Q: Can anything besides Crohn’s or Ulcerative Colitis cause bowel inflammation?
I went to the GI doctor recently for abdominal pain, and they did a few tests, and the doctor said that the CT scan showed inflammation of the bowel. I’m wondering if it can just be something benign or if there are other conditions that can cause this other than Crohn’s or colitis?

A: Infection can cause inflammation of the bowel (colitis), diverticulitis causes inflammation in the sigmoid colon (this is more common in older adults).
Did you get a diagnosis? If not ask your doctor what the inflammation means in the context of your case.

Q: why do some people discrimate againist people with crohn’s/colitis/ibs?
i don’t understand this. people think this is funny. i suffer problems like this and sometimes my friend thinks it is funny.

A: It has to do with their immaturity. For some reason, many people think that bathroom functions are funny and the fact that some people have diseases that cause them pain and diarrhea, makes even more amusing to them. I understand that people who have to wear colostomy bags get this sort of abuse, too. Try to imagine what kinds of names they get called. It’s not pretty.

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: 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: 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: Why should IBS – Colitis – Crohn’s sufferer’s read this?
I’ll answer my own question here as I wasn’t sure how else to get this information out there for everyone to read and judge for themselves.

http://opendiary.com/entrylist.asp?authorcode=A504373

I strongly urge you to read this story. It’s my own battle with severe ulcerative colitis. I’m not a Dr. & I’m not selling anything. This is just valuable information.

I suffered for years and years before making a life or death decision. What I learned saved my life, and if you suffer as I have, hopefully you’ll look into the same answer that I found & start feeling better yourselves.

It’s a miserable illness and there is no official cure. I can tell you this though…I have it as severe as one can, all throughout my large intestine up to the ileium, and today…I can eat ice cream and fruit with the skin on it, and thai food, and so can you. Please read on & get well soon.
Thanks CumQuaT for sharing that. I too have had the ulcers in my mouth, in fact I had those for the first time 2 months before my initial break out of Colitis, but it was passed off from the Dr as stress (considering my life at the time it made perfect sense) He explained the occurrence similar to “hives” (which one can get when extrodinarily stressed.)

This is also why I’m a firm believer that in time Dr’s will come to acknowledge that stress (along with other factors) indeed can “cause” Crohn’s & Colitis…not just cause the relapses.

Deal with the stress factors in your life if you want to help deal with these diseases at least.

As for coffee…well… I’m drinking some now, lol…with cream I might add Carbonated beverages are the only thing I shy away from, not entirely…but mostly.

A: So what’s your question?

Q: Crohn’s Ulcerative Colitis problems!!!?
I just got diagnosed with Crohn’s or Ulcerative Colitis, my GI doens’t know yet. I don’t really feel to bad which seems great in comparison to what i’ve heard others say. I have about 4BMs a day, blood isn’t apparent. Many people say to keep a food journal to see what causes pain. What if i don’t have pain!? I guess I have a mild case! So can people give me advice and tell me what works for them or any other good info about Crohn’s Colitis.

A: I got diagnosed three years ago with Crohns disease, I have tried many medications but only one works for me, its saved my life. Its called remicade/inflximab. I am allergic to the others.
I have heard that food affects others however not only do i find this is not the case for me, but i see the flaws in this Research.
Firstly if you cut out dairy (like most say helps), how do you know if your feeling better because of the lack of dairy or because you are in remission? I have heard go vegan, high protein, no dairy, low fibre… but in the end its just like getting advice to go on a diet, everyone swears a different thing is best. LOL
My advice is if you want to pursue the food direction you can, but you need to know what helps you. From what i have read over the years some food help some and hinder others. You’d need to fast and introduce foods one at a time, then cut them out and do others. You might need to do this a few times to bet more conclusive results. I’d see a nutritionist to help you with this so you know that your results are better.
I am part of the crohns and collitus association of Australia. Your probably in America, but i know joining these groups are great. They give you great advice from others, they give information about what helps what doesn’t. new medications and treatments. Updates on research, and what is being done and tested for causes and cures. So much benefit. There are heaps online and they are all really good.

Its not going to be an easy road, and some suffer more than others. You will need to see a gastrologist and have a colonoscopy and/or endoscopy. This will diagnose your disease properly, so you know which one you have and how bad. i am in the top 5% of worst cases for Crohns. Its hard, my job has suffered, i have now developed fistulas which have cased me 6 surgeries and still more to come. Its been painful, tiring, degrading, depressing and costly, but im not giving up. There is always someone in a worst position and you need to remember when things get tough you need to overcome the hurdle. There is a lot of support for you out there and your not alone.

You might be glad to know that some people who are diagnosed with IBD’s get one bad fflareup and go into remission for the rest of their life. others like me, suffer from it almost everyday. everyone differs in medication success, food ssuccess other treatments like aacupuncture Essential oil therapy etc. none of these works for me, but may for you.

Good luck!

Q: Crohn’s Colitis & Pregnancy?
I was officially diagnosed with Crohn’s Colitis on Tuesday, I have a 4 year old daughter and not planning on having any more well I wasn’t but now it just got me thinking maybe one day I might change my mind but don’t know how it will effect things, I talked to my consultant about this and he said as long as i got pregnant while the disease was in remission then it should stay in remission during pregnancy. anyway, has anyone got any experience with this or know someone who has been pregnant with crohn’s?
thank you in advance.xXx
I actually have that website in my bookmarks didn’t know there was a bit on pregnancy.

thank you LAURA T

A: I’ve just been diagnosed with crohns too, i joined the NACC who have just sent me thru a load of info in the disease, there is a section on pregnancy FAQ’s in that. if you look on their website there is also an information sheet that you can download on pregnancy in IBD. www.nacc.org.uk

Q: What were your first signs of Crohn’s or Colitis?
I’ve been seeing a Gastro doctor for about 6 months now. I feel like I am on a roller coaster I go a couple weeks where i am fine – no episodes, and then for a week or 2 I can’t keep food in me. I eat and 15 minutes later I have to go to the bathroom. I get dehydrated and Cramping really bad. Recently I have become really depressed, and I hardly eat because I don’t want to get sick. does this sound like you? What were your first signs?

A: Hi Jessie, I am a female crohn’s pt. since the age of 12. My first signs at an early age were fatigue, some blood, the “big D” or “big C”, fever, joint pain. Symptoms will vary in each person though.

As I got older, it got worse–severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting at times, more blood, more D, to the point of living in the bathroom 24/7.

The Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation really helped me out when I needed emergency surgery due to my large colon being overrun by fistulas, abscesses, and inflammation. I was given an ileostomy to save my life and the local support chapter was there so I could meet others who were in similar situations.

If you check out the site, you will find stuff on how it’s dxed, how it’s treated, the latest medications to get it in remission, surgery, women’s issues, to locating a support chapter near you. There is also a live chat and a hotline you can call during the week. Both are run by healthcare experts. Try posting your questions on their open forum seeing as there are many folks with IBD (crohn’s or ulcerative colitis) who can answer your inquiries as they have been in your shoes.

I can relate to being depressed and not wanting to eat due to the pain it causes. Call your GI and get in to see him immediately as you shouldn’t be throwing up constantly. He can give you something for the pain and nausea so you can keep food down.

I wish you the best of health.

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: 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 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: Mannapol? Aloe Vera…Crohn’s/Colitis….?
My daughter is being tested for Crohn’s Disease soon and in the meantime we have have been doing some research on different ways to treat symptoms,as there is no known cure in the medical field. It has been suggested thar we try Mannapol and are wondering if anyone has any info regarding Mannapol. It is freeze dried aloe vera and is said to be a cure-all for many disorders……please serious answers only. My daughter is young and we seem to have caught it early but with Crohn’s you never know how it will be as no two people affected the same. She has an uncle with Crohn’s and he is said to be one of the worst cases according to the Mayo Clinic and his doctors.
She has no symptoms what-so-ever, during a CT scan for a kidney/UTI problem they noticed inflamation in her lower bowel. We went to see a gastro. doctor and he says there is not just inflamation but actual thickening of the wall. He suggested a colonoscopy and and an endoscopy, because of the finding and because of the family history (uncle has Crohn’s). He suggested Remicade – I am looking for info on all possible treatments.

A: I am sorry your daughter is being considered for such a problem. If you try this product, just start cautiously. It may work. Try lots of acidophilus, too.

I have had bowel problems and just had to have two colonoscopies within two months.
I had a barium x-ray in between. Due to the nastiness of the barium, I started to make and eat lots of applesauce. The pectin in the applesauce has helped me more than anything. I have tried lots of different fibers and herbs.

Aloe juice is very healing to the bowel. It helps ulcerations to heal and is mildly laxative. Some aloe formulations are very harsh laxatives, so start very slowly, please.

What ever your daughter has going on in there, there will be something to help her. Never let her give up hope!

Q: How come you get bleeding with ulcerative colitis but not with Crohn’s?
I would think that since Crohn’s disease goes through the entire layer of the colon that its would cause more bleeding

A: hi ibad, I am a crohn’s pt. for over 20 yrs. dxed at age 12.

I’ve had bleeding several times over the yrs. in my stomach and large intestines due to the CD flaring. Aspirin and Aleve can cause GI bleeding in IBD patients so we are told to avoid taking anything that is similar to them and just use Tylenol. After my 2 DVT, I tried a coated aspirin tablet to thin out my blood due to clotting, and I even bled out and was hospitalized for it.

Symptoms will vary among those who have UC or CD. To educate yourself better, check out the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation’s site. They have everything from dxing it, how it’s treated with the newer medications, surgery, coping skills, to locating a local support group where you live. There is also a live chat & hotline run by healthcare experts as well as an open forum where you can post this question to others who have IBD. You will get more answers there than here b/c those folks can actually tell you from experience and what they went through.

Definitely check it out. 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: why do some people discrimate againist people with crohn’s/colitis/ibs?
i don’t understand this. people think this is funny. i suffer problems like this and sometimes my friend thinks it is funny.

A: It has to do with their immaturity. For some reason, many people think that bathroom functions are funny and the fact that some people have diseases that cause them pain and diarrhea, makes even more amusing to them. I understand that people who have to wear colostomy bags get this sort of abuse, too. Try to imagine what kinds of names they get called. It’s not pretty.

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: Why should IBS – Colitis – Crohn’s sufferer’s read this?
I’ll answer my own question here as I wasn’t sure how else to get this information out there for everyone to read and judge for themselves.

http://opendiary.com/entrylist.asp?authorcode=A504373

I strongly urge you to read this story. It’s my own battle with severe ulcerative colitis. I’m not a Dr. & I’m not selling anything. This is just valuable information.

I suffered for years and years before making a life or death decision. What I learned saved my life, and if you suffer as I have, hopefully you’ll look into the same answer that I found & start feeling better yourselves.

It’s a miserable illness and there is no official cure. I can tell you this though…I have it as severe as one can, all throughout my large intestine up to the ileium, and today…I can eat ice cream and fruit with the skin on it, and thai food, and so can you. Please read on & get well soon.
Thanks CumQuaT for sharing that. I too have had the ulcers in my mouth, in fact I had those for the first time 2 months before my initial break out of Colitis, but it was passed off from the Dr as stress (considering my life at the time it made perfect sense) He explained the occurrence similar to “hives” (which one can get when extrodinarily stressed.)

This is also why I’m a firm believer that in time Dr’s will come to acknowledge that stress (along with other factors) indeed can “cause” Crohn’s & Colitis…not just cause the relapses.

Deal with the stress factors in your life if you want to help deal with these diseases at least.

As for coffee…well… I’m drinking some now, lol…with cream I might add Carbonated beverages are the only thing I shy away from, not entirely…but mostly.

A: So what’s your question?

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: Crohn’s Ulcerative Colitis problems!!!?
I just got diagnosed with Crohn’s or Ulcerative Colitis, my GI doens’t know yet. I don’t really feel to bad which seems great in comparison to what i’ve heard others say. I have about 4BMs a day, blood isn’t apparent. Many people say to keep a food journal to see what causes pain. What if i don’t have pain!? I guess I have a mild case! So can people give me advice and tell me what works for them or any other good info about Crohn’s Colitis.

A: I got diagnosed three years ago with Crohns disease, I have tried many medications but only one works for me, its saved my life. Its called remicade/inflximab. I am allergic to the others.
I have heard that food affects others however not only do i find this is not the case for me, but i see the flaws in this Research.
Firstly if you cut out dairy (like most say helps), how do you know if your feeling better because of the lack of dairy or because you are in remission? I have heard go vegan, high protein, no dairy, low fibre… but in the end its just like getting advice to go on a diet, everyone swears a different thing is best. LOL
My advice is if you want to pursue the food direction you can, but you need to know what helps you. From what i have read over the years some food help some and hinder others. You’d need to fast and introduce foods one at a time, then cut them out and do others. You might need to do this a few times to bet more conclusive results. I’d see a nutritionist to help you with this so you know that your results are better.
I am part of the crohns and collitus association of Australia. Your probably in America, but i know joining these groups are great. They give you great advice from others, they give information about what helps what doesn’t. new medications and treatments. Updates on research, and what is being done and tested for causes and cures. So much benefit. There are heaps online and they are all really good.

Its not going to be an easy road, and some suffer more than others. You will need to see a gastrologist and have a colonoscopy and/or endoscopy. This will diagnose your disease properly, so you know which one you have and how bad. i am in the top 5% of worst cases for Crohns. Its hard, my job has suffered, i have now developed fistulas which have cased me 6 surgeries and still more to come. Its been painful, tiring, degrading, depressing and costly, but im not giving up. There is always someone in a worst position and you need to remember when things get tough you need to overcome the hurdle. There is a lot of support for you out there and your not alone.

You might be glad to know that some people who are diagnosed with IBD’s get one bad fflareup and go into remission for the rest of their life. others like me, suffer from it almost everyday. everyone differs in medication success, food ssuccess other treatments like aacupuncture Essential oil therapy etc. none of these works for me, but may for you.

Good luck!

Q: Crohn’s Colitis & Pregnancy?
I was officially diagnosed with Crohn’s Colitis on Tuesday, I have a 4 year old daughter and not planning on having any more well I wasn’t but now it just got me thinking maybe one day I might change my mind but don’t know how it will effect things, I talked to my consultant about this and he said as long as i got pregnant while the disease was in remission then it should stay in remission during pregnancy. anyway, has anyone got any experience with this or know someone who has been pregnant with crohn’s?
thank you in advance.xXx
I actually have that website in my bookmarks didn’t know there was a bit on pregnancy.

thank you LAURA T

A: I’ve just been diagnosed with crohns too, i joined the NACC who have just sent me thru a load of info in the disease, there is a section on pregnancy FAQ’s in that. if you look on their website there is also an information sheet that you can download on pregnancy in IBD. www.nacc.org.uk

Q: Can anything besides Crohn’s or Ulcerative Colitis cause bowel inflammation?
I went to the GI doctor recently for abdominal pain, and they did a few tests, and the doctor said that the CT scan showed inflammation of the bowel. I’m wondering if it can just be something benign or if there are other conditions that can cause this other than Crohn’s or colitis?

A: Infection can cause inflammation of the bowel (colitis), diverticulitis causes inflammation in the sigmoid colon (this is more common in older adults).
Did you get a diagnosis? If not ask your doctor what the inflammation means in the context of your case.

Q: Mannapol? Aloe Vera…Crohn’s/Colitis….?
My daughter is being tested for Crohn’s Disease soon and in the meantime we have have been doing some research on different ways to treat symptoms,as there is no known cure in the medical field. It has been suggested thar we try Mannapol and are wondering if anyone has any info regarding Mannapol. It is freeze dried aloe vera and is said to be a cure-all for many disorders……please serious answers only. My daughter is young and we seem to have caught it early but with Crohn’s you never know how it will be as no two people affected the same. She has an uncle with Crohn’s and he is said to be one of the worst cases according to the Mayo Clinic and his doctors.
She has no symptoms what-so-ever, during a CT scan for a kidney/UTI problem they noticed inflamation in her lower bowel. We went to see a gastro. doctor and he says there is not just inflamation but actual thickening of the wall. He suggested a colonoscopy and and an endoscopy, because of the finding and because of the family history (uncle has Crohn’s). He suggested Remicade – I am looking for info on all possible treatments.

A: I am sorry your daughter is being considered for such a problem. If you try this product, just start cautiously. It may work. Try lots of acidophilus, too.

I have had bowel problems and just had to have two colonoscopies within two months.
I had a barium x-ray in between. Due to the nastiness of the barium, I started to make and eat lots of applesauce. The pectin in the applesauce has helped me more than anything. I have tried lots of different fibers and herbs.

Aloe juice is very healing to the bowel. It helps ulcerations to heal and is mildly laxative. Some aloe formulations are very harsh laxatives, so start very slowly, please.

What ever your daughter has going on in there, there will be something to help her. Never let her give up hope!

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: could this be crohn’s/colitis?
my doctor said this was stress. when i was born, i had bowel problems and anal fissures. then as i aged it went away. at 15, they came back. now at 22 it is worse. some other symptoms i have are diaherra, mucous in the stool, blood in and out of the stool. pain in the right lower part of my abdomen is happening. the pain stops when i bend over. i know i have posted this before, but i need some more opinions. i had an endoscopic thing done. i have inflammation of the stomach and lower bowel too. i also have hot flashes.

A: Try these websites for medical information concerning your question.
http://www.revolutionhealth.com/symptom-checker/?s_kwcid=symptoms|855616194 . Mayo symptom checker
http://www.webmd.com has symptom checker
http://www.merck.com/mmhe/index.html
My best,
Hope

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 were your first signs of Crohn’s or Colitis?
I’ve been seeing a Gastro doctor for about 6 months now. I feel like I am on a roller coaster I go a couple weeks where i am fine – no episodes, and then for a week or 2 I can’t keep food in me. I eat and 15 minutes later I have to go to the bathroom. I get dehydrated and Cramping really bad. Recently I have become really depressed, and I hardly eat because I don’t want to get sick. does this sound like you? What were your first signs?

A: Hi Jessie, I am a female crohn’s pt. since the age of 12. My first signs at an early age were fatigue, some blood, the “big D” or “big C”, fever, joint pain. Symptoms will vary in each person though.

As I got older, it got worse–severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting at times, more blood, more D, to the point of living in the bathroom 24/7.

The Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation really helped me out when I needed emergency surgery due to my large colon being overrun by fistulas, abscesses, and inflammation. I was given an ileostomy to save my life and the local support chapter was there so I could meet others who were in similar situations.

If you check out the site, you will find stuff on how it’s dxed, how it’s treated, the latest medications to get it in remission, surgery, women’s issues, to locating a support chapter near you. There is also a live chat and a hotline you can call during the week. Both are run by healthcare experts. Try posting your questions on their open forum seeing as there are many folks with IBD (crohn’s or ulcerative colitis) who can answer your inquiries as they have been in your shoes.

I can relate to being depressed and not wanting to eat due to the pain it causes. Call your GI and get in to see him immediately as you shouldn’t be throwing up constantly. He can give you something for the pain and nausea so you can keep food down.

I wish you the best of health.

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: 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 there anything that I can do to releive cramping pain from Crohn’s & Ulcerative Colitis?
I am 8 weeks pregnant and am taking Pentasa for my diseases. Please help, the pain is so bad that I have to be off work for the next two weeks on bed rest.

A: Try Himalayan Goji Juice. I have a friend in his 60’s that has had Chron’s for years, plus he also has leukemia .
He has tried everything.
He was overdosing on his pain meds and was considering suicide due to the pain. His brother worked with a guy that was a distributor of Himalayan Goji Juice and bought a bottle for him. Immediatley he noticed his pain went away. He has been taking this juice for 4 months now and has reduced his meds to half of what was actually prescribed. He is gaining weight for the first time in years. And he actually goes out now. (Before he was so miserable that he hated to leave his house). He was still taking his meds to control his diarrhea with the Goji and he actually ended up so constipated that he had to go to the hospital to get flushed out. So his doctor was able to pull him off his diarrhea meds for the first time since he was diagnosed. Also, he recently had his blood work done, and the doctor said that he has never seen my friends blood look so good.
Himalayan Goji juice is perfectly safe for pregnant women. In fact, it helps relieve a lot of pregnancy discomforts (i.e. morning sickness).
Here are some links to find out more about Himalayan Goji Juice: www.natureshealthsecret.freelife.com
www.gojihealthstories.com (to read more peoples stories on Chron’s disease)
www.learnaboutwellness.com (to see a video study done by a Johns Hopkins doctor on how goji repairs your blood)
www.pubmed.com (type in Goji’s latin name “lycium barbarum” to see 75 scientific studies proving Goji works)

Q: Info for Crohn’s patients & their family?
The Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of America has a website that you obtain information ranging from the latest treatments, diet, surgery, women’s issues, to locating a local chapter near your town. These support chapters offer educational meetings (drug reps, dieticians, MDs)as well as regular support for pts. & their families led by healthcare professionals.

CCFA also has an online chat M-F as well as a toll free number where you can talk to a healthcare expert well versed in IBD. www.ccfa.org.

You are not alone. I’ve been a crohn’s vetran since the age of 12 & have seen firsthand how their expertise has made it possible for myself as well as countless others learn how to take control of the disease & not let it take controlof us.

Wishing all crohnies a complete remission.

A: I completely agree. I have struggled with Crohn’s disease since age 8. The CCFA (formerly NFIC) has been my best resource for information and networking with patients and physicians for about 25 years. Find a group near you and share your frustrations – AND your joys!

Q: What to name my fundraiser? HELP?
In mid May I’m co-hosting a wine party as a fundraiser and need a name for the event! Please help!
The background: The fundraiser is for the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation of America (CCFA). The hosts names are Alex and Nicole. We are Running the Napa to Sonoma Wine Country Half Marathon with CCFA Team Challenge. The wine party will feature all Texas wines. We are having two live bands play — it will just be a laid back social event.
Any ideas on what we could name the event? I’m running out of time to decide because I need to start posting stuff about the event. ahh! Help please!

if this will help, you can visit www.my13miles.com — its my website and it may give you a better idea about the foundation.

A: will this money go for research programs? if so, how bout Wine for Wisdom?

Q: Masquerade Ball for Charity?
Hey everyone..I’ve had this idea in my head for about 3 years now to plan a masquerade ball benefiting the CCFA (Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation of America) in my neighborhood and now that our junior prom is masquerade themed this year..i have the confidence to pull it off.

Anyway..I need tips. My dream is to have a traditional ball..women wear gowns, men wear tuxes, finger food, open bar, masks off at twelve, out by twelve thirty..all in a room covered in lights and draped in fabric

BUT..I have to think realistically..this would be for high school students in the surrounding area. and out of my own pocket. getting music together and advertising the event would be fairly easy and cheap however i know if i want a cheap place to hold the location..i’d turn to my local Y…which really isn’t the proper esthetic at all..I live in the suburbs of philly so if anyone knows a reasonable place then let me know! but back to the big picture..how do i make it seem so appealing to get people to want to come? granted coming would mean they’d probably have to spend a bit so I have to make it seem really appealing..and also..any tips on how to generally make it seem classier on a budget? and…do you think it’ll be okay to throw the dance in say..the fall/winter when our jr. prom is saturday? in other words..do you think people will still want to come when they just attended something with the same theme?

A: This sounds rather expensive
i would rather go for a 60s theme
it will be much cheaper as you only need a disoc ball

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: What to name my fundraiser? HELP?
In mid May I’m co-hosting a wine party as a fundraiser and need a name for the event! Please help!
The background: The fundraiser is for the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation of America (CCFA). The hosts names are Alex and Nicole. We are Running the Napa to Sonoma Wine Country Half Marathon with CCFA Team Challenge. The wine party will feature all Texas wines. We are having two live bands play — it will just be a laid back social event.
Any ideas on what we could name the event? I’m running out of time to decide because I need to start posting stuff about the event. ahh! Help please!

if this will help, you can visit www.my13miles.com — its my website and it may give you a better idea about the foundation.

A: will this money go for research programs? if so, how bout Wine for Wisdom?

Q: Masquerade Ball for Charity?
Hey everyone..I’ve had this idea in my head for about 3 years now to plan a masquerade ball benefiting the CCFA (Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation of America) in my neighborhood and now that our junior prom is masquerade themed this year..i have the confidence to pull it off.

Anyway..I need tips. My dream is to have a traditional ball..women wear gowns, men wear tuxes, finger food, open bar, masks off at twelve, out by twelve thirty..all in a room covered in lights and draped in fabric

BUT..I have to think realistically..this would be for high school students in the surrounding area. and out of my own pocket. getting music together and advertising the event would be fairly easy and cheap however i know if i want a cheap place to hold the location..i’d turn to my local Y…which really isn’t the proper esthetic at all..I live in the suburbs of philly so if anyone knows a reasonable place then let me know! but back to the big picture..how do i make it seem so appealing to get people to want to come? granted coming would mean they’d probably have to spend a bit so I have to make it seem really appealing..and also..any tips on how to generally make it seem classier on a budget? and…do you think it’ll be okay to throw the dance in say..the fall/winter when our jr. prom is saturday? in other words..do you think people will still want to come when they just attended something with the same theme?

A: This sounds rather expensive
i would rather go for a 60s theme
it will be much cheaper as you only need a disoc ball

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: Is it necessary to stay on a restricted diet forever following an attack of colitis?
I was recently hospitalized due to my very first severe attack with colitis. I have always suffered along with this ailment throughout my childhood and now well into my 50’s. However, it has always subsided with a common sense diet etc but no medication. This time around I could do nothing to stop the pain and even had intestinal bleeding. The doctor released me from the hospital with a very restricted diet. I am on 2 courses of antibiotics and pain killers. I have been home for 3 days and am just beginning to feel better. I have just started eating solids like baby food, jello, toast, cottage cheese etc. Can I ever try chocolate or any of the other foods I so love again? I will be going for a colonoscopy soon and have made an appointment with another doctor. My sons have Crohn’s desease. This seems to run in our family. What else can I expect from this illness?

A: No theories about the causes of ulcerative colitis have been proven. But researchers think the body’s immune system reacts to a virus or bacteria by causing ongoing inflammation in the intestinal wall. Although this is considered to be a problem with your immune system, some doctors think the immune system reaction may be a result, not the cause, of the disease. Ulcerative colitis is not caused by emotional distress or sensitivity to certain foods or food products, but these factors may trigger symptoms in some people.

Q: What helps the symtoms of ulcerative colitis?
Does anyone know if there is a special diet that helps ulcerative colitis? I was thinking of eliminating meat to see if that would help even though people do that for Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis is a little different. Any suggestions would be great!

A: eliminating meat won’t really help much.. the best things to cut out are fried foods, overly processed foods, popcorn, fake sugars, other veggies that will irritate your stomach too. The sugars to completely watch out for are any that end it -itol like sorbitol which is found in many gums. my nutritionist I had said to avoid these because they cause diarrhea which would definitely not help us with UC. I’d also watch dairy intake. I know that I became fairly lactose intolerant with my UC. Organic foods help tremendously as well since they aren’t processed and they are more natural.

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: Does anyone on this site suffer from Crohn’s disease and/or Ulcerative Colitis?
I have crohn’s and ulcerative ileitis and I take Entocort. It is not helping and I want to know if anyone has tried entocort or not and if it worked for them. also, has anyone had a surgery for it? If so, did it help? Is there a particular diet that you follow?

A: I have Crohns and have taken entocort. prendisone does work better but the Entocort has less bad sid effects. I only use the Entocort for flare ups.Mainly I am much better in the past few years since I started on a maintainence med Imuran … I have had 3 bowel resections also. If your onlt taking Entocort thats fine to get the flai up under control but you need to be on a daily med like Imuran or 6-MP.
As to diet everyone is different as to what bothers them find the foods that for you cause problwms and avoid them usually dairy nuts ,salads, spicier foods, new studies have shown that many with crohns do not tolerate sugar very well either so avoid lot of sweet sugary foods.

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: Info for Crohn’s patients & their family?
The Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of America has a website that you obtain information ranging from the latest treatments, diet, surgery, women’s issues, to locating a local chapter near your town. These support chapters offer educational meetings (drug reps, dieticians, MDs)as well as regular support for pts. & their families led by healthcare professionals.

CCFA also has an online chat M-F as well as a toll free number where you can talk to a healthcare expert well versed in IBD. www.ccfa.org.

You are not alone. I’ve been a crohn’s vetran since the age of 12 & have seen firsthand how their expertise has made it possible for myself as well as countless others learn how to take control of the disease & not let it take controlof us.

Wishing all crohnies a complete remission.

A: I completely agree. I have struggled with Crohn’s disease since age 8. The CCFA (formerly NFIC) has been my best resource for information and networking with patients and physicians for about 25 years. Find a group near you and share your frustrations – AND your joys!

Q: Anyone here on the Specific Carbohydrate Diet? What results have you gotten? How long have you been on it?
It’s used for Crohn’s and Ulcerative Colitis
I have Ulcerative Colitis and have been on the diet for 7 weeks and am looking for information regarding how your symptoms responded to being on the diet. Thanks.

A: In the past was on Akins diet which restricts carbohydrates and I lost lots of weight fast but was real shakey and nervous and had to get off. A family member has problems eating yeast products and uses substitutes and is fine as long as she does. If she slacks off she has terrible diahrea…

Q: I’ve become too involved in my research, I think it’s causing me excessive stress?
There’s a part of me that wishes I could undo reading and learning so much. There’s a considerable amount of stress involved in realizing how things work in world issues, science and medicine. Or is that just my personality getting hung-up on negative things? I’m really not sure.

It’s like I’ve entered adulthood a second time with all the additional pressure weighing heavily on me. Did I mention that there is an all-natural substance or special diet which can prevent most chronic illnesses? I’m talking about obsessive compulsive disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, Crohn’s Disease, Ulcerative colitis and other autoimmune disorders like MS? Shoot me an email if you have any questions.
Aha don’t call them ‘conspiracy theories,’ that’s very negative aha.
The people with all of the money will always have their own interests in mind when they tell you anything in society. So they will ignore all-natural and dietary approaches to mental health because they don’t make them any money, etc.

A: Sounds like you are obsessing on this. Get some therapy for balance.

Q: Having Upper GI on Tuesday, would this show one of most of these conditions?
- IBS (Crohn’s Disease or Ulcerative Colitis (sp?)
- Colon Cancer/Polyps
- IBS

I have a feeling this is one of those because I changed my diet slightly. More fruits and veggies, less soda (I’m a Mt. Dew addict, so it was hard). Before I did, I have a sharp stabbing pain, that turned into an on-going (for 1 month now) dull, achy pain in my right and left abdomin. After I changed my diet, it slowly disappeared, but is still there on occassions. When I move for too long or too much, it starts to hurt. It’s worse on my period. I’ve been constipated for awhile, but when I take M.O.M (milk of mag.), I get unconstipated, but it comes back (sometimes in diarrhea form). It tends to hurt under my right rib and worse when I eat foods (every food plus water). I have horrible nausea and never vomitted, but have been on the edge of it. Off and on headaches, weakness and fatigue. I don’t think I left anything out. Ultra-Sound, Urine, and X-Ray’s were fine. What do you think this is?
I’ve already been tested for Celiac Disease and I don’t have it. No Celiac problems. I process gluten just fine.

And you say you work in a Medical Field, but obviously not the right one. Upper GI meaning the Barium X-Ray.

A: No an endoscope of your upper gastrointestinal system will only go as far as the first 1/3 of your small intestines.

You will need a colonoscopy of the bowel and small intestines to see what happening at that end of the gastrointestinal system which is where those diseases you are speaking about occur.

An endoscope will show up gastric ulcers, reflux issues and emptying of stomach problems.

Could be any of those conditions you spoke about and I really think you will get no answer if you just have an upper gastro scoping, you need the lower intestines and bowel viewed as well to get a full picture.

Q: Upper GI on Tuesday, what do you think this is personally?
- IBS (Crohn’s Disease or Ulcerative Colitis (sp?)
- Colon Cancer/Polyps
- IBS

I have a feeling this is one of those because I changed my diet slightly. More fruits and veggies, less soda (I’m a Mt. Dew addict, so it was hard). Before I did, I have a sharp stabbing pain, that turned into an on-going (for 1 month now) dull, achy pain in my right and left abdomin. After I changed my diet, it slowly disappeared, but is still there on occassions. When I move for too long or too much, it starts to hurt. It’s worse on my period. I’ve been constipated for awhile, but when I take M.O.M (milk of mag.), I get unconstipated, but it comes back (sometimes in diarrhea form). It tends to hurt under my right rib and worse when I eat foods (every food plus water). I have horrible nausea and never vomitted, but have been on the edge of it. Off and on headaches, weakness and fatigue. I don’t think I left anything out. Ultra-Sound, Urine, and X-Ray’s were fine. What do you think this is?
No, it’s not Celiac Disease. My gluten processing works fine.

Upper GI as in the Barium X-Ray thing.

BTW, someone please share their experiences with an Upper GI. I’m kinda nervous. Do I just drink the barium stuff and stand or lay on a table for a MRI like thing? Will they do an IV?

A: An upper GI looks at the stomach and the first part of the small intestine. The conditions you are considering would affect lower in the GI tract. Perhaps a small bowel series or lower GI would be more appropriate.

By the way, q127 described the exam very well. You will be moving in different positions, both standing and laying. The radiologist will tell you when to drink, how to move, and when to hold your breath.

Q: some tips on dealing with severe bowel illnesses?
Bottom line is, I suffer from a Bowel illness. The doctors are very tentatively giving it the title of “Severe IBS”. It started 5 years ago, diagnosed with IBS, was never really a major issue besides the fact I had to watch what I ate. Fine. Over the years it’s gotten progressively worse. I’ve played doctors favourite guinea pig for two years now with no signs of slowing down. Good news is my latest Endoscopy’s (one down the throat, one through the bowels) show no signs of Crohn’s disease or colitis. Which is a bitter sweet pill to swallow because I’m happy It’s not either of those two, but would have been satisfied if we could just put a name to it.

Regardless, I’ve tried SO MANY Different diets by doctor has told me to stop for the time being, eat normal food, live normal for a while until he can see me again. Fair enough.. basically my daily routine is I wake up at about 1 PM feeling like someone beat the crap out of me while I slept, I don’t eat breakfast, Don’t eat lunch, I eat a bit of dinner, I take a tablespoon of soluable fibre twice a day, I drink a protein shake every day because My weight tends to drop during my worst times. Then I go to bed. My schedule is completely out of wack, I never know when I’ll be awake or when I’ll be sleeping. It’s bad in the mornings, it’s best late afternoon/evening and it’s bad again during the night. It’s not specific things, it’s just food in general, which is why I don’t eat a lot to begin with.

To top it all off.. I’m 16, Lost a whole semester of school to it last year, had to be homeschooled just to achieve 50’s (i’m usually an 80+ Average). I went back to school this year but again, haven’t been to school in three weeks for the simple fact that I go to school, but end up having to come home sometimes before first period is even over. It’s pathetic. I can’t even go to school. Not to mention I also had to give up my job for it.

and the best my specialist has done in recent months is sent me to a god damned shrink to “manage stress”. And all THAT Did, was stress me out. I manage stress fine, I don’t know how he managed to find a stress shrink as a solution to a bowel disorder but i did what i had to do, and guess what, big suprise here, it didn’t do anything for me.

What else can I do to keep myself up? My spirits at least..

Remember, I’m 5 years into this, unless you have a really experienced suggestion, chances are I’ve tried it, but I appreciate all tips.

People look at me and go “Don’t let it consume you, you should go to school and live a normal life” I’m dead serious when I say it’s physically impossible to attend class in the condition i’m in. I’m not letting it consume me, I really don’t have a say in what it does.

How the hell do I control it, or what can I do to help my body feel normal.

I live my life feeling like crap all the time. The physical exhaustion starts to get to you, so does the depression and many other feelings.

This isn’t just a one dimensional illness, anyone who has suffered from anything remotely close to what I am, knows what I’m talking about.

Anyways, any input is appreciated, thank you.

A: So sorry about what you are going through. I can only point you to where I finally got help after 15+ of suffering from IBS (although not as severe as you I also went to multiple specialists and got poked and scoped and put on worthless diets). www.helpforibs.com (go through the blue links in the text on the first page- read them all to get the whole picture- you probably know a lot of what is there but if you haven’t read her book, I bet there is new info there for you). It also has user forums with great support from people who have the disease as bad as you do and who have turned their lives around (people who had not left the house for years who now can). They are a very supportive group. It also has a recipe board that has helped me as well (inventive ways to make foods safer for IBS patients). Good luck- you can figure this out- but looks like it is on you and not the drs after they rule out the other diseases!!