i have Crohn’s Disease but on the other hand he thinks i may Ulcerative Colitis. Here are my symptoms..

Go to the bathroom about 4 -5 times a day with blood
Never had any pain
Don’t have fistulate or anything on my skin (rashes, marks)
Lost some weight
was never annemic
My entire colon was inflammed
just a little bit of inflamation on my illieum but not enough to cause anything.
Never had a fever nor vomitted
Never really felt sick

Do these symptoms sound like Crohn’s or Colitis disease? Hope you guys can help!
Well my rectum area is inflammed and i do see a GI specialist. I’m not so sure if he is a good one though because he doesn’t seem to know a lot. I did get a colonscopy and the doctor said it looks like you have UC. But after doing this one test in Cali they determined i have Crohn’s. It’s very strange though because i don’t really feel like i have crohn’s, i mean yeah i go to the bathroom a lot of times but it’s not like i feel terrible. It’s just annoying and the only reason i go to the doctor is because there’s blood. Anyway after the colonscopy i do have relatively mild – moderate inflammation. I’m on remicade right now and had my second infusion one week ago. So far i am going to the bathroom 1 – 2 times a day. There is still a little bit of blood but nothing like before. Do you think this remicade is working on my so far or after two infusions i should be healed by now?

A: hi henry, as a crohn’s survivor I can tell you that Crohn’s can and does affect anywhere in the digestive tract from the mouth, esophagus, small intestines, large intestines, rectum, and anus. A colonoscopy & biopsy plus Prometheus blood work can properly dx what you have.

The Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of America has a website you can go to find the necessary info you are looking for plus they have a live chat & a hotline that is run by healthcare professionals.

Are you on any treatments now such as Remicade, Humira, Entocort, 6MP, or Imuran? You need to be on something for the inflammation.

Some ppl are lucky with their illness as they aren’t in much pain or they are put in remission after being on medication and staying on it.

Good luck to you.

Q: Crohn’s Disease/Colitis – A little upset?
Alright so, my problem is that I might have Colitis or Crohn’s disease. Thursday I woke up with a stomach ache and it kind a little worse over the day but it wasn’t really bad, I’ve had worse. I had a little bit of cramps too. So I got a fever with it around 8:30 and my mom took me to the ER to get a check up, and about 30 – 40 mins being there my stomach ache was virtually gone but my mom wanted me to go through with the CT Scan they originally were going to do. So I did all the stuff they wanted me to do before it, drank some water with some weird stuff in it and got a blood sample and they gave me morphine and IV for some reason. After the morphine I felt like CRAP (Bad dizzyness and woosyness) then about an hour later did the CT Scan, they found out I didn’t have what they thought I did which was a appendicitis, but my doctor said I have a slight inflammation in my intestine which could indicate colitis or Crohn’s disease, then the next day I woke up with a bad stomach ache but I think that might of been from all the crap the hospital gave me because my arm was also in pain from the IV and stuff. I woke up today and felt almost 100% better but now have a little discomfort in my stomach (No pain at all, just feels kinda weird) and have a little diarrhea, but my doctor had prescribed me a stool softener (don’t need to take it now) and also gave me vikidin, which I have no idea why unless he thought my stomach ache was THAT bad but it wasn’t at all. So I’m going to take some medicine tonight (probably some diarrhea type like Pepto bismal) and see if my stomach ache is gone completely tomorrow (It’s been getting ALOT less worse over time)

but basically my question is, what chance is there that I have Crohn’s disease or Colitis? And if it turns out I do is there any severity to it? I’ve been reading about it and said it’s not that bad of a disease, and it’s possible to have remissions(periods of time you have very little or no symptoms at all) for months/years at a time, and the worse thing you would experience is a bad flare-up, so if I do have it is there any real thing to fear? (I don’t mean like death or anything) Just like severe pains or anything? I’m kind of shakey at the moment and I know I shouldn’t since my doctor doesn’t know for sure, but how hard is it to deal with this disease with your life?

I’m going back for a check-up maybe around Monday. And I turned 17 Dec 8 if that helps.
My doctor didn’t say specific Colitis or Crohn’s disease, he thought I had appendicitis at first, but took the CT Scan and said I was perfectly fine (everything with me was including my blood and all that) the only thing was I had slight inflammation in my intestines, no blocking or anything. And he said it could indicate either colitis or crohn’s. And I’m going back for a check-up soon and I’m going to ask my mom to tell them to get those specific tests done for me to check if I do, and I don’t have to worry about my weight for now, and I’ve been eating alot lately (nothing has upsetted my stomach so far) Just to make sure. And no, I don’t have a bad pain in my stomach, as I said just a little discomfort like stomach ache feeling, but I think that’s caused from the Diarrhea since I usually get a stomach ache when I have it.
And about the pain meds, yeahhh. My mom was really shocked when she saw the prescription, she doesn’t even want to give me the medicine (I’m not gonna take it) she said she’ll only give it to me if my stomach ache gets excrusiatingly bad, but if it gets bad enough to where I need vikidin I think I’d rather go the ER instead.

A: hi xx, I am a crohn’s survivor for many yrs. dxed at age 12.

If you check out the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation’s site, they have all of the accurate information you are looking for such as treatment, diet, surgery, coping, as well as locating a local support chapter near you as well as a hotline, live chat, and an open forum where you can post questions to others who have IBD (crohn’s or UC).

If you are in pain, you are entitled to be made comfortable until things are under control.

Definitely check out the site. It’s worth it!!

Q: guys would you date a girl with crohn’s/colitis disease?
my dr says i may have this. would you date a girl with this?
it is an inflammatory bowel disease

A: I’m not a guy– obviously–but I got married and I had Crohn’s. I also had lupus, endometriosis, interstitial cystitis… a lot of stuff. On our first date I told him I probably couldn’t have babies because of the endo. We’ve been married for 10 yrs now and I keep getting new diseases, some that really suck like ankylosing spondylitis. He has mild epilepsy and so can understand that horrible feeling of not being able to control your own body. We’re really happy. He’s taken me to colonoscopies and sat there for hours while I got Remicade infusions. He’s helped me to the bathroom when my AS was really severe.
It can be hard to find someone mature enough to handle it–I recommend dating someone a little bit older. It doesn’t have to be a lot older–I was 20 when I got married and he was 25. They have to be understanding enough to know that you’ll not always feel good and may have to cancel at the last minute, but it’s so possible to find someone. On the other hand, my sister has a degenerative form of Scheuermann’s kyphosis (a back disease that gives her a hump and hurts a lot) and she married a guy a year younger. They met on e-harmony. I met mine at the bookstore he worked at.
I don’t think my husband is a rare type for marrying someone who has illnesses. Just remember to consider yourself a person who just happens to have a disease, rather than a diseased person. It sounds little, but it makes a huuuuge difference, honest! You’re still *You*, you just happen to have something a bit ucky.
PS We were both virgins when we were married. I was too sick as a teen to fool around and he was very religious. It’s no big deal. My brother is 24 and is one because is fiance is scared of getting pregnant (even tho birth control *does* exist, jeez). Anyhow, you’re not a freak! Aren’t you sick of me answering your questions, lol? I guess I just really understand how you’re feeling and I really wish I could help. {{{hugs}}}

Q: When comparing Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, which of the following is TRUE?
A. the cause of Crohn’s disease is known, whereas the cause of ulcerative coitis isnt known.
B. Ulcreative colitis is remitting, whereas Crohns disease is constant.
C.Patints with both conditions benefit equally well from surgery.
D. Crohns disease can be found anywhere in the digestive tract whereas ulcraive colitis is generally found in the colon and rectum.

A: D.

Q: What is the difference between Crohn’s disease and Ulceretive colitis?
How to recognize Crohn’s disease and Ulcerative colitis right away?
I appreciate your help.

A: It is very difficult to distinguish between CD and UC based on clinical inspection alone, as both are inflammatory processes that may cause diarrhea and bleeding. However, CD causes involvement of any part of the GI tract, from mouth to anus, and thus manifestations of the esophagus, stomach (i.e. upper GI bleed present as black stool), small intestine (malabsorption), or mouth (such as oral aphthous ulcers) are good clues that you may be dealing with CD rather than UC. In contrast, UC is limited to the colon and thus will not cause the extracolonic effects I mentioned.

Patient information may also help, as CD is seen in younger people (with high prevalence in Jewish people), while UC is most commonly seen in older people.

Otherwise, definitive diagnosis is based on endoscopic and histological evidence of specific etiology.

Q: Any pregnant ladies out there with Crohn’s Disease or colitis?
And just wondering how you are doing during your pregnancy?

I had a major flare during my first pregnancy, and minor symptoms during my second. I went into remission for almost two years and have been having problems again during this pregnancy, but I think it’s more due to pregnancy than the illness.

Were any of you flaring during delivery and did you have a vaginal or opt for a c-section?

A: Hi. I have mild crohn’s disease and I flared up a little with my first pregnancy and this one. I strongly believe it has to do more with the pregnancy…maybe the hormones because it happens much more when I am pregnant as opposed to when I’m not. I haven’t had our 2nd yet and I flared up a little during delivery with our first. I would never get a c-section unless I had to so I had our son vaginally. Good luck

Q: can crohn’s disease/colitis cuase tremors in hands?
drs think i have this. can it cause this???

A: hi sru, I am a female crohn’s pt. for 29 yrs. dxed at the age of 12. Certain medications can cause tremors. The disease doesn’t. Here is accurate info from the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of America’s site:

What is Crohn’s Disease?

Crohn’s disease is a chronic (ongoing) disorder that causes inflammation of the digestive or gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Although it can involve any area of the GI tract from the mouth to the anus, it most commonly affects the small intestine and/or colon.

What Are the Symptoms?

Persistent diarrhea (loose, watery, or frequent bowel movements), crampy abdominal pain, fever, and, at times, rectal bleeding: These are the hallmark symptoms of Crohn’s disease, but they vary from person to person and may change over time. Loss of appetite and subsequent weight loss also may occur. However, the disease is not always limited to the GI tract; it can also affect the joints, eyes, skin, and liver. Fatigue is another common complaint. Children who have Crohn’s disease may suffer delayed growth and sexual development.

Some patients may develop tears (fissures) in the lining of the anus, which may cause pain and bleeding, especially during bowel movements. Inflammation may also cause a fistula to develop. A fistula is a tunnel that leads from one loop of intestine to another, or that connects the intestine to the bladder, vagina, or skin. Fistulas occur most commonly around the anal area. If this complication arises, you may notice drainage of mucus, pus, or stool from this opening.

Symptoms may range from mild to severe. Because Crohn’s is a chronic disease, patients will go through periods in which the disease flares up, is active, and causes symptoms. These episodes are followed by times of remission — periods in which symptoms disappear or decrease and good health returns. In general, though, people with Crohn’s disease lead full, active, and productive lives.

They have a live chat & a hotline that is run by healthcare experts you can talk to as well as a forum where you can post questions to others like yourself.

To get things under control, most GIs will try Entocort, Remicade, Humira, 6MP, Imuran, or Methotrexate. Surgery is a last resort if the person’s quality of life gets to the point where they can’t function in their daily life anymore.

Hope this helps and I wish you a quick remission.

Q: Has anyone tried Dr. Ray Lala’s healing mineral treatment for Crohn’s disease/Ulcerative Colitis?
While I will appreciate other remedies, I am specifically looking for results from the Dr. Lala treatment.

A: hi sm, I am a crohn’s pt. for over 20 yrs. Have you checked out the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation’s site for information?

They have tons of stuff ranging from diet, newer treatments to put pts. in remission faster, locating a local support chapter, as well as a live chat, a hotline, and an open forum where you can post questions to others who have IBD.

If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is. There are so many scams out there which will take our hard earned $$$ by offering false promises of a cure.

When a cure is found for IBD, I am sure it will hit the newpapers first as well as our GIs.

good luck to you.

Q: Crohn’s Disease, Ulcerative Colitis, calorie intake?
I have Crohn’s disease, and am in a severe flare-up. I’m one of the weird people who have gained weight while having Crohn’s disease, despite the malnutrition, and awful damage to my intestines. Perhaps it’s from the medications I’ve taken.

I’ve recently started the Specific Carbohydrate Diet for IBDs, in hopes it will help me, and I’ve noticed that I’m not getting very many calories, normally only 1400 at the most. As someone with Crohn’s, should I be eating more calories than that? I’d like to lose some of the weight I’ve gained since having Crohn’s, but my health is my first priority. I’d rather be a little heavy and healthy, than thin and even sicker than I already am.

A: Health is of course the first priority. If you’re a growing teenager, you ought eat more than 1400 calories – but if you’re finished growing, 1400 won’t kill you. However, it is rather meager. The simplest thing to do would be to eat more, but exercise to match.

I know it’s difficult to exercise with the lack of energy that Crohn’s and UC bring, but if you’re worried about putting on weight, it’s a decent way to combat that. You could also try asking your doctor about other meds that might not cause this problem.

Q: Crohn’s Disease / Ulcerative Colitis information sought.?
I am a 31 year old female, I was diagnosed with Crohn’s or Ulcerative Colitis in May and am currently awaiting a test from Promethius that is supposed to distinguish between the two, I go see my G.I. specialist for the results later this month. Has anyone had this test done? Is there going to be a final answer, or will I need more tests after this? Any helpful info you can offer? I have changed my diet, lost weight and have only had one flare-up since being in the hospital….
I guess I should add that I turned down medications when I was in the hospital. The on-duty GI Specialist wanted to put me on Prednisone and I declined and signed myself out of the hospital and went home. My doctor and my personal GI Specialist both agree that I did the right thing and say my case is mild compared to most. My regular doctor doesn’t even agree with the diagnosis of Crohn’s/UC and thinks I don’t need any medication.
Also to help with nutrition and my arthritis,every day I try to take:
2 Omega 3,6,9 Complete EFA
2 Probiotics by Jarrow Formulas
1 Colostrum by Jarrow Formulas
1 Calcium Magnesium Zinc
2 Glucosamine w/ MSM
2 Wellness Formula by Source Naturals

A: Hey I had UC so I know what your going through. A good website is www.livingwithuc.com. The flare ups are unpredictable and pretty terrible. I stopped taking the medicine because it made it worse. Lately Ive been drinking Kefir probiotic and it has helped (sometimes). I recommend taking the meds, im actually about to see my gastro so I canget back on that.

Q: For treatment of Crohn’s Disease (vs. Ulerative Colitis), do you recommend Prednisone or Entocort?
Since Crohn’s affects the whole digestive system (rather than the more localized areas in UC), I was wondering if any of you CD patients have had better (or at least adequate) flare treatment on Entocort, rather than on Prednisone. I’d love it if my daughter with CD could be treated with something other than Prednisone… Thank you.

A: I’ve had CD for about 10 years now. I was put on Entocort about a year and a half ago, and i love it! I have only had 2 flares since i’ve started taking it, and only had to be hospitalized for one. When the flares get acute, my doc puts me on the prednisone along with the entocort, but thats usually just for a two week period till everything calms down. As far as using Entocort for maintanence, i can’t say anything bad about it – I love it, its like a miracle drug to me!

Q: Do you or someone you know struggle with the pain of Crohn’s Disease or Ulcerative Colitis?
I was diagnosed 15 years ago, and this year I’m fighting back by riding my bicylce 210 miles in 3 days. To find out more, or to support me on this journey please visit www.ibdride.org/arwyatt

A: hi doc, i am a female crohn’s survivor dxed at the age of 12. Currently going in for outpt. surgery to have a fistula closed with surgical glue and stitches.

I hate this illness and wouldn’t wish it upon anyone. I am a local CCFA volunteer for our chapter but I had a stroke 3 yrs. ago so I can’t do much now.

Anyway, thank you for doing your part to bring attention to this disease. I hope to see a cure before too long.

God Bless You and may you have a successful ride and a long remission!!!

Q: Can clinical tests effectively distinguish between colitis and Crohn’s Disease?
Hello,
I had a colonoscopy done a week ago due to some severe abdominal pain and was subsequently put on Asacol. I got the biopsy results back today, and I either have infectious colitis or Crohn’s Disease. Based on my research, it is difficult to conclusively distinguish between colitis and Crohn’s. If I have infectious colitis, will I be on medication indefinitely? Or, is there anyone out there who knows what some distinguishing factors between the two might be? I am aware of the CCFA, but I would like some advice from people who are actually experiencing colitis/Crohn’s.

A: Crohn’s disease can effect anywhere from your throat to your rectum. Colitis only effects your colon. Your doctor should be able to tell which it is by a test or two.(Not quite sure which ones though it’s been awhile) You can always call and ask them though.

Q: When comparing Chron’s disease and ulcerative colitis, which of the following is true?
1.The cause of Chron’s disease is known, whereas the cause of ulcerative colitis isn’t known.
2. Chron’s disease can be found anywhere in the digestive tract, whereas ulcerative colitis is generally found in the colon and rectum.
3. Patients with both conditions benefit equally well from surgery.
4. Ulcerative colitis is remitting, whereas Chron’s disease is constant.

A: I have Crohn’s Disease so I’m going on what I have read about them both;

1. False. It’s not known what kicks off Crohn’s.
2. True. I have Crohn’s in both intestine (large & Small) and in my esophagus.
3. Surgery for both can give you years symptom free but can keep coming back, it is not a cure. Trouble is you can run out of intestine to remove after so long.
4. Crohn’s Disease can go into remission if treated.

I hope this helps you!! )

Q: When comparing Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, which of the following is TRUE?
A. the cause of Crohn’s disease is known, whereas the cause of ulcerative coitis isnt known.
B. Ulcreative colitis is remitting, whereas Crohns disease is constant.
C.Patints with both conditions benefit equally well from surgery.
D. Crohns disease can be found anywhere in the digestive tract whereas ulcraive colitis is generally found in the colon and rectum.

A: D.

Q: How many people have heard of Krohns Disease or Ulcerative Colitis?
I do a lot of work to bring about awareness of Krohn’s Disease (which I have) and Ulcerative Colitis, so I was wondering how many people really know what it is. If you do, where did you learn about it? If you know someone with either would you be willing to share a story about it with me? Especially if the person is younger, like me and the people I talk to about it…Do you have any questions about it you would like to ask me? Thanks so much!
*Crohn’s, sorry for the mispelling, it was a typo

A: I have known a few people with Crohn’s disease, and with Ulcerative Colitis. There are a couple of groups on Yahoo that can help you meet others with the disease, and can help you with symptoms, medicines, and other issues. I joined a group for IBD and it really helps with food choices, and figuring out what to expect.

Q: What are the differences between Crohns disease and Ulcerative Colitis?
I would really prefer an expert or a personal account and not a google search, Thank You.

A: ulcerative colitis (UC) and crohn’s disease are both inflammatory bowel diseases of which the cause is still unknown. The main difference is the parts they affect. Crohn’s can affect any part of the digestive tract from the mouth to the anus whereas UC only affects the large bowel.

Going into more detail:
Crohn’s has so called skip lesions, where the inflammation extends up the digestive tract but misses sections out and ’skips’ from one part to the next. Whereas UC is continous inflammation of the colon with no skips.
In crohn’s deep ulcers and fissures are seen in the lining of the digestive tract and they have a cobblestone appearance. In UC the lining is red and bleeds and sometimes has ulcers and pseudo polyps.
In crohn’s the iflammation is not confined to the lining but can spread outwards through the tissue of the bowel and granulomata may be present. However in UC only the lining of the bowel is inflammed and no granulomata are present. but goblet cell depletion and crypt abscesses can be found.

Q: Plz recommend doctor and hospital in india for ulcerative colitis disease.?
My bro(22 years old) is suffering with ulcerative colitis for more then a year.I cant find right treatment here in malaysia.Its a rare case in malaysia.His whole colon is involved with ulcerative colitis. He been taking all type of medicine form hospital,but seem no cure.Currently he is taking some herbal medicine n seem getting better. current status,past 2 months he no more suffer frequent fevers, bloody diarrhea, nausea, and severe abdominal cramps.Not sure the healing in his colon.beside using steroids drugs,is there any other treatment for this disease.I was going through a medical talk n the doctor suggest electroscopy treatment.Is is electroscopy treatment will cure this disease. Is there any patient who have ulcerative colilitis have cure without removing the colon. Hope to know more.With humble request,i hope anyone can recommend me a doctor and the contact for the treatment in india.Thank you

regards,
Rajiv.M
Kuala Lumpur,Malaysia.
Email:rajiv_jayson@yahoo.com

A: Dr. K. S.Chugh (Prof. K. S. Chugh)
Works at Inscol hospital in Chandigarh, India
http://www.inscol.com/ is the site
Saved many lives. Traveles all around the world curing people. I believe he will be able to cure your brother.

I hope he gets better and if you need any more information then contact me: adityamahadevan@yahoo.com

Aditya M.

Q: What symptoms do Crohns disease and ulcerative colitis share?

A: Diarrhea (bloody diarrhea is more common in UC but can appear in CD)
Stomach pain & cramps
Fatigue, dehydration and weight loss

Q: What are the symptoms of Chrons disease and Ulcerative Colitis?
Something isnt right with me lately, (this is my symptoms) I have abdominal pain for 1 month now in the same area (lower right side) and pale yellow diarreah that is sometimes once a day to ten times a day…I am constantly tired and in pain.. they ruled out appendicitis, cysts, a hernia, and bowel obstruction….they think i might have one of these disorders listed above, I have a young baby to take care of and I feel like crap, any information would be greatly appreciated thank you!

A: I would look up either Celiac Disease or since you have a baby: Endometriosis. Look those up. They sound like your symptoms. But don’t worry, these are treatable!

Good luck and I hope this helps!

Q: Has anyone tried Dr. Ray Lala’s healing mineral treatment for Crohn’s disease/Ulcerative Colitis?
While I will appreciate other remedies, I am specifically looking for results from the Dr. Lala treatment.

A: hi sm, I am a crohn’s pt. for over 20 yrs. Have you checked out the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation’s site for information?

They have tons of stuff ranging from diet, newer treatments to put pts. in remission faster, locating a local support chapter, as well as a live chat, a hotline, and an open forum where you can post questions to others who have IBD.

If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is. There are so many scams out there which will take our hard earned $$$ by offering false promises of a cure.

When a cure is found for IBD, I am sure it will hit the newpapers first as well as our GIs.

good luck to you.

Q: Do i have Crohn’s Disease or Ulcerative Colitis?
Okay i asked my doctor about this and he thinks i have Crohn’s Disease but on the other hand he thinks i may Ulcerative Colitis. Here are my symptoms..

Go to the bathroom about 4 -5 times a day with blood
Never had any pain
Don’t have fistulate or anything on my skin (rashes, marks)
Lost some weight
was never annemic
My entire colon was inflammed
just a little bit of inflamation on my illieum but not enough to cause anything.
Never had a fever nor vomitted
Never really felt sick

Do these symptoms sound like Crohn’s or Colitis disease? Hope you guys can help!
Well my rectum area is inflammed and i do see a GI specialist. I’m not so sure if he is a good one though because he doesn’t seem to know a lot. I did get a colonscopy and the doctor said it looks like you have UC. But after doing this one test in Cali they determined i have Crohn’s. It’s very strange though because i don’t really feel like i have crohn’s, i mean yeah i go to the bathroom a lot of times but it’s not like i feel terrible. It’s just annoying and the only reason i go to the doctor is because there’s blood. Anyway after the colonscopy i do have relatively mild – moderate inflammation. I’m on remicade right now and had my second infusion one week ago. So far i am going to the bathroom 1 – 2 times a day. There is still a little bit of blood but nothing like before. Do you think this remicade is working on my so far or after two infusions i should be healed by now?

A: hi henry, as a crohn’s survivor I can tell you that Crohn’s can and does affect anywhere in the digestive tract from the mouth, esophagus, small intestines, large intestines, rectum, and anus. A colonoscopy & biopsy plus Prometheus blood work can properly dx what you have.

The Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of America has a website you can go to find the necessary info you are looking for plus they have a live chat & a hotline that is run by healthcare professionals.

Are you on any treatments now such as Remicade, Humira, Entocort, 6MP, or Imuran? You need to be on something for the inflammation.

Some ppl are lucky with their illness as they aren’t in much pain or they are put in remission after being on medication and staying on it.

Good luck to you.

Q: What foods are harsh on you if you’re prone to ulcerative colitis or chrones disease?
Or what foods are beneficial also

Thanks
My friend has to go get checked for it, but it runs in her family so I want to give her some advice, thanks

A: Those are 2 different diseases.

Chrons people can’t eat seeds.

I have UC. I can pretty much eat what I want but I try not to eat alot of bread products or too many things with yeast. If I’m having a flareup, then I stop eating rough food like salads, and raw vegetables.

At my worst, about the only think I can eat is meat.

Q: Chrons Disease Ulcerative colitis IBS.?
I was wondering About Chrons Disease and Ulcerative colitis and IBS. My friend has symptoms that are similar to all of these. Shes been in so much abdominal pain lately. What were your first signs. What happens.When to seek help… I would really like to help her out. Any stories would be appreciated

A: Your friend should really consider going to the doctor. The symptoms of IBS, and all forms of colitis (Crohn’s, collagenous, lymphocytic, etc.) , celiac disease, lactose intolerance, soy intolerance, casein intolerance are all very similar. Tests need to be run to rule out (or in) what her issue is. Please tell your friend that her best option is to see her doctor and then ask for a referral to a gastroenterologist.

Q: What impact does drinking water have on chronic disease such as ulcerative colitis?

A: In a condition with chronic ulcerative colitis that involves chronic diarrhea, the risk of dehydration always exists. If fluid intake does not keep up with diarrhea, kidney function may be affected. Patients with Crohn’s/Ulcerative colitis, and other diarrheal diseases have an increased incidence of kidney stones, which is related to this problem. Furthermore, dehydration and salt loss create a feeling of weakness. For these reasons, people with IBD should consume ample fluids-especially in warm weather when loss of salt and water through the skin may be high. A good rule of thumb is to drink one half ounce per day for every pound of body weight. That means that if you weight 140 pounds, you should drink at least 70 ounces a day — or eight and three-quarters glasses. Sip your beverages, rather than gulp them. By introducing air into the digestive system, gulping can cause discomfort.

Q: Do you or someone you know struggle with the pain of Crohn’s Disease or Ulcerative Colitis?
I was diagnosed 15 years ago, and this year I’m fighting back by riding my bicylce 210 miles in 3 days. To find out more, or to support me on this journey please visit www.ibdride.org/arwyatt

A: hi doc, i am a female crohn’s survivor dxed at the age of 12. Currently going in for outpt. surgery to have a fistula closed with surgical glue and stitches.

I hate this illness and wouldn’t wish it upon anyone. I am a local CCFA volunteer for our chapter but I had a stroke 3 yrs. ago so I can’t do much now.

Anyway, thank you for doing your part to bring attention to this disease. I hope to see a cure before too long.

God Bless You and may you have a successful ride and a long remission!!!

Q: Crohn’s Disease / Ulcerative Colitis information sought.?
I am a 31 year old female, I was diagnosed with Crohn’s or Ulcerative Colitis in May and am currently awaiting a test from Promethius that is supposed to distinguish between the two, I go see my G.I. specialist for the results later this month. Has anyone had this test done? Is there going to be a final answer, or will I need more tests after this? Any helpful info you can offer? I have changed my diet, lost weight and have only had one flare-up since being in the hospital….
I guess I should add that I turned down medications when I was in the hospital. The on-duty GI Specialist wanted to put me on Prednisone and I declined and signed myself out of the hospital and went home. My doctor and my personal GI Specialist both agree that I did the right thing and say my case is mild compared to most. My regular doctor doesn’t even agree with the diagnosis of Crohn’s/UC and thinks I don’t need any medication.
Also to help with nutrition and my arthritis,every day I try to take:
2 Omega 3,6,9 Complete EFA
2 Probiotics by Jarrow Formulas
1 Colostrum by Jarrow Formulas
1 Calcium Magnesium Zinc
2 Glucosamine w/ MSM
2 Wellness Formula by Source Naturals

A: Hey I had UC so I know what your going through. A good website is www.livingwithuc.com. The flare ups are unpredictable and pretty terrible. I stopped taking the medicine because it made it worse. Lately Ive been drinking Kefir probiotic and it has helped (sometimes). I recommend taking the meds, im actually about to see my gastro so I canget back on that.

Q: Symptoms of Crone’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis?
What are the usual syptoms of these illnesses, how similar are they to each other and how can they be treated? Is ‘bowel removal’ always necessary or can it be managed without having to have this drastic operation? I need as much advice as possible please. Thank you in advance.

A: Crohn’s disease is a chronic transmural inflammatory disease that usually affects the distal ileum and colon but may occur in any part of the GI tract. Symptoms include diarrhea and abdominal pain. Abscesses, internal and external fistulas, and bowel obstruction may arise. Extraintestinal symptoms, particularly arthritis, may occur. Diagnosis is by colonoscopy and barium contrast studies. Treatment is with 5-aminosalicylic acid, corticosteroids, immunomodulators, anticytokines, antibiotics, and often surgery.
Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory and ulcerative disease arising in the colonic mucosa, characterized most often by bloody diarrhea. Extraintestinal symptoms, particularly arthritis, may occur. Long-term risk of colon cancer is high. Diagnosis is by colonoscopy. Treatment is with 5-aminosalicylic acid, corticosteroids, immunomodulators, anticytokines, antibiotics, and occasionally surgery.

Q: where can we find best treatment in USA for Colitis or Crohn’s disease?
one of our friend’s son has a Colitis disease and we are looking for a help in USA, where can we find best treatment in USA, please help. thanks

A: Check sites like centerwatch to see what kinds of clinical trials are out there. Usually facilities who perform many clinical trials for specific diseases are the leaders in their field. Good luck.

Q: Any ideas on ways to cheer up my mom who is suffering from Crohn’s Disease (Colitis)?
She can’t eat much, she’s received more than enough flowers, she can’t leave the house, and I don’t live in the same city as her. She’s really down due to being stuck and home for weeks and terribly sick. Ideas??

A: I have Crohn’s and the best present to me was comforting words and prayer. A present that made me laugh was a case of very soft tissue paper and a variety of reading material. (My friend with Crohn’s gave me that)

Q: Do i have Crohn’s Disease or Ulcerative Colitis?
Okay i asked my doctor about this and he thinks i have Crohn’s Disease but on the other hand he thinks i may Ulcerative Colitis. Here are my symptoms..

Go to the bathroom about 4 -5 times a day with blood
Never had any pain
Don’t have fistulate or anything on my skin (rashes, marks)
Lost some weight
was never annemic
My entire colon was inflammed
just a little bit of inflamation on my illieum but not enough to cause anything.
Never had a fever nor vomitted
Never really felt sick

Do these symptoms sound like Crohn’s or Colitis disease? Hope you guys can help!
Well my rectum area is inflammed and i do see a GI specialist. I’m not so sure if he is a good one though because he doesn’t seem to know a lot. I did get a colonscopy and the doctor said it looks like you have UC. But after doing this one test in Cali they determined i have Crohn’s. It’s very strange though because i don’t really feel like i have crohn’s, i mean yeah i go to the bathroom a lot of times but it’s not like i feel terrible. It’s just annoying and the only reason i go to the doctor is because there’s blood. Anyway after the colonscopy i do have relatively mild – moderate inflammation. I’m on remicade right now and had my second infusion one week ago. So far i am going to the bathroom 1 – 2 times a day. There is still a little bit of blood but nothing like before. Do you think this remicade is working on my so far or after two infusions i should be healed by now?

A: hi henry, as a crohn’s survivor I can tell you that Crohn’s can and does affect anywhere in the digestive tract from the mouth, esophagus, small intestines, large intestines, rectum, and anus. A colonoscopy & biopsy plus Prometheus blood work can properly dx what you have.

The Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of America has a website you can go to find the necessary info you are looking for plus they have a live chat & a hotline that is run by healthcare professionals.

Are you on any treatments now such as Remicade, Humira, Entocort, 6MP, or Imuran? You need to be on something for the inflammation.

Some ppl are lucky with their illness as they aren’t in much pain or they are put in remission after being on medication and staying on it.

Good luck to you.

Q: Crohn’s Disease/Colitis – A little upset?
Alright so, my problem is that I might have Colitis or Crohn’s disease. Thursday I woke up with a stomach ache and it kind a little worse over the day but it wasn’t really bad, I’ve had worse. I had a little bit of cramps too. So I got a fever with it around 8:30 and my mom took me to the ER to get a check up, and about 30 – 40 mins being there my stomach ache was virtually gone but my mom wanted me to go through with the CT Scan they originally were going to do. So I did all the stuff they wanted me to do before it, drank some water with some weird stuff in it and got a blood sample and they gave me morphine and IV for some reason. After the morphine I felt like CRAP (Bad dizzyness and woosyness) then about an hour later did the CT Scan, they found out I didn’t have what they thought I did which was a appendicitis, but my doctor said I have a slight inflammation in my intestine which could indicate colitis or Crohn’s disease, then the next day I woke up with a bad stomach ache but I think that might of been from all the crap the hospital gave me because my arm was also in pain from the IV and stuff. I woke up today and felt almost 100% better but now have a little discomfort in my stomach (No pain at all, just feels kinda weird) and have a little diarrhea, but my doctor had prescribed me a stool softener (don’t need to take it now) and also gave me vikidin, which I have no idea why unless he thought my stomach ache was THAT bad but it wasn’t at all. So I’m going to take some medicine tonight (probably some diarrhea type like Pepto bismal) and see if my stomach ache is gone completely tomorrow (It’s been getting ALOT less worse over time)

but basically my question is, what chance is there that I have Crohn’s disease or Colitis? And if it turns out I do is there any severity to it? I’ve been reading about it and said it’s not that bad of a disease, and it’s possible to have remissions(periods of time you have very little or no symptoms at all) for months/years at a time, and the worse thing you would experience is a bad flare-up, so if I do have it is there any real thing to fear? (I don’t mean like death or anything) Just like severe pains or anything? I’m kind of shakey at the moment and I know I shouldn’t since my doctor doesn’t know for sure, but how hard is it to deal with this disease with your life?

I’m going back for a check-up maybe around Monday. And I turned 17 Dec 8 if that helps.
My doctor didn’t say specific Colitis or Crohn’s disease, he thought I had appendicitis at first, but took the CT Scan and said I was perfectly fine (everything with me was including my blood and all that) the only thing was I had slight inflammation in my intestines, no blocking or anything. And he said it could indicate either colitis or crohn’s. And I’m going back for a check-up soon and I’m going to ask my mom to tell them to get those specific tests done for me to check if I do, and I don’t have to worry about my weight for now, and I’ve been eating alot lately (nothing has upsetted my stomach so far) Just to make sure. And no, I don’t have a bad pain in my stomach, as I said just a little discomfort like stomach ache feeling, but I think that’s caused from the Diarrhea since I usually get a stomach ache when I have it.
And about the pain meds, yeahhh. My mom was really shocked when she saw the prescription, she doesn’t even want to give me the medicine (I’m not gonna take it) she said she’ll only give it to me if my stomach ache gets excrusiatingly bad, but if it gets bad enough to where I need vikidin I think I’d rather go the ER instead.

A: hi xx, I am a crohn’s survivor for many yrs. dxed at age 12.

If you check out the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation’s site, they have all of the accurate information you are looking for such as treatment, diet, surgery, coping, as well as locating a local support chapter near you as well as a hotline, live chat, and an open forum where you can post questions to others who have IBD (crohn’s or UC).

If you are in pain, you are entitled to be made comfortable until things are under control.

Definitely check out the site. It’s worth it!!

Q: When comparing Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, which of the following is TRUE?
A. the cause of Crohn’s disease is known, whereas the cause of ulcerative coitis isnt known.
B. Ulcreative colitis is remitting, whereas Crohns disease is constant.
C.Patints with both conditions benefit equally well from surgery.
D. Crohns disease can be found anywhere in the digestive tract whereas ulcraive colitis is generally found in the colon and rectum.

A: D.

Q: What is the difference between Crohn’s disease and Ulceretive colitis?
How to recognize Crohn’s disease and Ulcerative colitis right away?
I appreciate your help.

A: It is very difficult to distinguish between CD and UC based on clinical inspection alone, as both are inflammatory processes that may cause diarrhea and bleeding. However, CD causes involvement of any part of the GI tract, from mouth to anus, and thus manifestations of the esophagus, stomach (i.e. upper GI bleed present as black stool), small intestine (malabsorption), or mouth (such as oral aphthous ulcers) are good clues that you may be dealing with CD rather than UC. In contrast, UC is limited to the colon and thus will not cause the extracolonic effects I mentioned.

Patient information may also help, as CD is seen in younger people (with high prevalence in Jewish people), while UC is most commonly seen in older people.

Otherwise, definitive diagnosis is based on endoscopic and histological evidence of specific etiology.

Q: Any pregnant ladies out there with Crohn’s Disease or colitis?
And just wondering how you are doing during your pregnancy?

I had a major flare during my first pregnancy, and minor symptoms during my second. I went into remission for almost two years and have been having problems again during this pregnancy, but I think it’s more due to pregnancy than the illness.

Were any of you flaring during delivery and did you have a vaginal or opt for a c-section?

A: Hi. I have mild crohn’s disease and I flared up a little with my first pregnancy and this one. I strongly believe it has to do more with the pregnancy…maybe the hormones because it happens much more when I am pregnant as opposed to when I’m not. I haven’t had our 2nd yet and I flared up a little during delivery with our first. I would never get a c-section unless I had to so I had our son vaginally. Good luck

Q: Crohn’s Disease, Ulcerative Colitis, calorie intake?
I have Crohn’s disease, and am in a severe flare-up. I’m one of the weird people who have gained weight while having Crohn’s disease, despite the malnutrition, and awful damage to my intestines. Perhaps it’s from the medications I’ve taken.

I’ve recently started the Specific Carbohydrate Diet for IBDs, in hopes it will help me, and I’ve noticed that I’m not getting very many calories, normally only 1400 at the most. As someone with Crohn’s, should I be eating more calories than that? I’d like to lose some of the weight I’ve gained since having Crohn’s, but my health is my first priority. I’d rather be a little heavy and healthy, than thin and even sicker than I already am.

A: Health is of course the first priority. If you’re a growing teenager, you ought eat more than 1400 calories – but if you’re finished growing, 1400 won’t kill you. However, it is rather meager. The simplest thing to do would be to eat more, but exercise to match.

I know it’s difficult to exercise with the lack of energy that Crohn’s and UC bring, but if you’re worried about putting on weight, it’s a decent way to combat that. You could also try asking your doctor about other meds that might not cause this problem.

Q: Crohn’s Disease / Ulcerative Colitis information sought.?
I am a 31 year old female, I was diagnosed with Crohn’s or Ulcerative Colitis in May and am currently awaiting a test from Promethius that is supposed to distinguish between the two, I go see my G.I. specialist for the results later this month. Has anyone had this test done? Is there going to be a final answer, or will I need more tests after this? Any helpful info you can offer? I have changed my diet, lost weight and have only had one flare-up since being in the hospital….
I guess I should add that I turned down medications when I was in the hospital. The on-duty GI Specialist wanted to put me on Prednisone and I declined and signed myself out of the hospital and went home. My doctor and my personal GI Specialist both agree that I did the right thing and say my case is mild compared to most. My regular doctor doesn’t even agree with the diagnosis of Crohn’s/UC and thinks I don’t need any medication.
Also to help with nutrition and my arthritis,every day I try to take:
2 Omega 3,6,9 Complete EFA
2 Probiotics by Jarrow Formulas
1 Colostrum by Jarrow Formulas
1 Calcium Magnesium Zinc
2 Glucosamine w/ MSM
2 Wellness Formula by Source Naturals

A: Hey I had UC so I know what your going through. A good website is www.livingwithuc.com. The flare ups are unpredictable and pretty terrible. I stopped taking the medicine because it made it worse. Lately Ive been drinking Kefir probiotic and it has helped (sometimes). I recommend taking the meds, im actually about to see my gastro so I canget back on that.

Q: Do you or someone you know struggle with the pain of Crohn’s Disease or Ulcerative Colitis?
I was diagnosed 15 years ago, and this year I’m fighting back by riding my bicylce 210 miles in 3 days. To find out more, or to support me on this journey please visit www.ibdride.org/arwyatt

A: hi doc, i am a female crohn’s survivor dxed at the age of 12. Currently going in for outpt. surgery to have a fistula closed with surgical glue and stitches.

I hate this illness and wouldn’t wish it upon anyone. I am a local CCFA volunteer for our chapter but I had a stroke 3 yrs. ago so I can’t do much now.

Anyway, thank you for doing your part to bring attention to this disease. I hope to see a cure before too long.

God Bless You and may you have a successful ride and a long remission!!!

Q: Can clinical tests effectively distinguish between colitis and Crohn’s Disease?
Hello,
I had a colonoscopy done a week ago due to some severe abdominal pain and was subsequently put on Asacol. I got the biopsy results back today, and I either have infectious colitis or Crohn’s Disease. Based on my research, it is difficult to conclusively distinguish between colitis and Crohn’s. If I have infectious colitis, will I be on medication indefinitely? Or, is there anyone out there who knows what some distinguishing factors between the two might be? I am aware of the CCFA, but I would like some advice from people who are actually experiencing colitis/Crohn’s.

A: Crohn’s disease can effect anywhere from your throat to your rectum. Colitis only effects your colon. Your doctor should be able to tell which it is by a test or two.(Not quite sure which ones though it’s been awhile) You can always call and ask them though.

Q: Does anyone have Crohn’s Disease or Ulcerative Colitis?
I found this video on Youtube. It’s about The Exposition about Mycobacterium Avium Subespecies Paratuberculosis (MAP) and how it causes Crohn’s disease by professor John Hermon Taylor.

I honestly think we have something here and hopefully the first step toward a cure.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5pYuf5rnnQo

A: If you ask me, it seems like there are different “types” of Crohn’s and colitis…but more so Crohn’s. So a cure would be awesome, but it seems like there would need to be a few cures for the different “types” of disease. I say this basically since some meds work so well for one person, but don’t do a thing for another. And how some people suffer more w/ fistulas for example, but another Crohn’s patient might never have one fistula at all. A lot of GI docs right now seem to say there isn’t enough evidence to support MAP, but if you ask me, it sure seems like it plays a role in Crohn’s disease. At least for some people. One thing that’s interesting to think about….if MAP does play a role, it’s interesting how immune suppressants help so many people, and don’t make the disease worse. You would think that if a bacteria like MAP plays a huge role in the disease, suppressing the immune system would let it grow more and lead to worsening disease.

Q: do you have ulcerative colitis/crohn’s disease?
I was in the hospital Thanksgiving 2005 and they were going to take my colon out. I had been hopitalized 4 times in less than 2 years and I couldn’t function. I literally crapped in my pants without knowing it. I was in so much pain they were dripping some really fantastic pain med into me– I was afraid I’d be an addict by the time I left the hospital.

I said “no”. My doctor got mad, kicked me out of the hospital. I started taking some SHAKLEE probiotics, detoxed on alfalfa and about 20 other bottles of stuff. Started getting better, then went to a doctor an hour and a half away from where I lived and started taking NAET treatments. The first time I had a flare-up I was scared to death I would end up in the hospital again. My new doctor told me to come down and I’d be fine. He did a treatment and it was gone within a few hours. Please– don’t let any doctor tell you that you have to take meds the rest of your life and you’ll never get better. It’s a lie.

http://www.naet.com
When I get real stressed I will have flare-ups, but he can take care of it. I can also eat anything I want to. Things that used to tear my stomach up.

A: THinking4U!

Good for you on the decision making. Take control and decide for yourself where your health will go. That is power and you used it! Take some more initiative and heal your issue for good. Learn about juice fasting and cleansing of the colon and liver.

“The body knows how to heal itself you just have to assist it”.

Here are a few other tips to follow.

Here is some info and remedies to help with your condition.

Causes
Crohn’s disease can be caused by a variety of factors, including poor diet and nutrition, food allergies, imbalanced levels of hydrochloric acid, impaired immunity, infections, lack of exercise, “leaky gut” syndrome, pharmaceutical drugs, and stress.

Note:
Pharmaceutical Drugs: The following drugs can all cause and exacerbate various gastrointestinal disorders, including Crohn’s disease: Accutane, Alka-Seltzer Antacid and Alka-Seltzer Pain Reliever, Anturane, Genuine Bayer Aspirin, Bayer Plus Aspirin, Bayer Regular Strength Enteric Aspirin, Bufferin Analgesic Tablets and Caplets, Ceptaz, Clinoril, Cuprimine, Ecotrin Enteric Coated Aspirin, Feldene, Ilosone, Lamprene, Leukine for IV Infusion, Lopid, Marplan, Meclomen, Novantrone, Paraplatin, Piroxicam, Prokine I.V. Infusion, Retrovir, Rynatuss, Supprelin Injection, Suprax, Ticlid, Tolectin, Toradol IM Injection, Trecator-SC, Trilisate, and Voltaren.

Quick Action Plan for Crohn’s Disease

1. Diet is of primary importance. Avoid all sugars, refined flour products, and carbohydrates, milk and dairy products, processed foods that contain preservatives and artificial sweeteners, alcohol, hydrogenated and trans-fatty oils, as well as foods that are common allergens.

2. Emphasize organic, fresh vegetables and non-citrus fruits, organic grains, as well as organic, free-range meats and poultry and wild-caught fish.

3. Drink plenty of pure, filtered water throughout the day. Gallon a day if you can.

4. Enema containing butyric acid two to five times a week. (Add one tablespoon of butyric acid to one quart of warm water.) Do a Colon Cleanse to clean out the toxins in the body. A liver cleanse will help new blood penetrate the sick areas and help the healing process.

5. Supplements with vitamin A, beta carotene, vitamin C, calcium, magnesium, potassium, and zinc, taken with a multivitamin/multimineral formula. Essential fatty acids, especial omega-3 oils, are also recommended.

6. Stress reduction through the use of various mind/body medicine techniques, such as biofeedback, hypnotherapy, meditation and relaxation exercises.

7. If you smoke, stop and if you are currently taking aspirin or other NSAIDs, consider replacing them with safer, more effective natural remedies.

8. Soothing baths two to five nights and alternating hot and cold water packs placed over the stomach and upper abdomen.

9. Juice remedies include aloe juice; wheatgrass juice; cabbage, papaya, and carrot juice; and carrot, beet, and cucumber juice.

10. Juice of half a lemon with warm water, especially in the morning.

11. Allow yourself to receive emotional support to help you embrace some of the common underlying issues identified with Crohn’s, such as abandonment, anger, disappointment and rage, which often settle in the gut. Seek out a therapist or other skilled practitioner that can guide you through emotional healing work.

Best of health to you

Q: what’s the different between ulcerative colitis and crohn’s disease?

A: Hi, this website compares the two

http://www.crohns.org.uk/

Just click on Ulcerative Colitis then click on Differences between CD and UC

If you have any other questions about Crohn’s then get in touch as i have suffered since 2004.

Q: please give me comparisson between crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.?

A: The most common disease that mimics the symptoms of ulcerative colitis is Crohn’s disease, as both are inflammatory bowel diseases( IBD) that can affect the colon with similar symptoms. It is important to differentiate these diseases, since the course of the diseases and treatments may be different. In some cases, however, it may not be possible to tell the difference, in which case the disease is classified as indeterminate colitis.

The most common symptom among the 2 are abdominal pains and bloody diarrhea. The swelling and inflammation of the intestinal lining causes pain and frequent emptying; resulting in diarrhea. Another symptom is rectal bleeding.

Crohn’s disease can affect any area of the GI tract, from the mouth to the anus, but it most commonly affects the lower part of the small intestine, called the ileum. In ulcerative colitis; there is inflammation as well as ulcers in the large colon.

The abdominal pains in Crohn’s Disease is located on the RLQ while the Ulcerative Colitis is on the LLQ.

Comparisons of various factors in Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis

Involves terminal ileum? Crohn’s -Commonly Ulcerative- Seldom

Involves colon? Crohn’s -Usually
Ulcerative- Always

Involves rectum? Crohn’s -Seldom
Ulcerative- Usually

Peri-anal involvement?
Crohn’s – Commonly
Ulcerative- seldom

Bile duct involvement? Crohn’s -Not associated Ulcerative- Higher rate of Primary sclerosing cholangitis

Distribution of Disease Crohn’s – Patchy areas of inflammation Ulcerative- -Continuous area of inflammation

Endoscopy Crohn’s – Linear and serpiginous (snake-like) ulcers
Ulcerative- Continuous ulcer

Depth of inflammation Crohn’s – May be transmural, deep into tissues
Ulcerative- Shallow, mucosal

Fistulae, abnormal passageways between organs Crohn’s -Commonly
Ulcerative- Seldom

Biopsy Crohn’s- Can have granulomata

Surgical cure? Crohn’s -Often returns following removal of affected part Ulcerative- Usually cured by removal of colon

Smoking Crohn’s-Higher risk for smokers Ulcerative- Lower risk for smokers

Autoimmune disease? Crohn’s -Generally regarded as an autoimmune disease
Ulcerative- No consensus

Cancer risk? Crohn’s Lower than ulcerative colitis
Ulcerative- Higher than Crohn’s

Q: In Feb I had a colonoscopy. I was told that I have inflammatory bowel disease, colitis.?
I was told that I have inflammatory bowel disease, colitis. It is in the lower part of my large intenstine. At last I found out what has been giving me bad pains in the lower part of my pelvis. Had it for a few years and was always told it was “womens” problems! Back in Feb after losing a lot of blood the doctor here in France sent me to a specialist. She did the colonoscopy and took a biopsy, glad I was out cold. Anyhow, I was put on steroids for 6 months, just finished them. Pentasa, suppositories. Just getting pain back in lower pelvis!! is there anything I can do to stop it flaring up, ie diet? Hard to talk to consultant as her English is limited as is my French. I also put on weight with the steriods and they made me feel yuk, but they did take the pain away. Don’t want to go back on them but can’t find any positive information on searching the net. Any positive help would be appreciated. Thank you.

A: My mum has UC and has had for over 30 years. Steriods generally only used during ongoing attack, the trick is to prevent or lessen attacks. You need to work out how to do this, ie what causes you pain. My mum can’t eat anything fibrous – fruit, veg (esp tomatoes), steaks, brown bread, potato jackets, spicy food, alcohol. You have to kinda work it out for yourself – keep a food diary. She mainly sticks with chicken, pork and pasta. I could tell you so much more but there is so little space here and I don’t want to leave a massive answer. So my mums best advice is: Visit the website below. My mum did and is a member of NACC, she has found them a great source of help as all the members have either Crohns or UC. Lots of info in their newsletters.

The more you learn about your illness and how it affects YOU the better you can control it and the better your long term outcome. My mum has extensive large bowel ulceration and has managed to avoid hospitalisation for the last 20 years and has never been under the surgeons knife.

All the very best to you.

Q: Crohn’s Disease/Colitis – A little upset?
Alright so, my problem is that I might have Colitis or Crohn’s disease. Thursday I woke up with a stomach ache and it kind a little worse over the day but it wasn’t really bad, I’ve had worse. I had a little bit of cramps too. So I got a fever with it around 8:30 and my mom took me to the ER to get a check up, and about 30 – 40 mins being there my stomach ache was virtually gone but my mom wanted me to go through with the CT Scan they originally were going to do. So I did all the stuff they wanted me to do before it, drank some water with some weird stuff in it and got a blood sample and they gave me morphine and IV for some reason. After the morphine I felt like CRAP (Bad dizzyness and woosyness) then about an hour later did the CT Scan, they found out I didn’t have what they thought I did which was a appendicitis, but my doctor said I have a slight inflammation in my intestine which could indicate colitis or Crohn’s disease, then the next day I woke up with a bad stomach ache but I think that might of been from all the crap the hospital gave me because my arm was also in pain from the IV and stuff. I woke up today and felt almost 100% better but now have a little discomfort in my stomach (No pain at all, just feels kinda weird) and have a little diarrhea, but my doctor had prescribed me a stool softener (don’t need to take it now) and also gave me vikidin, which I have no idea why unless he thought my stomach ache was THAT bad but it wasn’t at all. So I’m going to take some medicine tonight (probably some diarrhea type like Pepto bismal) and see if my stomach ache is gone completely tomorrow (It’s been getting ALOT less worse over time)

but basically my question is, what chance is there that I have Crohn’s disease or Colitis? And if it turns out I do is there any severity to it? I’ve been reading about it and said it’s not that bad of a disease, and it’s possible to have remissions(periods of time you have very little or no symptoms at all) for months/years at a time, and the worse thing you would experience is a bad flare-up, so if I do have it is there any real thing to fear? (I don’t mean like death or anything) Just like severe pains or anything? I’m kind of shakey at the moment and I know I shouldn’t since my doctor doesn’t know for sure, but how hard is it to deal with this disease with your life?

I’m going back for a check-up maybe around Monday. And I turned 17 Dec 8 if that helps.
My doctor didn’t say specific Colitis or Crohn’s disease, he thought I had appendicitis at first, but took the CT Scan and said I was perfectly fine (everything with me was including my blood and all that) the only thing was I had slight inflammation in my intestines, no blocking or anything. And he said it could indicate either colitis or crohn’s. And I’m going back for a check-up soon and I’m going to ask my mom to tell them to get those specific tests done for me to check if I do, and I don’t have to worry about my weight for now, and I’ve been eating alot lately (nothing has upsetted my stomach so far) Just to make sure. And no, I don’t have a bad pain in my stomach, as I said just a little discomfort like stomach ache feeling, but I think that’s caused from the Diarrhea since I usually get a stomach ache when I have it.
And about the pain meds, yeahhh. My mom was really shocked when she saw the prescription, she doesn’t even want to give me the medicine (I’m not gonna take it) she said she’ll only give it to me if my stomach ache gets excrusiatingly bad, but if it gets bad enough to where I need vikidin I think I’d rather go the ER instead.

A: hi xx, I am a crohn’s survivor for many yrs. dxed at age 12.

If you check out the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation’s site, they have all of the accurate information you are looking for such as treatment, diet, surgery, coping, as well as locating a local support chapter near you as well as a hotline, live chat, and an open forum where you can post questions to others who have IBD (crohn’s or UC).

If you are in pain, you are entitled to be made comfortable until things are under control.

Definitely check out the site. It’s worth it!!

Q: Is it Gall Bladder disease? Colitis? Or an Ulcer?
I went to the dr’s yesterday for constant diarrhea, like 3 or 4 times a week.Constant pain in my left side and back and sometimes in the center of my stomach by my breast bone. He seems to think it is one of these 3 things and wants me to have a ultrasound… Which I have scheduled for Sept 8th. I don’t go back to him until Sept 29th for my follow up unless something shows up on the ultrasound.In the meantime he gave me Zantac 300 to take twice a day… I would like to know what I am dealing with here. I am a lot scared and would like some advice … Please help!

A: Hi,
My husband has had Crohn’s/Ulcerative Colitis for 20 years now (they go back and forth on the diagnosis, currently, they’re calling it Colitis). Recently, he has developed severe nausea and vomiting, and had a scope test and colonoscopy to see what was going on. They said he was in a flare-up of colitis but did not think the nausea and vomiting were related (they did rule out ulcers), so they ordered tests specific to the gall bladder. He had an ultra sound and a follow up nuclear test (radioactive dye and scan) and has been diagnosed with a low-functioning gall bladder. He did not have the common gall bladder pain but the doctor knew what to look for. He will be having surgery in the next 2 weeks to have it removed. I would recommend having the ultrasound and any follow up tests (radioactive dye tests possibly) to rule out the gall bladder. If it is the gall bladder, it is such a simple operation these days – orthoscopic, and is out-patient surgery. Your story makes me wonder if after the gall bladder

Q: Sick from 2006 till present .Colitis ,mineures Disease , Hyper Hydrosis , can they all be related?
Medical History , Looking for the Relation of my symptoms and maybe some insight into them. I am at the end of my rope and doctors dont seem to care.

I am a 23 year old male . I was born with Cerebral Palsy and premature . The CP effects me by way of minor motor skill impairment and effects my left side more which makes me walk pidgin toed etc. It is spastic cerebral palsy which makes my muscles more tense then usual.

I also have asthsma which was bad but barely comes and goes in the recent 5 years of my life.

I was on paxil from 05-06.

Feb 2006 About three months after stopping . I woke up one morning to being almost deaf in my left ear vomiting and having severe nausea. The docotor diagnosed me with Mineures disease and started me on prednesone for one week and did tympanic steroid injections which brought back most of my hearing in my left ear but i have constant tinnitus which flares up and fades since then till now .

I then developed constant sweating under my arms they labeled hyperhydrosis . Previous to this i never even had to use antiperspirant because i was not a sweaty person.

I then developed Colitis in December 2006 . I Battled with constant diarrhea and constant watery stool . I had severe weight loss and mal nutrition . I went from well built 185 pounds to about 150 pounds and looked like somone who was on chemo therepy . The doctors said they thought i had a yeast infection in my bowels so i started on a yeast cleanser . About a year later after taking probiotics daily a strong multi vitamin and eating very healthy .The Symptoms stopped

Now within the last week. All the symtoms are back . They did a wheat gluten test . I am not allergic. They found my white blood cell to be high .

I started on cipro floxin 2x a day for 10 days.
Flagyl 250 mg 3x a day for 10 days
Benyl 2 x a day for ten days.

The medication seems to be working but .

I have acne on my face and some on my body which i am the kind of person to have a pimple here n there randomly but nothing serious.

I have become very pale and EXHAUSTED! I am sleeping 12-13 hours a day between work n school and at night and I look like when i had insomnia. My eyes are black underneeth and all iwant to do is crawl in bed.

I was wondering . if any of these symptoms could be the effect of another disease that could tie them all together .

It just seems to me that they all seem to go off at once .
I was fine for a year leading a normal life with only my ear ringing still quietly etc.

Now i have a roar in my ear , Upset stomach , Im restless etc

Can anyone help me , or think of what i can do to get an answer?

Saw a ENT who diagnosed me with

A: Wow, I really feel for you. I’m not a doctor, but I read a lot of medical stuff and I wonder about the Paxil. Symptoms of each of the issues you present with can be found with Paxil use or withdrawal. Did you have a physician supervise stopping your use of Paxil? Not extremely common side effects for most of them, but you can check out the Paxil info: http://www.rxlist.com/cgi/generic/parox_ad.htm (This is the same info you can find at the GlaxoSmithKline website, you can download a pdf there.)

The other sort of connection I see is that it’s possible they all may have some sort of neurological link. Your CP is most likely from brain injury due to being premature — or CP can actually happen in utero and issues before birth may be the cause for prematurity. (My teen son was born at 23 weeks, and I’ve done a lot of research on prematurity.) CP can show up in all parts of your body (even affecting eating, digestion, etc), so I wonder if somehow there is some sort of connection. It is not uncommon for preemies to have issues show up as adults. Two you should watch for are high blood pressure and mental health issues. These are most common in the earliest preemies but possibly can happen in preemies who have issues like CP.

I’ve decided it’s better to know all this stuff even though I don’t like hearing it – because I can act on it. I know I need to keep a watch on my son’s bp more than I would if he weren’t premature and also his mental health and make sure he’s not having too much stress in school, etc. Better to be aware.

Did the doctor check your pituitary gland?

It seems like you need to see another doctor, maybe at a big health center where they can easily send you to a doctor in a different department if necessary. I don’t usually like teaching hospitals, but you might find help at one. Think UCLA or a similar facility in your area.

There are different types of the issues you mention, Colitis, Meniere’s, and Hyperhidrosis, it may be important to know which types you have to know how they may be connected.

I would also suggest looking on the internet for support groups for each of these issues and see if you can find anyone who is going through what you are. Please be careful of the scam cures and misinformation you’ll find online.

Can you work on controlling your stress levels? It appears all of those issues may be affected by stress. Walking is a great stress reliever, and you might want to try meditation, yoga or anything else that would work to release your stress.

Take care and good luck in finding the answer.

Q: Ulcerative Colitis (chrons disease)?
I got really sick (hot flashes, fatigue and vomiting, also almost passed out, and was sweating out of control, as well as diareah) Im 19 and this is what my doc said i have. said i have a infection in my colon and small intestance… Also said it looks like it could be as bad as CHRONS. So he scheduled me for a colonoscopy.

I dont know anything about this disease..can you help me? is it really bad? does it go away? is it from diet or stress?

A: hi kimi, I am a crohn’s pt. for 28 yrs. The accurate information is on the crohn’s and colitis foundation site. It explains what it is, what it isn’t, the symptoms, tests to dx it, latest meds to treat it, etc.

There is also a live chat & hotline run by healthcare experts as well as an open forum where pts. and family members can post questions to others.

Surgery is always a last resort until all other avenues fail . Then a total colectomy (removal of entire colon) and permanent ileostomy(bag attached to the abdomen is given). I’ve had one for 23 yrs. and nobody knows I have it unless I tell them. It is NOT a cure but does improve my life as I no longer live in the bathroom.

Crohn’s affects anywhere from the mouth, esophagus, stomach, small intestines, large intestines, anus, and rectum. Ulcerative Colitis affects the large colon, rectum, and anus, only. They only way to determine which one is via a scope and blood work.

They have been making remarkable strides into what causes CD. CCFA has that info on its site that they have identified some genes that have the crohn’s marker. CD can be very painful and cause severe abdominal pain, fatigue, stomach spasms, as well as joint pain, eye trouble, skin trouble, etc. (more info on ccfa site).

CCFA has educational and support chapters throughout the USA. Definitely look into the site and see if there is a chapter near you.

Feel free to email me if you have questions. Folks with CD can lead a normal life provided they take their meds, don’t smoke, don’t drink, eat healthy when in remission, and exercise.

I am living proof of that and I know what I am talking about. I have lived with it since I was a kid. I’ve been in your shoes. My heart goes out to you. good luck.

Q: Why isnt Crohns and Colitis under diseases and conditions?
As these are chronic diseases I cant understand why this is not under the above. Not only myself but there is a great number of people that suffer with this, and being able to look up to see what people are asking and answering would be a great help, and also make people aware this disease is an awful thing to have and cope with.

A: You can make suggestions for additions to the categories by going to the Forum:

http://suggestions.yahoo.com/?prop=answers

Hopefully one of the staff members could answer your question.

I’ve had ulcerative colitis but have been in remission from it for almost 15 years. I used to have medication for it but no longer find it is necessary. I don’t know if this is considered a spontaneous cure or not, but I didn’t do anything special at all. It just stopped. But I certainly remember all the hospital and doctor visits (regular sigmoidoscopy). I just have a regular doctors visit every year and a scheduled colonscopy to make sure everything is clear.

Q: What foods are harsh on you if you’re prone to ulcerative colitis or chrones disease?
Or what foods are beneficial also

Thanks
My friend has to go get checked for it, but it runs in her family so I want to give her some advice, thanks

A: Those are 2 different diseases.

Chrons people can’t eat seeds.

I have UC. I can pretty much eat what I want but I try not to eat alot of bread products or too many things with yeast. If I’m having a flareup, then I stop eating rough food like salads, and raw vegetables.

At my worst, about the only think I can eat is meat.

Q: What is the difference between Crohn’s disease and Ulceretive colitis?
How to recognize Crohn’s disease and Ulcerative colitis right away?
I appreciate your help.

A: It is very difficult to distinguish between CD and UC based on clinical inspection alone, as both are inflammatory processes that may cause diarrhea and bleeding. However, CD causes involvement of any part of the GI tract, from mouth to anus, and thus manifestations of the esophagus, stomach (i.e. upper GI bleed present as black stool), small intestine (malabsorption), or mouth (such as oral aphthous ulcers) are good clues that you may be dealing with CD rather than UC. In contrast, UC is limited to the colon and thus will not cause the extracolonic effects I mentioned.

Patient information may also help, as CD is seen in younger people (with high prevalence in Jewish people), while UC is most commonly seen in older people.

Otherwise, definitive diagnosis is based on endoscopic and histological evidence of specific etiology.

Q: How many people have heard of Krohns Disease or Ulcerative Colitis?
I do a lot of work to bring about awareness of Krohn’s Disease (which I have) and Ulcerative Colitis, so I was wondering how many people really know what it is. If you do, where did you learn about it? If you know someone with either would you be willing to share a story about it with me? Especially if the person is younger, like me and the people I talk to about it…Do you have any questions about it you would like to ask me? Thanks so much!
*Crohn’s, sorry for the mispelling, it was a typo

A: I have known a few people with Crohn’s disease, and with Ulcerative Colitis. There are a couple of groups on Yahoo that can help you meet others with the disease, and can help you with symptoms, medicines, and other issues. I joined a group for IBD and it really helps with food choices, and figuring out what to expect.

Q: Crohns disease and Colitis…questions please help…?
One of my younger brothers was diagnosed with Crohns disease a few years ago at the age of 20…he is now 24 and has not gotten it under control, he is not worried and refuses to change his lifestyle to adapt to his disease…he still smokes/drinks and eats junk….which has only added to the problem…my parents have told him that his lifestyle teamed with his disease will eventually kill him…
Now my other (much) younger brother has been diagnosed with Colitis and possibly Crohns…he is only 12. My mother has done EVERYTHING in her power to help him…shes taken him to Dr after Dr…specialists, Gastroenterologists, Homeopathic Drs, Healers, and hospital after hospital…hes had several very invasive and painful testing done…he is now on steroids and a plethera of pills…and he is very depressed…he is missing school, falling behind and missing out on life because he has to be in the restroom constantly and is actually afraid to eat…my family is so worried about him…he remembers my parents telling my other brother that he may die an early death because of it and there is no cure….so now the 12 year old is worried…he has been told that he has to take meds for the rest of his life…what can we do, is there anything that can save him from a life of taking drugs, being in pain and keep him from worrying? What are the side effect of taking them forever? Is there really no hope for a cure? Please, if you know anything about these diseases and have any ideas of what we can do or where to go from here..your help would be appreciated immensly!

A: ok, i thnk ive been diagnosed wit a small case a ulcerative(sp) colitis, when i was the same age, 12, im 19 now and my case has dwindled, thank god, i had 2 colonoscopy(sp)…and my mother was veryyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy worried so she took me overseas where my mother is from (bolivia) and she took me to a doc. and sometimes here they overlook some causes, but when i was overseas, parasites, was part of illness that caused my colitis. i took like 2-4 different pills and enemas(sp) and i was just tired of it and didnt take anythin and told my mom i did take my pills when i really wasnt, but my colitis is on and off and sometimes really bad and sometimes i dont have any side effect for months or even yrs. but yes ur diet has has has has to change. send me an email if u have more questions

Q: Has anyone ever been tested for Celiac disease, what is it, and what kind of tests are given to detect it?
Can Celiac disease be mistaken for inflammatory bowel disease or Colitis when it is really Celiac disease and not either of these ?

A: These days a blood test can tell whether a person has celiac or not, although its not infallible. You have to have been eating gluten containing items for at least several weeks before taking this test.

Celiac affects the small intestine, while I believe the other two affect the large intestine.
I was diagnosed with it in ‘ 85 with an x-ray of the small (upper) intestine after drinking a barium milkshake. This showed that they were a real mess. A week later they took a biopsy scraping by sending an instrument down my throat, through the stomach and into the UI.

When you have Celiac, you lack the enzyme that breaks down gluten in foods. The gluten then destroys the cilia, or intestinal nutrient-gathering hairs in the UI. So instead of having a ’shag carpet’ in there to make use of the nutrients in food, you end up with ‘linoleum’, which gathers nothing. Your body begins to starve for lack of nutrition.

Sorry, I don’t know how they go about diagnosing the other things you’ve mentioned.

Good Luck. I sincerely hope you find a solution to whatever the problem is.

Q: What are the symptoms of Chrons disease and Ulcerative Colitis?
Something isnt right with me lately, (this is my symptoms) I have abdominal pain for 1 month now in the same area (lower right side) and pale yellow diarreah that is sometimes once a day to ten times a day…I am constantly tired and in pain.. they ruled out appendicitis, cysts, a hernia, and bowel obstruction….they think i might have one of these disorders listed above, I have a young baby to take care of and I feel like crap, any information would be greatly appreciated thank you!

A: I would look up either Celiac Disease or since you have a baby: Endometriosis. Look those up. They sound like your symptoms. But don’t worry, these are treatable!

Good luck and I hope this helps!

Q: What are the differences between Crohns disease and Ulcerative Colitis?
I would really prefer an expert or a personal account and not a google search, Thank You.

A: ulcerative colitis (UC) and crohn’s disease are both inflammatory bowel diseases of which the cause is still unknown. The main difference is the parts they affect. Crohn’s can affect any part of the digestive tract from the mouth to the anus whereas UC only affects the large bowel.

Going into more detail:
Crohn’s has so called skip lesions, where the inflammation extends up the digestive tract but misses sections out and ’skips’ from one part to the next. Whereas UC is continous inflammation of the colon with no skips.
In crohn’s deep ulcers and fissures are seen in the lining of the digestive tract and they have a cobblestone appearance. In UC the lining is red and bleeds and sometimes has ulcers and pseudo polyps.
In crohn’s the iflammation is not confined to the lining but can spread outwards through the tissue of the bowel and granulomata may be present. However in UC only the lining of the bowel is inflammed and no granulomata are present. but goblet cell depletion and crypt abscesses can be found.

Q: Chrons Disease Ulcerative colitis IBS.?
I was wondering About Chrons Disease and Ulcerative colitis and IBS. My friend has symptoms that are similar to all of these. Shes been in so much abdominal pain lately. What were your first signs. What happens.When to seek help… I would really like to help her out. Any stories would be appreciated

A: Your friend should really consider going to the doctor. The symptoms of IBS, and all forms of colitis (Crohn’s, collagenous, lymphocytic, etc.) , celiac disease, lactose intolerance, soy intolerance, casein intolerance are all very similar. Tests need to be run to rule out (or in) what her issue is. Please tell your friend that her best option is to see her doctor and then ask for a referral to a gastroenterologist.

Q: Has anyone gotten Crohns Disease or Colitis after taking Accutane?
This is very important! So a couple of years ago my sister took Accutane, and after taking it she got Ulcerative Colitis; my family and I are trying to make the company out of business, because Accutane almost killed my sister. We don’t want doctors to recommend it because we don’t want others to go through what my sister did. Due to the Accutane, my sister has no colon and has an Illieo ostomy. The only way we can get the company out of business is if we get information from other people who went through similar things because of it so we can make our case.

A: theres nothing you can really do, it is listed as on of the rare but potentrial adverse effects so they have technically relinquished their responsibility,

There is risk with all medication, your sister was just one of the unfortunate ones.

Q: What are the symptoms of Chrons disease and Ulcerative Colitis?
Something isnt right with me lately, (this is my symptoms) I have abdominal pain for 1 month now in the same area (lower right side) and pale yellow diarreah that is sometimes once a day to ten times a day…I am constantly tired and in pain.. they ruled out appendicitis, cysts, a hernia, and bowel obstruction….they think i might have one of these disorders listed above, I have a young baby to take care of and I feel like crap, any information would be greatly appreciated thank you!

A: I would look up either Celiac Disease or since you have a baby: Endometriosis. Look those up. They sound like your symptoms. But don’t worry, these are treatable!

Good luck and I hope this helps!

Q: What symptoms do Crohns disease and ulcerative colitis share?

A: Diarrhea (bloody diarrhea is more common in UC but can appear in CD)
Stomach pain & cramps
Fatigue, dehydration and weight loss

Q: Symptoms of Crone’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis?
What are the usual syptoms of these illnesses, how similar are they to each other and how can they be treated? Is ‘bowel removal’ always necessary or can it be managed without having to have this drastic operation? I need as much advice as possible please. Thank you in advance.

A: Crohn’s disease is a chronic transmural inflammatory disease that usually affects the distal ileum and colon but may occur in any part of the GI tract. Symptoms include diarrhea and abdominal pain. Abscesses, internal and external fistulas, and bowel obstruction may arise. Extraintestinal symptoms, particularly arthritis, may occur. Diagnosis is by colonoscopy and barium contrast studies. Treatment is with 5-aminosalicylic acid, corticosteroids, immunomodulators, anticytokines, antibiotics, and often surgery.
Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory and ulcerative disease arising in the colonic mucosa, characterized most often by bloody diarrhea. Extraintestinal symptoms, particularly arthritis, may occur. Long-term risk of colon cancer is high. Diagnosis is by colonoscopy. Treatment is with 5-aminosalicylic acid, corticosteroids, immunomodulators, anticytokines, antibiotics, and occasionally surgery.

Q: Do i have Crohn’s Disease or Ulcerative Colitis?
Okay i asked my doctor about this and he thinks i have Crohn’s Disease but on the other hand he thinks i may Ulcerative Colitis. Here are my symptoms..

Go to the bathroom about 4 -5 times a day with blood
Never had any pain
Don’t have fistulate or anything on my skin (rashes, marks)
Lost some weight
was never annemic
My entire colon was inflammed
just a little bit of inflamation on my illieum but not enough to cause anything.
Never had a fever nor vomitted
Never really felt sick

Do these symptoms sound like Crohn’s or Colitis disease? Hope you guys can help!
Well my rectum area is inflammed and i do see a GI specialist. I’m not so sure if he is a good one though because he doesn’t seem to know a lot. I did get a colonscopy and the doctor said it looks like you have UC. But after doing this one test in Cali they determined i have Crohn’s. It’s very strange though because i don’t really feel like i have crohn’s, i mean yeah i go to the bathroom a lot of times but it’s not like i feel terrible. It’s just annoying and the only reason i go to the doctor is because there’s blood. Anyway after the colonscopy i do have relatively mild – moderate inflammation. I’m on remicade right now and had my second infusion one week ago. So far i am going to the bathroom 1 – 2 times a day. There is still a little bit of blood but nothing like before. Do you think this remicade is working on my so far or after two infusions i should be healed by now?

A: hi henry, as a crohn’s survivor I can tell you that Crohn’s can and does affect anywhere in the digestive tract from the mouth, esophagus, small intestines, large intestines, rectum, and anus. A colonoscopy & biopsy plus Prometheus blood work can properly dx what you have.

The Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of America has a website you can go to find the necessary info you are looking for plus they have a live chat & a hotline that is run by healthcare professionals.

Are you on any treatments now such as Remicade, Humira, Entocort, 6MP, or Imuran? You need to be on something for the inflammation.

Some ppl are lucky with their illness as they aren’t in much pain or they are put in remission after being on medication and staying on it.

Good luck to you.

Q: I can’t define, which one is right crohn disease or ulcer colitis because symptom r almost the same?
I have been discover to have it after the barium meal where dr is trying 2 diagnose it

A: Crohn’s disease.
is a chronic, episodic, inflammatory condition of the gastrointestinal tract characterized by transmural inflammation (affecting the entire wall of the involved bowel) and skip lesions (areas of inflammation with areas of normal lining in between). Crohn’s disease is a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract from mouth to anus; as a result, the symptoms of Crohn’s disease can vary between affected individuals. The main gastrointestinal symptoms are abdominal pain, diarrhea, which may be bloody, and weight loss. Crohn’s disease can also cause complications outside of the gastrointestinal tract such as skin rashes, arthritis, and inflammation of the eye.

Ulcerative Colitis
colitis is a disease where inflammation develops in the large intestine (the colon and rectum). The most common symptom when the disease flares-up is bloody diarrhoea. You can usually prevent symptoms from flaring up by taking medication each day. When a flare-up does occur, treatment can usually ease symptoms. Surgery to remove the large intestine is needed in some cases. Colitis means ‘inflammation of the colon’.
Ulcerative means that ulcers tend to develop. An ulcer is a raw area on the lining of the intestine which may bleed.
The inflammation and ulcers in the large intestine cause the common symptoms of diarrhoea, and passing blood and mucus.

Symptoms are Diarrhoea. This varies from mild to severe. The diarrhoea may be mixed with mucus or pus. An urgency to get to the toilet is common. A feeling of wanting to go to the toilet but with nothing to pass is also common (tenesmus). Water is not absorbed so well in the inflamed colon, which makes the diarrhoea watery.
Blood mixed with diarrhoea is common (‘bloody diarrhoea’).
Crampy pains in the abdomen.
Pain when passing stools.
Proctitis. Symptoms may be different if a flare-up only affects the rectum, and not the colon. You may have fresh bleeding from the rectum, and you may form normal stools rather than have diarrhoea. You may even become constipated, but with a frequent feeling of wanting to go to the toilet.
Feeling generally unwell is typical if the flare-up affects a large amount of the large intestine, or lasts a long time. Fever, tiredness, feeling sick, weight loss, and anaemia may develop.

A doctor can look inside the colon using a special telescope (a short sigmoidoscope or a longer flexible colonoscope. Separate leaflets describe these tests in detail). The appearance of the inside lining of the colon may suggest UC. A small sample (biopsy) of the colon is taken and looked at under the microscope. The typical pattern of the cells seen with the microscope may confirm the diagnosis.

A special X-ray of the large intestine (barium enema) may also be advised. This can help to show how much of the colon is affected.

Q: Any pregnant ladies out there with Crohn’s Disease or colitis?
And just wondering how you are doing during your pregnancy?

I had a major flare during my first pregnancy, and minor symptoms during my second. I went into remission for almost two years and have been having problems again during this pregnancy, but I think it’s more due to pregnancy than the illness.

Were any of you flaring during delivery and did you have a vaginal or opt for a c-section?

A: Hi. I have mild crohn’s disease and I flared up a little with my first pregnancy and this one. I strongly believe it has to do more with the pregnancy…maybe the hormones because it happens much more when I am pregnant as opposed to when I’m not. I haven’t had our 2nd yet and I flared up a little during delivery with our first. I would never get a c-section unless I had to so I had our son vaginally. Good luck

Q: Is ulcerative colitis link with depression?
I want to know if depression can make ulcerative colitis symptoms worse or cause the person to get out of remission of this terrible disease?

A: Anything that causes pain can cause depression. If your hurting physically your going to feel depressed. Now if your depressed and having anxiety, then it can cause the acid in your stomach to build up and thus give you an ulcer. My best friend is suffering from a bleeding ulcer, and her’s flares up whenever she gets upset. She usually ends up throwing up. She also suffers from depression.

Q: Chrons Disease Ulcerative colitis IBS.?
I was wondering About Chrons Disease and Ulcerative colitis and IBS. My friend has symptoms that are similar to all of these. Shes been in so much abdominal pain lately. What were your first signs. What happens.When to seek help… I would really like to help her out. Any stories would be appreciated

A: Your friend should really consider going to the doctor. The symptoms of IBS, and all forms of colitis (Crohn’s, collagenous, lymphocytic, etc.) , celiac disease, lactose intolerance, soy intolerance, casein intolerance are all very similar. Tests need to be run to rule out (or in) what her issue is. Please tell your friend that her best option is to see her doctor and then ask for a referral to a gastroenterologist.

Q: Crohn’s Disease/Colitis – A little upset?
Alright so, my problem is that I might have Colitis or Crohn’s disease. Thursday I woke up with a stomach ache and it kind a little worse over the day but it wasn’t really bad, I’ve had worse. I had a little bit of cramps too. So I got a fever with it around 8:30 and my mom took me to the ER to get a check up, and about 30 – 40 mins being there my stomach ache was virtually gone but my mom wanted me to go through with the CT Scan they originally were going to do. So I did all the stuff they wanted me to do before it, drank some water with some weird stuff in it and got a blood sample and they gave me morphine and IV for some reason. After the morphine I felt like CRAP (Bad dizzyness and woosyness) then about an hour later did the CT Scan, they found out I didn’t have what they thought I did which was a appendicitis, but my doctor said I have a slight inflammation in my intestine which could indicate colitis or Crohn’s disease, then the next day I woke up with a bad stomach ache but I think that might of been from all the crap the hospital gave me because my arm was also in pain from the IV and stuff. I woke up today and felt almost 100% better but now have a little discomfort in my stomach (No pain at all, just feels kinda weird) and have a little diarrhea, but my doctor had prescribed me a stool softener (don’t need to take it now) and also gave me vikidin, which I have no idea why unless he thought my stomach ache was THAT bad but it wasn’t at all. So I’m going to take some medicine tonight (probably some diarrhea type like Pepto bismal) and see if my stomach ache is gone completely tomorrow (It’s been getting ALOT less worse over time)

but basically my question is, what chance is there that I have Crohn’s disease or Colitis? And if it turns out I do is there any severity to it? I’ve been reading about it and said it’s not that bad of a disease, and it’s possible to have remissions(periods of time you have very little or no symptoms at all) for months/years at a time, and the worse thing you would experience is a bad flare-up, so if I do have it is there any real thing to fear? (I don’t mean like death or anything) Just like severe pains or anything? I’m kind of shakey at the moment and I know I shouldn’t since my doctor doesn’t know for sure, but how hard is it to deal with this disease with your life?

I’m going back for a check-up maybe around Monday. And I turned 17 Dec 8 if that helps.
My doctor didn’t say specific Colitis or Crohn’s disease, he thought I had appendicitis at first, but took the CT Scan and said I was perfectly fine (everything with me was including my blood and all that) the only thing was I had slight inflammation in my intestines, no blocking or anything. And he said it could indicate either colitis or crohn’s. And I’m going back for a check-up soon and I’m going to ask my mom to tell them to get those specific tests done for me to check if I do, and I don’t have to worry about my weight for now, and I’ve been eating alot lately (nothing has upsetted my stomach so far) Just to make sure. And no, I don’t have a bad pain in my stomach, as I said just a little discomfort like stomach ache feeling, but I think that’s caused from the Diarrhea since I usually get a stomach ache when I have it.
And about the pain meds, yeahhh. My mom was really shocked when she saw the prescription, she doesn’t even want to give me the medicine (I’m not gonna take it) she said she’ll only give it to me if my stomach ache gets excrusiatingly bad, but if it gets bad enough to where I need vikidin I think I’d rather go the ER instead.

A: hi xx, I am a crohn’s survivor for many yrs. dxed at age 12.

If you check out the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation’s site, they have all of the accurate information you are looking for such as treatment, diet, surgery, coping, as well as locating a local support chapter near you as well as a hotline, live chat, and an open forum where you can post questions to others who have IBD (crohn’s or UC).

If you are in pain, you are entitled to be made comfortable until things are under control.

Definitely check out the site. It’s worth it!!

Q: Sick from 2006 till present .Colitis ,mineures Disease , Hyper Hydrosis , can they all be related?
Medical History , Looking for the Relation of my symptoms and maybe some insight into them. I am at the end of my rope and doctors dont seem to care.

I am a 23 year old male . I was born with Cerebral Palsy and premature . The CP effects me by way of minor motor skill impairment and effects my left side more which makes me walk pidgin toed etc. It is spastic cerebral palsy which makes my muscles more tense then usual.

I also have asthsma which was bad but barely comes and goes in the recent 5 years of my life.

I was on paxil from 05-06.

Feb 2006 About three months after stopping . I woke up one morning to being almost deaf in my left ear vomiting and having severe nausea. The docotor diagnosed me with Mineures disease and started me on prednesone for one week and did tympanic steroid injections which brought back most of my hearing in my left ear but i have constant tinnitus which flares up and fades since then till now .

I then developed constant sweating under my arms they labeled hyperhydrosis . Previous to this i never even had to use antiperspirant because i was not a sweaty person.

I then developed Colitis in December 2006 . I Battled with constant diarrhea and constant watery stool . I had severe weight loss and mal nutrition . I went from well built 185 pounds to about 150 pounds and looked like somone who was on chemo therepy . The doctors said they thought i had a yeast infection in my bowels so i started on a yeast cleanser . About a year later after taking probiotics daily a strong multi vitamin and eating very healthy .The Symptoms stopped

Now within the last week. All the symtoms are back . They did a wheat gluten test . I am not allergic. They found my white blood cell to be high .

I started on cipro floxin 2x a day for 10 days.
Flagyl 250 mg 3x a day for 10 days
Benyl 2 x a day for ten days.

The medication seems to be working but .

I have acne on my face and some on my body which i am the kind of person to have a pimple here n there randomly but nothing serious.

I have become very pale and EXHAUSTED! I am sleeping 12-13 hours a day between work n school and at night and I look like when i had insomnia. My eyes are black underneeth and all iwant to do is crawl in bed.

I was wondering . if any of these symptoms could be the effect of another disease that could tie them all together .

It just seems to me that they all seem to go off at once .
I was fine for a year leading a normal life with only my ear ringing still quietly etc.

Now i have a roar in my ear , Upset stomach , Im restless etc

Can anyone help me , or think of what i can do to get an answer?

Saw a ENT who diagnosed me with

A: Wow, I really feel for you. I’m not a doctor, but I read a lot of medical stuff and I wonder about the Paxil. Symptoms of each of the issues you present with can be found with Paxil use or withdrawal. Did you have a physician supervise stopping your use of Paxil? Not extremely common side effects for most of them, but you can check out the Paxil info: http://www.rxlist.com/cgi/generic/parox_ad.htm (This is the same info you can find at the GlaxoSmithKline website, you can download a pdf there.)

The other sort of connection I see is that it’s possible they all may have some sort of neurological link. Your CP is most likely from brain injury due to being premature — or CP can actually happen in utero and issues before birth may be the cause for prematurity. (My teen son was born at 23 weeks, and I’ve done a lot of research on prematurity.) CP can show up in all parts of your body (even affecting eating, digestion, etc), so I wonder if somehow there is some sort of connection. It is not uncommon for preemies to have issues show up as adults. Two you should watch for are high blood pressure and mental health issues. These are most common in the earliest preemies but possibly can happen in preemies who have issues like CP.

I’ve decided it’s better to know all this stuff even though I don’t like hearing it – because I can act on it. I know I need to keep a watch on my son’s bp more than I would if he weren’t premature and also his mental health and make sure he’s not having too much stress in school, etc. Better to be aware.

Did the doctor check your pituitary gland?

It seems like you need to see another doctor, maybe at a big health center where they can easily send you to a doctor in a different department if necessary. I don’t usually like teaching hospitals, but you might find help at one. Think UCLA or a similar facility in your area.

There are different types of the issues you mention, Colitis, Meniere’s, and Hyperhidrosis, it may be important to know which types you have to know how they may be connected.

I would also suggest looking on the internet for support groups for each of these issues and see if you can find anyone who is going through what you are. Please be careful of the scam cures and misinformation you’ll find online.

Can you work on controlling your stress levels? It appears all of those issues may be affected by stress. Walking is a great stress reliever, and you might want to try meditation, yoga or anything else that would work to release your stress.

Take care and good luck in finding the answer.

Q: Uncontrollable twitching w/Crohns Disease or Colitis Normal?
I have been told by a doctor that I may have Crohns Disease or Colitis. I’ve looked up the basic symptoms and have MANY of both. Is there anywhere that gives the more detailed smaller symptoms? ( Tonight, my hand was twitching and I couldn’t make it stop, anyone know if that is normal or known of with either?) Sometimes my whole body gets shaky. I haven’t read that anywhere! I’m real worried, plz help!!
*I’m not on any medications

A: Hey there. Chrons disease and colitis (or more specifically ulcerative colitis) are two diseases that fall under the category of inflamatory bowel disease. These diseases are not of the same nature as irritable bowel syndrome. There are many systemic symptoms for both of these disease, but I am not familiar with hand shakiness being one of them. May possibly be something unrelated such as anxiety (certainly being recently diagnosed with a chronic illness can be anxiety provoking). However, inflamatory bowel diseases affect so many different systems, and can lead to malabsorption of things like vitamin b12, folate, and iron, deficiencies of which may cause the symptoms you describe. You need to have your blood checked for these by your family doctor or gi specialist.

Q: Which disease is most likely, Crohns,coeliac or colitis?
I’ve been looking on the net and i think i’ve got either Crohn’s, Coeliac disease or Ulcerative Colitis, though im not a dr and it could be something else. Which one do you think is most likely these are my symptoms.
I’ve been ill for last 11 weeks now with a stomach ache almost all the time, my appetite has gone, im struggling to eat and i’ve lost over 2 stone now. Im also exhausted all the time, im not normally a lazy person but im needing around 15 hours sleep a night now. Also sometimes i feel like i need the toilet but nothing or some mucus comes out (sorry i know thats sick) and i had diarrhoea until a few weeks ago. I’ve had a gastroscopy, ultrasound, baruim x-ray as well as blood tests and a stool sample, im not lactose intollerant and im not stressed. And i’ve taken 3 different medications incase its IBS and neither have helped. I dont know what it could be and i’ve hardly been able to leave the house for 11 weeks. I’ve also noticed if i have fatty or greasy food it makes me a lot worse.If it helps im 21, dont smoke or drink either. Thanks a lot

A: hi jezz, i am a crohn’s pt. for 28 yrs. when I was 12, I was tested for it but everything was normal as well but my GI went with his instincts based upon my physical symptoms, fatigue, low grade fever, bleeding at times, the big “D” or “C”, abdominal pain, etc. He gave me the dx of Crohn’s and started treating me accordingly. A few yrs. later, when I was really sick, it finally showed up on a scope.

It is a tough illness to dx. There is a new blood test out cld Prometheus. It is used to dx a pt. with either Crohn’s or UC.

For more information on IBD, check out the crohn’s and colitis website. There is also a live chat, a hotline, and an open forum where you can post questions. hope this helps. feel better

Q: I have a bowel disease, can i still join the Australian Defence Force?
I’m 19 and i have a bowel disease called have Ulcerative Colitis. It is completely under control, i have had no symptoms for over 2 years. My bowels work just as well as anyone else’s. However i take 4 tablets on a daily basis. Does this mean i can’t join the army? Does anyone know anyone in the army with a bowel disease?

A: Ulcerative Colitis is an autoimmune condition and stress would aggravate it. New job/lifestyle, new living quarters, away from family and loved ones, possibly in another state – things to think about.

It would be best to ask The Australian Army directly, incognito of course.

ps – I know you said it ‘is completely under control’ but are you following an ‘anti-inflammation diet’ ? If interested I can give you something to read.

Q: I am 23 years wondering whether I have colitis or ciliac disease?
I had bloody stool and diarah. My favorite food was cheese pizza.
I did not have any flare ups or any of the above symptoms for the past 2 1/12 years.
Once I have adpated gluten free / diary free diet all the above symptomps subsided, and I am feeling fine. Is it possible that I was misdiagnosted??. My only present symptomps are:
feel tired at times, I still have loss of hair , dandruff , I have checked my iron; it is normal on the low side. At times i get skin rashes.
2 1/2 years ago when the Md. did a colonoscopy, he was amazed how clear my colon was. I have been prescribed to take 8 Salofalk per day, however I have been taking only 4.
At this stage should I pursue testing for Celiac. I know of Colitis sufferers, who follow my diet, however continue to have the bloody stool, bloating and diareha. I am wondering whether I have been lucky not having any symptoms or misdiagnosed

A: Yes, if you have Celiac you need to know it so you can continue on a gluten free diet. It’s possible that you only have lactose intolerance. But do go for testing. It’s very important. Even if you are not having problems right now, your doctor needs to determine what your problem is if it is not Celiac. Your food is so important in your life and for your health. You need all the nutrition your food gives you to be absorbed into your bloodstream for nutrition, so be serious about your health. It is important. Once your health is gone, your life isn’t valuable anymore, so do what your doctor tells you. Good luck to you!!!

Q: What is the difference between ulcerative colitis and chron’s disease? And how bad are colonoscopies?
My doctor suspects I have one of these two diseases, and I have a colonoscopy next Tuesday. Here are my symptoms:

bleeding from rectum
mild to moderate eye inflammation (it is true, I went to the eye doctor)
bright red stool
dark, almost black stool
green stool
a combination of all those colors in my stool
mucus in my stool
diarreha once to four times a day
pain when passing stool
lower right abdominal pain
whole abdominal pain
cramping in my stomach
moderate to severe middle to upper back and neck pain
weight loss
fatigue
constipation (at times)

Please don’t call me a liar, I posted a question before and got such negative answers I deleted it. All of these symptoms have been going on for the past couple months, so I obvisiously don’t have constipation and diarreha at the same time. Everyone thought I was lying on my last question because they thought I was saying I was having all those symptoms at the same time. Oh and I don’t have a parasite or a bacterial infection, I had tests to outrule those. I also don’t think I have colon cancer. It was a concern at first because my grandma died of colon cancer and so did three of her sisters, 2 of whom died at age 16 and early twenties. I am 18 years old and female. My blood work came back fine though, so I’m pretty sure I don’t have colon cancer.

Oh and I had a cat scan, but all they could determine was that I had diverticulosis, (not to be confused with diverticulitis, which means the holes are inflammed, mine are not) and so that could not be a reason for all my symptoms.

Last thing is are bad are colonoscopies? I have one next Tuesday and I’m quite nervous. I heard they are not painful, but I’m not sure If I beleive that. I also heard the beforehand of cleansing is really bad too. How bad? Will it hurt?

Okay that’s it. Sorry my question is kind of long. I didn’t get to ask my doctor the difference between the two diseases so I’m just wondering which one I most likely have.

A: zwimmerz,
In crohn’s disease –CD -, the location of the inflammation may occur anywhere along the digestive tract from the mouth to the anus. In ulcerative colitis – UC -, the large intestine (colon) is typically the only site that is affected. However, in some people with UC the last section of the small intestine, the ileum, may also show inflammation. UC tends to be continuous throughout the inflamed areas. In many cases, UC begins in the rectum or sigmoid colon, and spreads up through the colon as the disease progresses. In CD, the inflammation may occur in patches in one or more organs in the digestive system. For instance, a diseased section of colon may appear between two healthy sections. I presume that you know about the following details, but I shall briefly mention it in case you are not. Many people have small pouches in their colons that bulge outward through weak spots, like an inner tube that pokes through weak places in a tyre. Each pouch is called a diverticulum. Pouches (plural) are called diverticula. The condition of having diverticula is called diverticulosis. When the pouches become infected or inflamed, the condition is called diverticulitis. Diverticulosis and diverticulitis are also called diverticular disease. Constipation makes the muscles strain to move stool that is too hard. It is the main cause of increased pressure in the colon. This excess pressure might cause the weak spots in the colon to bulge out and become diverticula. Diverticulitis occurs when diverticula become infected or inflamed. Doctors are not certain what causes the infection. It may begin when stool or bacteria are caught in the diverticula. An attack of diverticulitis can develop suddenly and without warning. Colonoscopy is a procedure used to see inside the colon and rectum. Colonoscopy can detect inflamed tissue, ulcers, and abnormal growths. The procedure is also used to look for early signs of colorectal cancer and can help doctors diagnose unexplained changes in bowel habits, abdominal pain, bleeding from the anus, and weight loss. The doctor/hospital department usually provides written instructions about how to prepare for colonoscopy. The process is called a bowel prep. Generally, all solids must be emptied from the gastrointestinal tract by following a clear liquid diet for 1 to 3 days before the procedure. Patients should not drink beverages containing red or purple dye. A laxative or an enema may be required the night before colonoscopy. There is not usually any actual ‘pain’ during the procedure, it is often described as ‘uncomfortable’.

ALL ANSWERS SHOULD BE THOROUGHLY RESEARCHED, IN ANY FORUM AND ESPECIALLY IN THIS ONE. – MANY ANSWERS ARE FLAWED.

It is extremely important to obtain an accurate diagnosis before trying to find a cure. Many diseases and conditions share common symptoms.

The information provided here should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions.

I add a link for each of these subjects

http://en.wikipedia.org/
wiki/Ulcerative_colitis

http://en.wikipedia.org/
wiki/Crohn%27s_disease

http://en.wikipedia.org/
wiki/Diverticulosis

http://en.wikipedia.org/
wiki/Colonoscopy

Hope this helps
matador 89

Q: What are the symptoms of Chrons disease and Ulcerative Colitis?
Something isnt right with me lately, (this is my symptoms) I have abdominal pain for 1 month now in the same area (lower right side) and pale yellow diarreah that is sometimes once a day to ten times a day…I am constantly tired and in pain.. they ruled out appendicitis, cysts, a hernia, and bowel obstruction….they think i might have one of these disorders listed above, I have a young baby to take care of and I feel like crap, any information would be greatly appreciated thank you!

A: I would look up either Celiac Disease or since you have a baby: Endometriosis. Look those up. They sound like your symptoms. But don’t worry, these are treatable!

Good luck and I hope this helps!

Q: Symptoms of Crone’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis?
What are the usual syptoms of these illnesses, how similar are they to each other and how can they be treated? Is ‘bowel removal’ always necessary or can it be managed without having to have this drastic operation? I need as much advice as possible please. Thank you in advance.

A: Crohn’s disease is a chronic transmural inflammatory disease that usually affects the distal ileum and colon but may occur in any part of the GI tract. Symptoms include diarrhea and abdominal pain. Abscesses, internal and external fistulas, and bowel obstruction may arise. Extraintestinal symptoms, particularly arthritis, may occur. Diagnosis is by colonoscopy and barium contrast studies. Treatment is with 5-aminosalicylic acid, corticosteroids, immunomodulators, anticytokines, antibiotics, and often surgery.
Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory and ulcerative disease arising in the colonic mucosa, characterized most often by bloody diarrhea. Extraintestinal symptoms, particularly arthritis, may occur. Long-term risk of colon cancer is high. Diagnosis is by colonoscopy. Treatment is with 5-aminosalicylic acid, corticosteroids, immunomodulators, anticytokines, antibiotics, and occasionally surgery.

Q: Do i have Crohn’s Disease or Ulcerative Colitis?
Okay i asked my doctor about this and he thinks i have Crohn’s Disease but on the other hand he thinks i may Ulcerative Colitis. Here are my symptoms..

Go to the bathroom about 4 -5 times a day with blood
Never had any pain
Don’t have fistulate or anything on my skin (rashes, marks)
Lost some weight
was never annemic
My entire colon was inflammed
just a little bit of inflamation on my illieum but not enough to cause anything.
Never had a fever nor vomitted
Never really felt sick

Do these symptoms sound like Crohn’s or Colitis disease? Hope you guys can help!
Well my rectum area is inflammed and i do see a GI specialist. I’m not so sure if he is a good one though because he doesn’t seem to know a lot. I did get a colonscopy and the doctor said it looks like you have UC. But after doing this one test in Cali they determined i have Crohn’s. It’s very strange though because i don’t really feel like i have crohn’s, i mean yeah i go to the bathroom a lot of times but it’s not like i feel terrible. It’s just annoying and the only reason i go to the doctor is because there’s blood. Anyway after the colonscopy i do have relatively mild – moderate inflammation. I’m on remicade right now and had my second infusion one week ago. So far i am going to the bathroom 1 – 2 times a day. There is still a little bit of blood but nothing like before. Do you think this remicade is working on my so far or after two infusions i should be healed by now?

A: hi henry, as a crohn’s survivor I can tell you that Crohn’s can and does affect anywhere in the digestive tract from the mouth, esophagus, small intestines, large intestines, rectum, and anus. A colonoscopy & biopsy plus Prometheus blood work can properly dx what you have.

The Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of America has a website you can go to find the necessary info you are looking for plus they have a live chat & a hotline that is run by healthcare professionals.

Are you on any treatments now such as Remicade, Humira, Entocort, 6MP, or Imuran? You need to be on something for the inflammation.

Some ppl are lucky with their illness as they aren’t in much pain or they are put in remission after being on medication and staying on it.

Good luck to you.

Q: Is ulcerative colitis link with depression?
I want to know if depression can make ulcerative colitis symptoms worse or cause the person to get out of remission of this terrible disease?

A: Anything that causes pain can cause depression. If your hurting physically your going to feel depressed. Now if your depressed and having anxiety, then it can cause the acid in your stomach to build up and thus give you an ulcer. My best friend is suffering from a bleeding ulcer, and her’s flares up whenever she gets upset. She usually ends up throwing up. She also suffers from depression.

Q: Any pregnant ladies out there with Crohn’s Disease or colitis?
And just wondering how you are doing during your pregnancy?

I had a major flare during my first pregnancy, and minor symptoms during my second. I went into remission for almost two years and have been having problems again during this pregnancy, but I think it’s more due to pregnancy than the illness.

Were any of you flaring during delivery and did you have a vaginal or opt for a c-section?

A: Hi. I have mild crohn’s disease and I flared up a little with my first pregnancy and this one. I strongly believe it has to do more with the pregnancy…maybe the hormones because it happens much more when I am pregnant as opposed to when I’m not. I haven’t had our 2nd yet and I flared up a little during delivery with our first. I would never get a c-section unless I had to so I had our son vaginally. Good luck

Q: Sick from 2006 till present .Colitis ,mineures Disease , Hyper Hydrosis , can they all be related?
Medical History , Looking for the Relation of my symptoms and maybe some insight into them. I am at the end of my rope and doctors dont seem to care.

I am a 23 year old male . I was born with Cerebral Palsy and premature . The CP effects me by way of minor motor skill impairment and effects my left side more which makes me walk pidgin toed etc. It is spastic cerebral palsy which makes my muscles more tense then usual.

I also have asthsma which was bad but barely comes and goes in the recent 5 years of my life.

I was on paxil from 05-06.

Feb 2006 About three months after stopping . I woke up one morning to being almost deaf in my left ear vomiting and having severe nausea. The docotor diagnosed me with Mineures disease and started me on prednesone for one week and did tympanic steroid injections which brought back most of my hearing in my left ear but i have constant tinnitus which flares up and fades since then till now .

I then developed constant sweating under my arms they labeled hyperhydrosis . Previous to this i never even had to use antiperspirant because i was not a sweaty person.

I then developed Colitis in December 2006 . I Battled with constant diarrhea and constant watery stool . I had severe weight loss and mal nutrition . I went from well built 185 pounds to about 150 pounds and looked like somone who was on chemo therepy . The doctors said they thought i had a yeast infection in my bowels so i started on a yeast cleanser . About a year later after taking probiotics daily a strong multi vitamin and eating very healthy .The Symptoms stopped

Now within the last week. All the symtoms are back . They did a wheat gluten test . I am not allergic. They found my white blood cell to be high .

I started on cipro floxin 2x a day for 10 days.
Flagyl 250 mg 3x a day for 10 days
Benyl 2 x a day for ten days.

The medication seems to be working but .

I have acne on my face and some on my body which i am the kind of person to have a pimple here n there randomly but nothing serious.

I have become very pale and EXHAUSTED! I am sleeping 12-13 hours a day between work n school and at night and I look like when i had insomnia. My eyes are black underneeth and all iwant to do is crawl in bed.

I was wondering . if any of these symptoms could be the effect of another disease that could tie them all together .

It just seems to me that they all seem to go off at once .
I was fine for a year leading a normal life with only my ear ringing still quietly etc.

Now i have a roar in my ear , Upset stomach , Im restless etc

Can anyone help me , or think of what i can do to get an answer?

Saw a ENT who diagnosed me with

A: Wow, I really feel for you. I’m not a doctor, but I read a lot of medical stuff and I wonder about the Paxil. Symptoms of each of the issues you present with can be found with Paxil use or withdrawal. Did you have a physician supervise stopping your use of Paxil? Not extremely common side effects for most of them, but you can check out the Paxil info: http://www.rxlist.com/cgi/generic/parox_ad.htm (This is the same info you can find at the GlaxoSmithKline website, you can download a pdf there.)

The other sort of connection I see is that it’s possible they all may have some sort of neurological link. Your CP is most likely from brain injury due to being premature — or CP can actually happen in utero and issues before birth may be the cause for prematurity. (My teen son was born at 23 weeks, and I’ve done a lot of research on prematurity.) CP can show up in all parts of your body (even affecting eating, digestion, etc), so I wonder if somehow there is some sort of connection. It is not uncommon for preemies to have issues show up as adults. Two you should watch for are high blood pressure and mental health issues. These are most common in the earliest preemies but possibly can happen in preemies who have issues like CP.

I’ve decided it’s better to know all this stuff even though I don’t like hearing it – because I can act on it. I know I need to keep a watch on my son’s bp more than I would if he weren’t premature and also his mental health and make sure he’s not having too much stress in school, etc. Better to be aware.

Did the doctor check your pituitary gland?

It seems like you need to see another doctor, maybe at a big health center where they can easily send you to a doctor in a different department if necessary. I don’t usually like teaching hospitals, but you might find help at one. Think UCLA or a similar facility in your area.

There are different types of the issues you mention, Colitis, Meniere’s, and Hyperhidrosis, it may be important to know which types you have to know how they may be connected.

I would also suggest looking on the internet for support groups for each of these issues and see if you can find anyone who is going through what you are. Please be careful of the scam cures and misinformation you’ll find online.

Can you work on controlling your stress levels? It appears all of those issues may be affected by stress. Walking is a great stress reliever, and you might want to try meditation, yoga or anything else that would work to release your stress.

Take care and good luck in finding the answer.

Q: Chrons Disease Ulcerative colitis IBS.?
I was wondering About Chrons Disease and Ulcerative colitis and IBS. My friend has symptoms that are similar to all of these. Shes been in so much abdominal pain lately. What were your first signs. What happens.When to seek help… I would really like to help her out. Any stories would be appreciated

A: Your friend should really consider going to the doctor. The symptoms of IBS, and all forms of colitis (Crohn’s, collagenous, lymphocytic, etc.) , celiac disease, lactose intolerance, soy intolerance, casein intolerance are all very similar. Tests need to be run to rule out (or in) what her issue is. Please tell your friend that her best option is to see her doctor and then ask for a referral to a gastroenterologist.

Q: Uncontrollable twitching w/Crohns Disease or Colitis Normal?
I have been told by a doctor that I may have Crohns Disease or Colitis. I’ve looked up the basic symptoms and have MANY of both. Is there anywhere that gives the more detailed smaller symptoms? ( Tonight, my hand was twitching and I couldn’t make it stop, anyone know if that is normal or known of with either?) Sometimes my whole body gets shaky. I haven’t read that anywhere! I’m real worried, plz help!!
*I’m not on any medications

A: Hey there. Chrons disease and colitis (or more specifically ulcerative colitis) are two diseases that fall under the category of inflamatory bowel disease. These diseases are not of the same nature as irritable bowel syndrome. There are many systemic symptoms for both of these disease, but I am not familiar with hand shakiness being one of them. May possibly be something unrelated such as anxiety (certainly being recently diagnosed with a chronic illness can be anxiety provoking). However, inflamatory bowel diseases affect so many different systems, and can lead to malabsorption of things like vitamin b12, folate, and iron, deficiencies of which may cause the symptoms you describe. You need to have your blood checked for these by your family doctor or gi specialist.

Q: Crohn’s Disease/Colitis – A little upset?
Alright so, my problem is that I might have Colitis or Crohn’s disease. Thursday I woke up with a stomach ache and it kind a little worse over the day but it wasn’t really bad, I’ve had worse. I had a little bit of cramps too. So I got a fever with it around 8:30 and my mom took me to the ER to get a check up, and about 30 – 40 mins being there my stomach ache was virtually gone but my mom wanted me to go through with the CT Scan they originally were going to do. So I did all the stuff they wanted me to do before it, drank some water with some weird stuff in it and got a blood sample and they gave me morphine and IV for some reason. After the morphine I felt like CRAP (Bad dizzyness and woosyness) then about an hour later did the CT Scan, they found out I didn’t have what they thought I did which was a appendicitis, but my doctor said I have a slight inflammation in my intestine which could indicate colitis or Crohn’s disease, then the next day I woke up with a bad stomach ache but I think that might of been from all the crap the hospital gave me because my arm was also in pain from the IV and stuff. I woke up today and felt almost 100% better but now have a little discomfort in my stomach (No pain at all, just feels kinda weird) and have a little diarrhea, but my doctor had prescribed me a stool softener (don’t need to take it now) and also gave me vikidin, which I have no idea why unless he thought my stomach ache was THAT bad but it wasn’t at all. So I’m going to take some medicine tonight (probably some diarrhea type like Pepto bismal) and see if my stomach ache is gone completely tomorrow (It’s been getting ALOT less worse over time)

but basically my question is, what chance is there that I have Crohn’s disease or Colitis? And if it turns out I do is there any severity to it? I’ve been reading about it and said it’s not that bad of a disease, and it’s possible to have remissions(periods of time you have very little or no symptoms at all) for months/years at a time, and the worse thing you would experience is a bad flare-up, so if I do have it is there any real thing to fear? (I don’t mean like death or anything) Just like severe pains or anything? I’m kind of shakey at the moment and I know I shouldn’t since my doctor doesn’t know for sure, but how hard is it to deal with this disease with your life?

I’m going back for a check-up maybe around Monday. And I turned 17 Dec 8 if that helps.
My doctor didn’t say specific Colitis or Crohn’s disease, he thought I had appendicitis at first, but took the CT Scan and said I was perfectly fine (everything with me was including my blood and all that) the only thing was I had slight inflammation in my intestines, no blocking or anything. And he said it could indicate either colitis or crohn’s. And I’m going back for a check-up soon and I’m going to ask my mom to tell them to get those specific tests done for me to check if I do, and I don’t have to worry about my weight for now, and I’ve been eating alot lately (nothing has upsetted my stomach so far) Just to make sure. And no, I don’t have a bad pain in my stomach, as I said just a little discomfort like stomach ache feeling, but I think that’s caused from the Diarrhea since I usually get a stomach ache when I have it.
And about the pain meds, yeahhh. My mom was really shocked when she saw the prescription, she doesn’t even want to give me the medicine (I’m not gonna take it) she said she’ll only give it to me if my stomach ache gets excrusiatingly bad, but if it gets bad enough to where I need vikidin I think I’d rather go the ER instead.

A: hi xx, I am a crohn’s survivor for many yrs. dxed at age 12.

If you check out the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation’s site, they have all of the accurate information you are looking for such as treatment, diet, surgery, coping, as well as locating a local support chapter near you as well as a hotline, live chat, and an open forum where you can post questions to others who have IBD (crohn’s or UC).

If you are in pain, you are entitled to be made comfortable until things are under control.

Definitely check out the site. It’s worth it!!

Q: I am 23 years wondering whether I have colitis or ciliac disease?
I had bloody stool and diarah. My favorite food was cheese pizza.
I did not have any flare ups or any of the above symptoms for the past 2 1/12 years.
Once I have adpated gluten free / diary free diet all the above symptomps subsided, and I am feeling fine. Is it possible that I was misdiagnosted??. My only present symptomps are:
feel tired at times, I still have loss of hair , dandruff , I have checked my iron; it is normal on the low side. At times i get skin rashes.
2 1/2 years ago when the Md. did a colonoscopy, he was amazed how clear my colon was. I have been prescribed to take 8 Salofalk per day, however I have been taking only 4.
At this stage should I pursue testing for Celiac. I know of Colitis sufferers, who follow my diet, however continue to have the bloody stool, bloating and diareha. I am wondering whether I have been lucky not having any symptoms or misdiagnosed

A: Yes, if you have Celiac you need to know it so you can continue on a gluten free diet. It’s possible that you only have lactose intolerance. But do go for testing. It’s very important. Even if you are not having problems right now, your doctor needs to determine what your problem is if it is not Celiac. Your food is so important in your life and for your health. You need all the nutrition your food gives you to be absorbed into your bloodstream for nutrition, so be serious about your health. It is important. Once your health is gone, your life isn’t valuable anymore, so do what your doctor tells you. Good luck to you!!!

Q: Colitis and Chrons…how does it all begin?
before someone is diagnosed with chrons or colitis, what beginning symptoms would one experience? Abnormal stomach discomfort that eventually led to symptoms of one of the diseases for example? what led u to go question stomach problems?

A: ive had symptoms of crohns since i was 14 but was not diagnosed until i was 21.
it was serious ab pain, diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, tiredness, paleness, you name it.
anytime i would eat with in 10 minutes i was in the bathroom w/ diarrhea. they kept telling me it was a virus or i had irritable bowel. finally i went to another dr and they did a colonoscopy and found the crohns. since then i have been put on meds and am doing alot better. if you have any of those symptoms that last for longer than 2 weeks…find a gastro dr to see asap…
it is not fun to go through for 7 years when i didnt have to.

Q: is anyone out there with crohn disease?
i just went to the emergency room last night and they did a ct scan and said i had colitis but they didn’t know what was causing it so they are going to send me to a gi specialist. they are also doing some tests for food type poisoning but i know it isnt that cause they all say symptoms go away after 7 to 10 days. and i have been suffering for 4 weeks now. and the other things they said could be wrong all had the symptom of diarrhea and i am constipated so i know it isnt that either. the one thing that really fit my symptoms was crohn disease. but i dont know if you have constipation with it or not, and i would really like to know how life is living with crohn disease. someone please give some help, i am very scared.

A: I have an Aunt who lives with it. She has 2 kids. Lives a very full life.
I also have a friend who lives with it as well.

With the right medical treatment you can live a long fruitfal life.

You can get consiptation from the medicine they gave you as well. So just try to eat some ruffage. Salads. Vegatables

Q: Not IBS? Not Colitis, Not Chrones, No Polyps or Hemorrhiods, what is it?
My husband has been having the problems I am about to explain starting at age 15, He is now 23.

It started as a few loose stools, and Gradually turned into constant Diahrea with 2 or more bowl movements daily. Recently (Past 2-3 years) There has been blood in his stool. Sometimes large amounts of blood. There is constant cramping and bloating of his stomach, and often between bm’s the feeling of needing to go, with no production. He has all the symptoms of Colitis, and IBS, however, These problems occur with EVERYthing he eats. And even when he doesn’t. Testing has showed no illness or disease, No chrones. A colonoscopy has revealed no colitis. Also no Polyps or hemorrhoids to cause the bleeding. Any insight on what is plaguing my husband? Because of all this he is constantly fatigued and dehydrated. Just a suggestion to bring up with the doctor would be wonderful.

A: I’m no doctor, but this story is so similar to what I have been going through. This could very likely be Celiac Disease, which is relatively unknown to doctors in the USA, as it is a disease that occurs mainly in western Europe. The highest population with Celiac are those of Irish descent. Doctors will almost always dismiss it as I.B.S. The worst part is that there is no specific test for it that is conclusive. It is a disease in which the intestines cannot digest anything with gluten, and many times dairy products (wheat, barley, rye, iodine, oats, whey, milk, butter, cream) including topical products such as shampoos, deodorants, toothpastes, make-up, lotions, the list goes on and on. Undiagnosed Celiac, as in my case, can lead to immunological disorders and diseases of all kinds, as the body is unable to fight off any airbone viruses. Lupus is a disease linked to Celiac, as well as Colorectal cancer. In my case, I developed Epilepsy and asthsma, among other countless things. Look up Celiac Disease on the net, and contact the “Silly Yaks”, the moderator is a member of YA and they are out of Canada, but will answer any questions you have. Best of Luck to you both.

Q: Has anybody ever heard of the use of active bacterial cultures to treat chron’s or colitis?
I’m curious as to whether or not daily doses of the bacterias Acidophilus and Bifidus or others might help in treating inflammatory bowel disease, or at least reducing the symptoms.

A: Yes, that is true. My daughter-in-law has ulcerative colitis and was taking prednisone. She started faithfully taking all natural Optiflora and she consistently improved – her doctor started reducing her medication ’til she was off of it completely. Optiflora is a two-product system which includes (Bifidus & Acidophilus) + Prebiotic (food source for microflora). I think the reason this supplement worked so well is because of the encapsulation process that is used. It guarantees that 500 million live microflora reaches the intestines and colon. Other products only guarantee that there are live microflora at the time of manufacture and not that they will reach the intestines live. Optiflora treats the cause and not just the symptoms.

Safe for all ages from infants to seniors with no side effects.

Hope this is helpful and feel free to contact me with questions.

Q: What is the difference between ulcerative colitis and chron’s disease? And how bad are colonoscopies?
My doctor suspects I have one of these two diseases, and I have a colonoscopy next Tuesday. Here are my symptoms:

bleeding from rectum
mild to moderate eye inflammation (it is true, I went to the eye doctor)
bright red stool
dark, almost black stool
green stool
a combination of all those colors in my stool
mucus in my stool
diarreha once to four times a day
pain when passing stool
lower right abdominal pain
whole abdominal pain
cramping in my stomach
moderate to severe middle to upper back and neck pain
weight loss
fatigue
constipation (at times)

Please don’t call me a liar, I posted a question before and got such negative answers I deleted it. All of these symptoms have been going on for the past couple months, so I obvisiously don’t have constipation and diarreha at the same time. Everyone thought I was lying on my last question because they thought I was saying I was having all those symptoms at the same time. Oh and I don’t have a parasite or a bacterial infection, I had tests to outrule those. I also don’t think I have colon cancer. It was a concern at first because my grandma died of colon cancer and so did three of her sisters, 2 of whom died at age 16 and early twenties. I am 18 years old and female. My blood work came back fine though, so I’m pretty sure I don’t have colon cancer.

Oh and I had a cat scan, but all they could determine was that I had diverticulosis, (not to be confused with diverticulitis, which means the holes are inflammed, mine are not) and so that could not be a reason for all my symptoms.

Last thing is are bad are colonoscopies? I have one next Tuesday and I’m quite nervous. I heard they are not painful, but I’m not sure If I beleive that. I also heard the beforehand of cleansing is really bad too. How bad? Will it hurt?

Okay that’s it. Sorry my question is kind of long. I didn’t get to ask my doctor the difference between the two diseases so I’m just wondering which one I most likely have.

A: zwimmerz,
In crohn’s disease –CD -, the location of the inflammation may occur anywhere along the digestive tract from the mouth to the anus. In ulcerative colitis – UC -, the large intestine (colon) is typically the only site that is affected. However, in some people with UC the last section of the small intestine, the ileum, may also show inflammation. UC tends to be continuous throughout the inflamed areas. In many cases, UC begins in the rectum or sigmoid colon, and spreads up through the colon as the disease progresses. In CD, the inflammation may occur in patches in one or more organs in the digestive system. For instance, a diseased section of colon may appear between two healthy sections. I presume that you know about the following details, but I shall briefly mention it in case you are not. Many people have small pouches in their colons that bulge outward through weak spots, like an inner tube that pokes through weak places in a tyre. Each pouch is called a diverticulum. Pouches (plural) are called diverticula. The condition of having diverticula is called diverticulosis. When the pouches become infected or inflamed, the condition is called diverticulitis. Diverticulosis and diverticulitis are also called diverticular disease. Constipation makes the muscles strain to move stool that is too hard. It is the main cause of increased pressure in the colon. This excess pressure might cause the weak spots in the colon to bulge out and become diverticula. Diverticulitis occurs when diverticula become infected or inflamed. Doctors are not certain what causes the infection. It may begin when stool or bacteria are caught in the diverticula. An attack of diverticulitis can develop suddenly and without warning. Colonoscopy is a procedure used to see inside the colon and rectum. Colonoscopy can detect inflamed tissue, ulcers, and abnormal growths. The procedure is also used to look for early signs of colorectal cancer and can help doctors diagnose unexplained changes in bowel habits, abdominal pain, bleeding from the anus, and weight loss. The doctor/hospital department usually provides written instructions about how to prepare for colonoscopy. The process is called a bowel prep. Generally, all solids must be emptied from the gastrointestinal tract by following a clear liquid diet for 1 to 3 days before the procedure. Patients should not drink beverages containing red or purple dye. A laxative or an enema may be required the night before colonoscopy. There is not usually any actual ‘pain’ during the procedure, it is often described as ‘uncomfortable’.

ALL ANSWERS SHOULD BE THOROUGHLY RESEARCHED, IN ANY FORUM AND ESPECIALLY IN THIS ONE. – MANY ANSWERS ARE FLAWED.

It is extremely important to obtain an accurate diagnosis before trying to find a cure. Many diseases and conditions share common symptoms.

The information provided here should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions.

I add a link for each of these subjects

http://en.wikipedia.org/
wiki/Ulcerative_colitis

http://en.wikipedia.org/
wiki/Crohn%27s_disease

http://en.wikipedia.org/
wiki/Diverticulosis

http://en.wikipedia.org/
wiki/Colonoscopy

Hope this helps
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