Colitis FAQ

chrons

admin — Wed, 23 Jun 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Read and learn more about chrons. For more, visit the Colitis website Colitis.PopularThinking.com

Q: Is Chrons any way contagious? Any reason not to make potluk dish or barbequ for folks?
Husband diagnosed with Chrons Disease. Feel like neighbors are possibly worried it is contagious and don’t want him to prepare hot dish or barbeque at pot luck. Need article that clarifies it is non-contagious.

A: Crohns disease is an autoimmune disease. It is not AIDS, ebola, the flu, e-coli, ect. You can’t catch an autoimmune disease. Your neighbors are ignorant fools.

Q: Is there a natural way to cure Chrons disease?
Pardon my misspelling if I did. My mom has Chrons, (Probably had it about 16 years or so, after she had her 2nd child it appeared)

She has been on medicine since. But she still has horrible stomach/back pain, painful bowl movements and inconsistent ones. I dont see her getting any help with the medicine.

I keep telling her to watch her diet, eat vegetarian or raw foods (I’m health concious and a vegetarian) but I think she sees no point. Now she wants to stop her medicine which I at this point this is best, it’s not helping and probably makes her worse.

Is there any sort of natural or herbal remedies she can do?

A: Chrons is one type of inflammatory bowel disease.

Doctors give antibiotics, flammazine, and steroids.
I havent heard any case that patient get well with herbal remedies.

The medical treatment of chrons takes a long while; but sometimes comes to worsts surgical intervention is the last resort.

It takes time and patience before you can see improvement on medical treatment.

Wish all the best to your mom.

Q: If I get married before my fiance is diagnosed with Chrons disease will my insurance still cover her?
I am getting married in April and we just found out that my fiance might have chrons disease. We are affraid that if we wait to get married until April and she is diagnosed before then, we might not be able to add her to my insurance. Does anyone know what the laws are on this? Please HELP!

A: Insurances usually do not cover “preexisting conditions.” However, those conditions must have been diagnosed or at least considered by a doctor (for future testing) before they can be considered preexisting. IF there is no paperwork anywhere on your fiancee regarding her illness or if it has not be definitively diagnosed, your insurance should accept the “after marriage” diagnosis and not consider it a preexisting condition.

I hope that you will find it is not Crohns’ disease and that your fiancee will be okay.

Q: Can u drink while on medication for chrons?
Ive just started medicaton for chrons and i was wondering if ur able to drink on it?
The medication i am having doesnt say that i cant drink?

A: It depends what medicine it is.

If it doesn’t say it on the bottle, it’s probably not a big deal if you have a few.

However, with crohn’s you’re going to want to stay properly hydrated.. and drinking alcohol generally results in dehydration.. or can irritate crohn’s disease (because alcohol tends to irritate the stomach and intestines) in general.

If you do drink, try a full glass of water and crackers/bread with each drink you have. That will help a lot to ward off dehydration and stomach/intestinal irritation from the alcohol.

Q: what do people go to the doctor for when they have chrons disease?
my mom just went to the doctor shes going because she said she has chrons disease. what do they do and how long does it take?

A: Here is a list of sites for more information. Chrons disease is very uncomfortable and can be debilitating if not managed properly. She is being monitored to be sure it doesn’t get worse.

Q: Does anyone who has chrons disease ever feel worthless or like you losing your marbles?
I have had chrons disease for almost a year. I have been on everything from imple anti intiflaitories to infusion treatments. My body isn’t responding to treatment and I seem to be getting worse with the hemerating and cramping….. What in the world do I do now?? I cant’ take the pain or stress. I can’t even work. I feel worthless. Am I the only one???? Please help..

A: hi ben, i am a crohn’s pt. for 28 yrs. I truly understand how you feel as I am in a flare myself. Have you tried Entocort, Humira, Remicade, 6MP, or Imuran? Are you on anything for stomach spasms like Bentyl? For abdominal pain Tylenol 3, Darvocet, or Demerol, etc.

Definitely tell your GI you want something for the spasms and pain. That is what I did. When one treatment failed, I tried something else.

Have you looked into attending a local crohn’s and colitis foundation support group chapter near your? Check out the site, ccfa. It has great stuff ranging from coping skills, diet, surgery, finding a support chapter near you, to learning about the newest apprved treatments. There is also a live chat, a hotline, and an open forum where you can post your questions to others like yourself.

Definitely check out the support meetings. I go to the one near me and I have made many friends who truly understand where I am coming from and can relate to the pain and frustration.

I try to keep myself busy by volunteering, reading, walking, etc. so I don’t dwell on the negative. Easier said than done at times, I know.

I hope you feel better. good luck.

Q: What is the best medicine for Chrons disease?
i have taken this yakult drink that seems to help a lot.

A: i am on 6mp and remicade.. the remicade is what saved my life.. i had 12 surgeries and was just slowly being eaten up by crohns.. then i took a trip out to the cleveland clinic in ohio, 2nd best in the country for treatment of crohns and they said remicade was prolly the best thing… started on it and havn’t had a bad flare in 2 years.. stress still takes its toll, but at least i know i can beat it…. email me if you wanna chat about anything.. i have been there and done it all when it comes to crohns

Q: Will a colon cleansing be bad for someone with Chrons disease?
I was diagnosed with Chrons disease last year and was thinking about doing a colon cleasing. Is this safe to do without seeing a doctor first??

A: You need to find a doctor who practices alternative medicine but who is also an MD to ask this question. Try googling it first, something like “alternative health care practitioners with MD degrees.”

UPDATE:

Peter, I’m sure, realizes that outside the community of conventional practitioners, his answer is controversial. I do agree, however, that colon cleansing wipes out the natural bacterial balance in the colon which is why after a cleansing you have to take a good probiotic with a wide array of strains of beneficial bacteria. It may be contraindicated in Crohn’s sufferers, or it may be the best thing they can do. That’s why you need a medical doctor who also/practices alternative medicine to advise you, and please get first, second and third opinions. Be a partner in your own health decisions.

Q: Why would a doctor put a very pregnant woman on a steroid treatment for her chrons flare ups?
I am not a dr but it just seems overall a bad idea!
I am reading all sorts of side effects and warnings about steriod treatment while pregnant, steriod treatments any time are tough.

A: Well maybe because Crohns disease can not only cause electrolyte imbalance, which could be bad for the fetus, but an advanced case of it can be fatal.

However, I applaud your questioning the prescription, as some doctors tend to over-prescribe, just so their patients won’t feel like the office visit was a wasted trip..

Q: Can i get into any branch of the military with chrons?
hi i have chrons disease and my dream is to go into the military. i have never had any problems with it and feel like i might of been mis-diagnosed. could i get a medical waiver to get in? i have talked to a recruiter and he said its a Disqualifying condition. could i still get into the national guard with a medical waiver?

A: Probably not. Crohn’s disease can flare up at anytime. It is not curable. It can go into remission for years and re-appear very suddenly. Stress often is blamed for flare-ups and what can be more stressful than basic training or a posting to a war zone. Army doctors will probably not take the chance.

Q: I just found out that my good friend has chrons, stage one.What exactly does stage one mean?
What are the stages of Chrons disease?I know that you can not get rid of it right?

A: Chron’s isn’t curable! Please read the link below – Under the heading “General Outlook For Crohn’s Disease” – There is a sentence toward’s the end of the first paragraph that explains that Crohn’s Disease cannot be cured!

Q: What are some ways to deal with Chrons disease?
If anyone on here has it, please help. I’ve had it for about a year now. I’m only sixteen, and it’s starting to affect my schooling.
haha, that was funny, but seriously, never leaving the bathroom is not an option. haha.

A: hi orange I am a female crohn’s pt. for 28 yrs. dxed at the age of 12. I can answer your question seeing as I have been in your shoes dealing w/CD in high school.

Check out the CCFA website. They have information on coping skills for teens, diet, women’s issues, locating a local support chapter, the latest meds, as well having a live chat & hotline run by health care experts well versed in IBD. There is an open forum on the CCFA site where you can post questions to others like yourself. They have information on dealing w/school & Crohn’s plus there are brochures to give to your teachers so they don’t hassle you if you need to leave the classroom. That is what I did when I was in school and it really helped a great deal.

I have learned so much from the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation local chapter when I was first dxed. They have support group meetings and educational meetings to educate pts. and their family/friends.

See if you are a candidate for Entocort (I am on it for several yrs.), 6MP, Imuran, Humira, or Remicade. The newer treatments tend to get a crohnie into remission faster provided they don’t have a reaction to it. Feel free to email me anytime.

I have been where you are & truly relate to keeping up w/school work & trying to stay in remission. FWIW, when I was a senior, I was really sick and needed surgery in April 1986. I came back toward the middle of May and seeing as it was close to exams/graduation the principal told me to not show up for exams (she didn’t want me to relapse and stress out) and just show up for graduation practice. I won an I Dare You award for showing strength in courage in dealing w/my illness and not letting it stop my dreams of going to college. I still did the homework expected of me just because I was fearful of being left back.

With a positive attitude, support from family/friends, as well as the local CCFA, I was able to achieve what I set out to do.

Feel free to email me any time if you have questions.

Q: Taking prednisone for chrons- any way to reduce the puffy face?
I am getting married next month and would really not to look like a puffball- would increasing my water intake help at all?

A: I’m sorry about the facial edema associated with the drug that you HAVE to take for your condition. Really the only honest answer here is going to be that the only way you can reduce your facial swelling is to reduce the prednisone. Which is likely not a possibility under your condition.

Congratulations,

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

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

Good luck and I hope this helps!

Q: Does Chrons disease have a side effect that makes you look young?
I’ve heard this is true but cant find facts anywhere

A: NO

http://digestive.niddk.nih.gov/ddiseases/pubs/crohns_ez/index.htm

inflammatory bowel disease

admin — Wed, 23 Jun 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Read and learn more about inflammatory bowel disease. For more, visit the Colitis website Colitis.PopularThinking.com

Q: What is the best thing to feed a dog diagnosed with inflammatory bowel disease?
What is optimal to feed a dog with inflammatory bowel disease?
Information:
Predisone is given twice a day
Refuses standard solid dog food
Refuses turkey
Refuses rice
Just started eating today after two weeks
Current diet: Chicken

I feel that chicken may not be the best option to feed a dog with this disease. If there are any other options that you believe that my dog will consume, then let me know. Thank you.

A: hi wine, my basset was dx w/colitis a few yrs ago. funny thing is, I have Crohn’s disease, a type of IBD like UC.

I would give him some chicken broth, steamed rice, freeze some gatoraid in cubes and give it to him if he was throwing up. a few cubes at a time until you are sure he can keep it down. They now have G2 which has less sugar. Boiled turkey, boiled ground beef or boiled chicken can be given in small amts. The vet can give you some anti nausea medication for him too.

Baby food in the form of meat or chicken flavor is ok too. I would ask the vet for booklets on it or an instruction sheet on how to treat flares and what to feed your dog. My vet gave me tons of info to read along with pain medication and a muscle relaxer if he had spasms.

Yes, it is hard to watch your 4 legged child w/fur suffer. I can totally relate to what he is going through. Just be sure to call the vet if anything unusual happens. That is what you pay them for.

Your dog will be in my prayers.

Q: what is good to feed a dog that has been diagnosed with inflammatory bowel disease?
What is optimal to feed a dog with inflammatory bowel disease?
Information:
Predisone is given twice a day
Refuses standard solid dog food
Refuses turkey
Refuses rice
Just started eating today after two weeks
Current diet: Chicken

I feel that chicken may not be the best option to feed a dog with this disease. If there are any other options that you believe that my dog will consume, then let me know. Thank you.

A: I’d start looking into a raw diet asap.

Q: Do pre-biotics and probiotics help with inflammatory bowel disease?
I have a condition in my rectum called acute colitis with cryptitis or inflammatory bowel disease. Will prebiotics and probiotics be helpful for this condition? Also, will aloe vera juice help? What alternative treatments are there for inflammatory bowel disease instead of taking prescription drugs?

A: hi cherri, I have inflammatory bowel disease, crohn’s disease for 28 yrs. It is my understanding that aloe vera juice will aggravate the intestines b/c it acts as a laxative. If we are flaring, it worsens the lining of our gut & can cause dehydration. I tried it myself for 90 days and found no benefit, only abdominal pain.

The pre and probiotics are helpful but to get IBD into remission we need to be on maintenance medications such as Llialda for UC, remicade as well and for crohnies, entocort, 6MP, humira, or Imuran.

If you check out the crohn’s and colitis foundation’s site, they have alot of info on what you are looking for. There is also a live chat, a hotline, and an open forum where you can post questions to others like yourself.

There is no cure for crohns and for UC, a total colectomy(removal of large intestines) and permanent ileostomy is a cure b/c then the pt. would be drug and pain free. I’ve had my ileostomy for 23 yrs. because my CD attacked my entire colon and treatments failed.

Definitely look into ccfa’s site. they publish a lot of research reports as well as the latest meds to be approved by the FDA.

good luck to you.

Q: Is there a color ribbon for Inflammatory bowel disease?
My daughter has inflammatory bowel disease and I want to know if there is a ribbon like the pink one for breast cancer and other ribbons. I

A: No, not that I am aware of.

Q: Is anyone familiar with canine IBD inflammatory bowel disease?
My dashund was diagnosed with this disease I am wondering if anyone has any pointers to help give him the best and most comfortable life by treating this disease with diet and meds..Thanks Shannon

A: hi shanney, I have crohn’s disease (IBD in humans) and my bassett hound has colitis.

make sure your dog has regular check ups with the vet. he may need to be on prednisone for short periods of time. be sure he has lots of water to drink, as for diet…when he is flaring try chicken broth, maybe some noodles like in cambell chicken soup, freeze some gatoraid in an ice cube tray and then once it’s frozen, put 1 in his bowl(make sure he licks it til it’s gone–then give him another) and he will get his electrolytes that way, meat flavored baby food (Ike loves it), canned dog food, etc. ask the vet for information on what he can and can’t eat.

I truly feel for your pet as well as mine. Hope he can stay in remission. best of luck to you.

Q: Has anybody gone through inflammatory bowel disease with their cats?
My cat seems happy, she’s13 years old, she vomits and has bloody stools all the time. She will just go anywhere in the house, including my pillow. She will be fine and all of a sudden she’s straining in the middle of the kitchen floor. She’s now starting to urinate too all over my furniture. I don’t know what to do and have taken her to the vets and her blood work and stools are normal. The next step would be to do a biopsy of her colon and I don’t want to spend that kind of money on a 13 year old cat. What can I do?

A: My two-year old Maine C oon has Chrone’s disease, so our problem is the constant defecation. He continually has extremely loose and wet stool. Though he goes in the litter box, there are times that it leaks out uncontrollably, and though it is not his fault, it is a terrible thing to constantly have to clean feces off of furniture, bedding, carpets, and him.

It’s gotten to the point that my father has discussed having him put to sleep, because a) he feels it is too much of a hassle; and b) the poor animal goes so often that he hardly weighs anything. He just cannot keep weight on, even though we keep dry food out constantly and feed him wet food two to three times a day. The only things that we are truly able to do for him is to mix Metamucil into his wet food and keep his rear, legs, and base of the tail shaved so that it is easier to wash him after accidents.

As far as your kitty goes — the only options you truly have are either to have the biopsy done, or to keep her relegated to a single room in your house so that she is not creating a mess throughout the home. She may only be 13, but she may have another 5 or 6 years left in her. Do you feel like she’s part of the family, or simply a cat? If it’s the former, I’d suggest spending the money. If not, you may ultimately need to put her down.

Q: How Can I know if my dog has Irritable Bowel Syndrome or Inflammatory Bowel Disease?
She has diarrhea, and has had it for a long time. she doesn’t have worms or enzyme insuffiecy. And how can I help her? I’ve already tried rice, chicken, keopectate, different kinds of dog food, and yogurt.
I’ve taken her to the vet alot! and have spent alot in tests and medication. the vet says its probably irritable bowel syndrome and that we should be careful about stressing her out, like don’t get her to excited.

A: Take the dog to the vet. Diarrhea continuing for more than about 24 hours should be evaluated. It could be all sorts of things wrong with her, from parasites to food allergies (I know a dog that is allergic to beef, chicken, turkey, duck, rice, wheat, soy, corn, barley and millet), to something even more serious. The only way to tell and to fix the issue is to have your vet examine your dog.

Q: My dog has been diagnosed with Canine Inflammatory Bowel Disease?
any info on this topic will be greatly taken , it all happened over night and she is a very sick girl , I just hope she servives the next few days we miss her so much .

A: You can do more research online and ask your veterinarian more questions… but usually IBD is kept under control by keeping the dog on a dose of steroids to help with the inflammation. This all depends on what kind of state she is in now, but if you can pull through this first stretch, there are ways to keep the disease controlled, although there may be some rough spots along the way. Good luck with everything and I hope she does well.

Q: Inflammatory bowel disease in ocicat?
I have a 13yo. Ocicat that has a genetic inflammatory bowel. Does anyone with experience dealing with this in your cat. What did you do, what foods do you feed, is it under control. I would appreciate your feedback.

A: Hi
You have unfortunately probably been feeding dry foods
You do NOT want to feed the crap the vet sells, That is just asking for more problems
You need to either switch to canned foods with as little in the way of grains as possible or a raw diet where there are no grains at all. If money is a problem, you can feed the gluten free fancy feast. Email me if interested and I will get you the list.
What you also want to do is cut down on the fats

Better though would be a human grade quality canned food like Merrick or wellness
Even better though
Diet seems to play a huge part in most IBD cats, Try feeding a novel protein like rabbit, with no grains, veggies, fruit, beef or fish
For a raw diet which is the best choice, you can buy something like nature’s variety or you can make your own
This site shows you how
http://www.catinfo.org/makingcatfood.htm
Here is a link about ibd
http://www.felineoutreach.org/EducationDetail.asp?cat=IBD
My info comes from working with diabetic cats worldwide and many of them have other issues including ibd. I am giving you info that works

Q: can cats die from inflammatory bowel disease?
if not, does it shorten their lives?

A: IBD is eventually deadly if not taken care of. Years of bad food has caused so many problems for our treasured pets.

Ken is right. Raw food is practically a cure. Ground food is good to start, but I recommend whole prey where possible or raw meaty bones (RMB diet) It does a lot better to clean their teeth and they really enjoy it. Do some research and think how you can do the best for your cat.

Good luck

Q: Is Inflammatory Bowel Disease contagious in from dogs to other dogs?
Thanks

A: only if there is an infectious component, the other dog could then be predisposed to IBD. But no, the disease is not directly contagious.

Q: Can anyone give me Information on Inflammatory Bowel Disease?
Is it Genetic?
What are the symptoms?
What can be taken for it?

Any thing esle would be really helpful. I want to understand it before I go to my Doctors

Thanks

A: www.ccfa.org…should have a ton of information on Crohn’s disease as well as Ulcerative colitis.

Q: Does anyone have any experience with inflammatory bowel disease in their dog?
My dog has a preliminary diagnosis of IBD and is being tested for intestinal lymphosarcoma (cancer) in 3 days. He’s been on prednisone for 3-1/2 days now and I don’t feel he’s getting much better. Any personal stories would be appreciated, good or bad.

A: MMP—-I do not know what to say except that I am sorry your poor dog is not well_I am a dog lover and feel like that are family———hope things go well for you and your pet—
——————Good Luck.

Q: Is crohn disease and inflammatory bowel disease a lifelong disease?
Once you get one of these diseases does it always stay or can go away…pleazz answer and help

A: hi, i am a crohn’s pt. for 28 yrs. This is the most accurate information from the Crohn’s & Colitis website:

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.

Types of Crohn’s Disease and Associated Symptoms

The symptoms and complications of Crohn’s disease differ, depending on what part of the intestinal tract is inflamed. That’s why it is important for you to know which part of your intestine is affected by Crohn’s disease. Your doctor may also refer to your illness by various names based on the principal area involved. The following are five types of Crohn’s disease, together with their presenting symptoms:

Ileocolitis: The most common form of Crohn’s, affecting the ileum and colon. Symptoms include diarrhea and cramping or pain in the right lower part or middle of the abdomen. Often accompanied by significant weight loss.

Ileitis: Affects the ileum. Symptoms same as ileocolitis. Complications may include fistulas or inflammatory abscess in right lower quadrant of abdomen.

Gastroduodenal Crohn’s disease: Affects the stomach and duodenum (the first part of the small intestine). Symptoms include loss of appetite, weight loss, and nausea. Vomiting may indicate that narrowed segments of the bowel are obstructed.

Jejunoileitis: Produces patchy areas of inflammation in the jejunum (upper half of the small intestine. Symptoms include abdominal pain (ranging from mild to intense) and cramps following meals, as well as diarrhea. Fistulas may form.

Crohn’s (granulomatous) colitis: Affects the colon only. Symptoms include diarrhea, rectal bleeding, and disease around the anus (abscess, fistulas, ulcers). Skin lesions and joint pains are more common in this form of Crohn’s than in others.

How is Crohn’s Disease Diagnosed?

There is no single test that can establish the diagnosis of Crohn’s disease with certainty. To determine the diagnosis, physicians evaluate a combination of information from the patient’s history and physical exam. They examine the results of laboratory tests, X-rays, and findings on endoscopy and pathology tests, and exclude other known causes of intestinal inflammation. X-ray tests may include barium studies of the upper and lower GI tract. Endoscopy tests may include flexible sigmoidoscopy and, sometimes, colonoscopy, which allow the doctor to directly examine the colon with a lighted tube that is inserted through the anus. During these tests, biopsies may be obtained. This procedure involves the removal of a small piece of tissue for closer analysis. It is important to make sure that an infection is not causing the patient’s symptoms, so one routine test is to examine the stool for harmful organisms. Because Crohn’s disease often mimics other conditions and symptoms may vary widely, it may take some time to arrive at the correct diagnosis.

CD is not deadly but the side effects of the treatments can affect the liver, pancreas, bloodwork, etc. That is why the GI will run monthly tests to make sure things are ok. There is no cure yet, but the newer treatments–Remicade, Humira, and Encort put the pt. in remission faster.

For more information, check out the sources I provided below. They have a live chat & hotline run by healthcare experts and an open forum where folks with IBD (crohn’s or UC) can post questions to others wh

Q: Inflammatory bowel disease?
My cat has just been diagnosed with inflammatory bowel disease. I’m not very familiar with this in animals but very familiar with it in humans. Has anyone else experienced it and if so what does my cat’s future look like. He has is on medication and his diet has already been changed to a prescription diet.

A: You want to feed quality foods not the prescription diet. Read the label
You have unfortunately probably been feeding dry foods
You need to either switch to canned foods with no grains or as little as possible or a raw diet where there are no grains at all. If money is a problem, you can feed the gluten free fancy feast. Email me if interested and I will get you the list.
What you also want to do is cut down on the fats. ou can o this by ading some c hicken breast to the canned foods

A human grade quality canned food like Merrick or wellness with chicken breast added would be great.
Even better though
Diet plays a huge part in most IBD cats, A novel protein like rabbit,vennison ect with no grains, veggies, fruit, beef or fish may be your best bet
For a raw diet which is the best choice, you can buy something like nature’s variety or you can make your own
These sites shows you how
http://www.catinfo.org/makingcatfood.htm
http://www.catnutrition.org/pictorial.php
Here is a link about ibd
http://www.felineoutreach.org/EducationDetail.asp?cat=IBD
http://www.catnutrition.org/ibd.php
My info comes from working with diabetic cats worldwide and many of them have other issues including ibd. I am giving you info that works

crohns disease

admin — Wed, 23 Jun 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Read and learn more about crohns disease. For more, visit the Colitis website Colitis.PopularThinking.com

Q: crohns disease?
I am in so much pain. I have had numerous precedures done to find out that i had crohns disease. the docters have me on an anti-inflamitory and steriods and ant-acids so they said they may put me on more meds. the pain has only gotten more regular. I just want the pain to go away. they told me to stay away from dairy prducts too. i am just so sad and it hurts so much i am sick of docters and medication. they have me on a total of 98 pills a week. i just need some helpful information that maybe i have over looked

A: I am 37 and diagnosed with crohns when I was 13. It can control your life if you let it but I don’t let it. Like the last person said keep away from seeded items they are the worst. I have recently started remicade and am amazed at the great results I am getting. It is an iv drug you receive once a month. I was in a horrible flare up the last 3 years and was just put on Remicade in January 07 and have no pain or problems for the last two months and have been putting back on the weight I had lost(over 25 pounds). Ask your doctor about it and if he doesn’t want to try it see someone else who will. They give people with rheumatoid arthritis Remicade and they swear by it also, as it is basically a anti-inflammatory. Keep your spirit up and if someone thinks your grumpy, tell them they should try to walk a mile in your shoes, I bet they wouldn’t get around the block. Good luck.

Q: Crohns Disease?
Can anyone tell me a bit about Crohns Disease? My boyfriend was diagnosed with it about 6 years ago and doesnt take any medication for it, just has a healthy diet and seems fine in himself. Also we are trying for a baby and was wondering if the disease could lessen his chances of me conceiving? Honest answers please, thanks x

A: Crohns disease is a malabsorption syndrome affecting the colon and can cause, in the worst cases, a great deal of suffering, and recurrent episodes of hospitalisation.
It has no relation to fertility and there’s no necessary relationship to diet either, contrary to popular belief. Nor is it hereditary in the sense that it is genetically determined. However there is some evidence for the view that some patients are more susceptible to Crohns than others, by virtue of personality characteristics that, arguably, are learned within the family. (The typical sufferer – in the worst case – is young, male and emotionally ‘buttoned up’. For complex psychological and somatic reasons, it is the gut that keeps the ‘emotional score’ in life).
Having a diagnosis 6 years ago may imply some future susceptibility. But its not written in stone, and it is not a life sentence or a permanent disability. (Thankfully, people move on. And, hey! – they get WELL again!).
Technically, anyone who has had symptoms of ‘irritable bowel syndrome’ for 6 months or more, merits a diagnosis of Crohn’s disease. And on a bad day I think that might cover about 15-20% of the UK population. So it pays to take an optimistic view of things in this life and focus on the approach that says that your ‘cup is half full’……
Be happy together.

Q: Crohns disease?
Hi, im just wondering if there is anyone else one here who has Crohn’s disease or knows someone close to them who is suffering from it. I am 13 and was diagnosed with crohns about 6 months ago, a few days before my thirteenth birthday. they diagnosed me with a colonoscopy & i was kept in the hospital for a week.

Also, what foods have you found bother you the most? For me, it seems to be greasy foods like mcdonalds, hamburgers, cheesburgers, hot dogs, seeds, and foods with a lot of fiber in them.
Ohh yeah i was put on a very bland diet for a while too. I had an ng tube and got my food from that, and i couldnt eat for 5 months. Then the put me on the tube for only 3 nights a week and slowly introduced me to bland foods like plain, broiled & boneless chick, white rice, and saltine crackers. I was in remission for about 4 months and now im not anymore, so im back to square one which pretty much sucks. And yeah, i lost a lot of weight because of it & i was underweight for a little but now im back to a normal weight.

A: I was diagnosed with Crohn’s five years ago, just before my 23rd birthday, but had been sick for several years (since middle school) before my colon finally perforated and the docs figured out what was wrong with me. I’ve spent lots (months and months) of time in the hospital and had several operations since my diagnosis and also did the NG tube thing for awhile, too. My Crohn’s affects my entire digestive tract and even the NG tube got a veto from my intestines this time around, so I’ve been on TPN (i.v. nutrition) constantly since January 2007, but also off and on the past few years. I understand the bland diet and how frustrating it is to keep starting over when you thought you had figured out the perfect diet or when you were excited to be eating “normal” foods again.

It sounds like you have taken time to really get to know about your disease and you seem to have a good handle on foods you can eat or not eat, but here’s some things that have worked for me in the past. Remember, everybody’s disease is different and you have to figure out what works for you:

When you’re sticking to liquids, I recommend Slim Fast – that sounds strange, but Slim Fast has about the same amount of fat and calories as Ensure or Boost and tastes much better. Some of the kids’ nutritional supplement drinks don’t taste too bad, either. And, if you can tolerate Boost or Ensure (yuck from me!!), go for it!! Gerber (yes, as in the baby food company) has a powdered electrolyte supplement you can add to your water bottle which tastes better than Pedialyte; it’s called LiquiLytes instant mix – I’m a fan of the apple and mixed fruit flavors. Other things to try to keep your nutritional status up are breakfast shakes (I buy the Walmart generic version, but think Nestle breakfast shakes type of product), milkshakes (if you can tolerate dairy products at all – great source of calories), and lots of beef/chicken broths. When I can handle something in my chicken broth, I find that the Campbell’s Chicken & Stars doesn’t cause as much cramping for me as the regular Chicken Noodle soup – probably because the noodles and meat chunks are much smaller. As I gradually add more bulky foods to my diet, I eat things like baby foods – the boxed powdered rice or mixed grain cereals are a great place to start and then I work up to some of the bottled custards and baby food dessert items. Remember that baby foods with meat and vegetables are still meat and vegetables and your intestines will not be fooled by the consistency! Once my diarrhea gets better or more under control, I try adding in things like oatmeal (think runny consistency), scrambled eggs (very bland), and similar items. Applesauce and jello (and saltines if you’re up for any solids at all) are always faithful standbys through any flare, but I personally can’t stand the sight of jello after awhile – luckily, there’s lots of flavor choices to keep some excitement in your bland diet life!

Crohn’s is rough, but we’re lucky (maybe not the best word?) to have it at a time when there’s lots of information and support available on the internet. There’s also lots of books with great information and I second (or third or fourth) the recommendation to connect with the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation of America. They have lots of great information and are a good link to support groups and other info. There was a very good link for teens (at least there was last spring when I last looked) on the CCFA website.

I’m a high school teacher, but I’ve taught middle school the past 4 years, and several students in my schools have been diagnosed with Crohn’s and the teachers have been wonderful. It’s been my experience that they (the teachers) may not know a lot about the disease, but most of the teachers immediately came to me to get as much information as they could and wanted to know everything I thought they could do to assist the students with Crohn’s. Even though it’s a yucky disease to discuss, don’t be afraid to answer questions your teachers ask, especially about how they can help (take those offers to use the bathroom whenever you need without asking and know that, even if you don’t right now, you’ll need them at some point). You don’t have to share all the gory details, but don’t be afraid to answer questions about Crohn’s, and specifically, about your Crohn’s (because it’s different for every single person).

I hope your Crohn’s decides to give you a break for awhile, but if it doesn’t (or even if it does), feel free to email me with any questions or to ask about anything you’d like to know. Hang in there! (I know, I hate it when people say that to me, too!)

Q: Crohns Disease is the Anal Gas Infestious Like a cough to People ?
A new friend , has Crohns Disease and has gas that’s really terrible ,is that gas? have a communicable infectious Disease that can spread to innocent bystanders ?
The smell hurt my nose and now i have a sore throat.

A: nope just unpleasant – my dog just farted and is now wafting it around with his tail

Q: What are the chances of getting the crohns disease?
Okay so my dads mom has the crohns disease and my mom has the crohns disease…what are the chances of me getting the crohns disease?

A: Funny thing about these inflammatory bowel diseases is that having a family history does increase your risks of getting the disease, but it’s not a very clear cut history. You do have an increased risk of getting it, but ironically enough, you also have an increased risk of developing ulcerative colitis, despite being a different condition.

Q: What are the symptoms of Crohns disease?
I was diagnosed 6 months ago with Crohns Disease. By the time of my diagnosis, my colon had already abscessed and perforated and I had to have surgery to remove 3 feet of my colon. What symptoms should I keep an eye out for in order to prevent this from going so far again?

A: Go to webmed.com there is all the info you need .Great site .

Q: What is the best Crohns disease medication?
My Cousin has crohns and just found out he is 30 years old and they are having trouble finding a good medication to treat it nothing seems to be working. we are all very worried about him. Please help and if you have crohns or know about it any advise on dealing with crohns disease would be greatly appreciated.Thank you for your time.

A: Depending on where their crohn’s is most active there are a few drugs to try.

sulfasalazine is a good choice if it is mostly the colon that is affected since it would localize the treatment effects to the colon… however, this is seldom all-inclusive w/ crohn’s.

infliximab is a good choice because it doesn’t have the bone marrow suppression side effects of methotrexate or azathioprine; however, it is REALLY expensive ($20,000/year).

There are lots of drug choices out there, but all are likely going to come with some pretty significant side effects. Drugs that slow cell proliferation (chiefly immune cells) and thus stop the inflammatory effects of the disease will suppress the immune response. Antibodies like infliximab will also block some immune function and leave the patient open to some infections.

I hope this helps. In the end, I hope you find a combination of drugs that works for them.

Q: Can walking pneumonia make somebody with Crohns disease die?
My grandmother who is 63 has had Crohns disease for about 30 years but is in relatively good health otherwise. She just caught walking pneumonia and I am terrified this will cause her Crohns to get worse and kill her. Any insight on this would be greatly appreciated.

A: No she shouldn’t die from it. I’ve had crohn’s for 21 years & i’ve had bronchitis before & it never affected my crohn’s. Walking pneumonia is a very mild form of pneumonia so your grandma should be fine.

Q: I have Crohns Disease and would like to diet. Does anyone have any diet plans specifically for this?
I have Crohns Disease and seem to have put on about 4 stone due to having to take steriods on and off. I would like to diet but find that alot of diet plans focus mainly on fibre related products which I can’t eat. Can anyone help, please?

A: Cant help, but my advice would be to see your doctor and ask for a referral to a dietician.

The treatment for Crohns causes other health issues (like wiight), and these should also be addressed as part of the treatment.

Q: Why is alchohol bad for people with Crohns disease?
I have Crohns disease and always wondered why alchohol is bad for me. Whenever I drink, I get sick but I want to know why I get sick.

A: hi, as a fellow crohnie since the age of 12 I can tell you this: some of the medications used to treat this disease affects the liver. Mix alchohol with these medications & you are asking for trouble. Alchohol is known to irritate the gut thus, that is why it’s making you sick.

Ask your GI if you should be drinking & what meds don’t mix w/it. Also, check out the crohns & colitis foundation site. They have loads of information esp. on diet, meds, exercise, dating, women’s issues, surgery, plus you can even locate a local support chapter where you are so you can meet others like yourself.

Seriously, is it really worth all that pain and misery just to fit in or ease the pain?? Life is too short & dealing with this disease is a pain in the butt. (no pun intended)

Q: Is it safe to have a baby with somebody who has Crohns disease?
My boyfriend and I have been together for 3 years and were thinking about trying for a baby. Does it matter that he has Crohns Disease? Can my baby get that?

A: Well genetics only explains part of the problem. People with Crohn’s are 10-20% likely to have a parent, brother, sister, or child who has it as well. There is a gene that has been linked to the disease, and it affects how the body reacts to certain microbes. There are also environmental and immune system influences, and nobody really knows the extent those play. Given the variability in how it affects people, and the 80-90% chance the child will not inherit a defective gene- if your boyfriend carries it – I would say the odds are highly in favor of a healthy baby. But if it really worries you, then you might consider genetic testing and counselling first, and then try to decide.

Q: can i get my crohns disease waived for the marines?
I have had crohns disease for about 5 years now I’m almost 17 and i haven’t had a flare up in 5 years or any type of pain i never take my meds. Can i get a wavier for the marines?

A: I doubt it, but you could ask at any recruiting site.

I don’t think they would look fondly on a Marine who suddenly had a flair up (after years without one) in the midst of his first real battle.

Q: If you have Crohns disease do you have to pay for prescriptions?
I have been told that there is a strong chance I have got Crohn’s disease and going for cam up for the third time in a couple of days. If it is confirmed I was wondering if I have to pay the prescription charges. My friend has Crohns and has lots of medication and will do for the rest of her life. I know she gets them free but not sure if all crohns disease sufferers do? Many thanks
sorry forgot to add im in uk

A: Chrohn’s disease is not included in the list of conditions that are granted exemption from prescription charges.

( These are ermanent fistulas (caecostomy, colostomy, laryngostomy etc), Diabetes, Hypoparathyroidism, Myasthenia gravis, Myxoedema, Epilepsy, requiring continuous anti-convulsive therapy, Physical disabilities hampering mobility)

The best option is a yearly prepayment certificate.

Q: is crohns disease a disease of the urinary system?
I know that crohns affects the digestive system but is it a disease of the urinary system.

A: no crohns disease does not effect the urinary system. i know because i had crohns disease and serious food alergies. i over came it with hard core meditation and prayer to god.

why do you ask?

and listen to francy, she explains it

Q: How do i tell my girlfriend I have crohns disease?
my girlfriend and I have been completely honest with each other but i just found out i have crohns disease and i dont know how shes going to take it

A: can you die from that disease or something.?
or will it affect your sexual relationship.?
it is just best to be honest with her.
since you have been doing that all along, it shouldn’t be that hard.
i mean, after all, it’s not something you can decide if you want it or not.

crohns

admin — Wed, 23 Jun 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Read and learn more about crohns. For more, visit the Colitis website Colitis.PopularThinking.com

Q: How does my Crohns affect my odds with the swine flu?
I have crohns disease and I’m Worried with the upcoming flu season, and how it could affect my health. I am currently on 6-MP or mercaputorinethol, which is an Immuno Suppresant…I wonder if I should stop taking this.

A: Do not stop taking your medicine! Just because you are taking an immune suppressant medication, doesn’t always mean your odds of getting ill are higher. It depends on the individual person.
My husband also has Crohn’s Disease and he has been taking Humira injections for many years. He hasn’t been sick once, even during the flu season.
Never stop a medication unless your doctor recommends it. Good luck!

A: nope just unpleasant – my dog just farted and is now wafting it around with his tail

Q: What diet does a person with Crohns disease have to follow?
My brother was just diagnosed with Crohns on Thursday, but can not get into the doctor or nutritionist for a week and a half. What are the diet guidelines that he should be following until he can get into the doctor so he wont be aggravating it?
Also… my brother is only 32, is that young for a diagnosis like this?

A: My mom and aunt have crohns and each have a list of different foods they have to avoid- its an individual tollerance thing- but i did look it up and heres a link to check out that should help-

http://www.webmd.com/ibd-crohns-disease/crohns-guide/crohns-ibd-overview-facts

If he’s been sick long enough to have crohns he should have a pretty good idea himself what he should stay away from-

best of luck – and crohns can happen at any age

Q: What are the chances of getting the crohns disease?
Okay so my dads mom has the crohns disease and my mom has the crohns disease…what are the chances of me getting the crohns disease?

A: Go to webmed.com there is all the info you need .Great site .

A: Depending on where their crohn’s is most active there are a few drugs to try.

sulfasalazine is a good choice if it is mostly the colon that is affected since it would localize the treatment effects to the colon… however, this is seldom all-inclusive w/ crohn’s.

infliximab is a good choice because it doesn’t have the bone marrow suppression side effects of methotrexate or azathioprine; however, it is REALLY expensive ($20,000/year).

I hope this helps. In the end, I hope you find a combination of drugs that works for them.

Q: Crohns Disease Suffers- Do you know about Sorbitol hurting or Acidolphillus helping?
Sorbitol is an artifical sweetner very widely used – marketed as a “natural product” comes from Tree Bark- I found it to extremely quickly aggrivate my crohns symptioms
Acidolphillus is a natural enzyme which can help Crohns suffers digest their food better-
I am wondering if most people with Crohns are familiar with these additives?

A: hi david, I am a crohn’s survivor diagnosed at the age of 12. I learned that sugar substitutes like sorbitol, nutrasweet, sweet n low, etc. have been known to cause the big “D” in crohnies as well as headaches. A dietician at one of the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of America educational meeting was telling us about it and to avoid it b/c it aggravates the disease. She also mentioned that acidolphillus in yogurt will assist in digestion.

For more information check out their site for more updated topics. they have a live chat & hotline that is run by healthcare professionals M-F 9 am – 5pm (EST).

Q: Will my son have crohns if the father does?
I want to know that if i ever have a child with my current boyfriend, if the child will have crohns disease. My boyfriend has it and i do not.

A: While Crohns is hereditary..many that have Crohns has no family history. There is no yes or no answer to this question since doctors do not know for sure what even causing Crohns.

A: Cant help, but my advice would be to see your doctor and ask for a referral to a dietician.

The treatment for Crohns causes other health issues (like wiight), and these should also be addressed as part of the treatment.

Q: Why is alchohol bad for people with Crohns disease?
I have Crohns disease and always wondered why alchohol is bad for me. Whenever I drink, I get sick but I want to know why I get sick.

Seriously, is it really worth all that pain and misery just to fit in or ease the pain?? Life is too short & dealing with this disease is a pain in the butt. (no pun intended)

Q: So my friend was just diagnosed with Crohns disease?
They thought she had appendicitis and the removed her appendix. Now they found out she really has crohns..What does this mean? From personal experience preffereably! Not websites.
She is 15, 5′4″ and 95 if that helps at all!

A: Hi, im 24 M. I have crohns disease. For some this disease can be terrible and painful for others it can be a random issue. Crohns is basically a bad intestine..which can lead to nutritional deficiency (maybe make her shor, like me)… What does this mean…well if she catches it early and eats right possibly nothing. On the bad side she could have horrible stomach aches, kidney stones, and IBS (irritable bowel syndrome)……….I personally had 6 inches of my intestine removed because it got so swollen food couldn’t pass…i didn’t eat for two weak drank tons of ensure just to get enough calories to stay alive… After surgery I feel great a whole new lease on life!!!!! the only downfall i have IBS and have to go to the bathroom (diaria) at least 4 times a day… sucks when you have a GF and have to use her bathroom super embarrassing…..best of luck to your friend..friends are awesome when your going through ruff stuff so be there for her…

A: I doubt it, but you could ask at any recruiting site.

I don’t think they would look fondly on a Marine who suddenly had a flair up (after years without one) in the midst of his first real battle.

A: Chrohn’s disease is not included in the list of conditions that are granted exemption from prescription charges.

The best option is a yearly prepayment certificate.

ulcerative colitis

admin — Wed, 23 Jun 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Read and learn more about ulcerative colitis. For more, visit the Colitis website Colitis.PopularThinking.com

Q: Ulcerative Colitis?
I have been diagnosed with ulcerative colitis since 2002 and have been taking 6 Asacol a day and sometimes tapering dose of steroids (prednisone) when I have flare ups. I have been reading online about the bad effects of long term use of steroids. I know a few people who have taken steroids for long periods of time. I was wondering if there is any one out there who takes steroids (prednisone and such) as part of their ongoing daily treatment. Please share any experience that you might have.

A: Hi! I was diagnosed with crohns disease 2 1/2 years ago. I am currently taking steroids too, and actually just had to go up with the dose the other day as the tapering started to affect me. i hate being on them as I get a humungous appetite, and my face goes soooooo round i look like a balloon!!! On the same note, I dont have so many effects of my crohns when i am on them. We can never win! when i was first diagnosed, i was taking steroids for a year. So far, even after long term use, i havent had any real bad side effects, my bone density is still ok. the only thing i can really complain about is my weight issue now, but im working on that. Sorry if i havent helped much, but sometimes its nice to just hear from people who share similar experiences. Email me if you want to chat about anything else
bianca.zeni@yahoo.com.au

Cya!!!! xxxxxxxx Bianca

Q: Ulcerative colitis?
My son has just been diagnosed with ulcerative colitis. Has anyone any tips on how to keep it under control? Thanks.

A: Hello,

(ANS) You have come to the right person, please see my website on proctitis & ulcerative colitis. If you have any questions after seeing the site please email me.

http://www.proctitispages.co.uk

Kind Regards from Ivan

Q: ulcerative colitis?
What is Ulcerative Colitis, Looking for Cure.

A: Hi Rajesh

You can heal the condition with the following ideas. Learn about juice fasting/ detoxification and be sure to do a colon and liver cleanse to clean out the toxins in the blood for long term health.

Causes
Colitis 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.

Pharmaceutical Drugs: The following drugs can all cause and exacerbate various gastrointestinal disorders, including colitis: 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 Colitis

1. 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. At least a gallon a day

4. Try the herbal remedy Robert’s Formula.

5. Soothing baths two to five nights a week, as well as sitz baths, and alternating hot and cold water packs placed over the abdomen.

6. Aloe juice; wheatgrass juice; cabbage, papaya, and carrot juice. Avoid all citrus juices.

7. If you smoke, stop. In addition, learn how to effectively cope with and manage stress. Exercise regularly.

8. Replace aspirin or other NSAIDs with safer, more effective natural remedies.

9. Supplement with a multivitamin/multimineral formula and essential fatty acids, especial omega-3 oils.

10. Examine the possibility of withheld emotions as the cause of your symptoms and get support through emotional and physical expression, especially movement therapies such as Qi gong, Yoga or deeper expressive therapies, such as Total Integration release work.

Best of health to you

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

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

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

I hope this helps you!! )

Q: What supplement cures ulcerative colitis the fastest?
I have ordered things like Digesticure and Aloe Elite and I know there are others. I’m just wondering which supposedly cures ulcerative colitis (or digestive diseases) in the shortest amount of time?
Try digestiqure.com if you’re wondering about a cure for UC/Crohns. thats what I am hoping will heal me after I get my current flare under control.

A: I suggest reading the book patient heal thyself

top one

http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_ss_b?url=search-alias%3Dstripbooks&field-keywords=patient+heal+thyself&x=0&y=0

the authors healed himself of chrohn and went to dozens of doctors in many countries and spent tens of thousands of dollars trying to heal himself. His dad was even a naturopath…eventually he healed himself and the book tells how and you can see his before and after pictures here

My other suggestion is to do the full incurables save your life program by Dr Richard Schulz which had success. People with digestive ailments like crohn’s and colitis omit the intestinal cleanse #1 and go straight to the intestinal cleanse #2 when doing the full incurables.

Email me and I will send you the links to the manual and 12 videos that detail so much. they are no longer in print and originally cost $435 dollars. Someone put them up for me to refer sick people too but I do not publicly post the link due to the interviewer of Schulze sending cease and desist letter to people getting them removed as he no longer makes money on it I guess so email me this. There is no easy cure for incurable illnesses..a simple supplement will not generally help most people but a comprehensive, lifestyle change will and then some

crohn

admin — Wed, 23 Jun 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Read and learn more about crohn. For more, visit the Colitis website Colitis.PopularThinking.com

Q: What is the typical length of a hospital stay when being tested for Crohn’s disease?
My boyfriend was put in the hospital on Thursday, and he says the doctors want to test him for Crohn’s disease. The thing is though, it doesnt seem like their really doing anything. He says they want him to stay there till the gastroenterologist sees him and does tests, but he hasnt seen the gastroeinterolist yet, and basically he’s just sitting there in the hospital WAITING. He also doesnt even feel sick at all anymore, hasnt since yesterday. How long does it typically take to be tested for Crohn’s disease, and how long should he be in the hospital for?

A: It depends on the doctor. The hospital cannot do anything without the doctor. The tests themselves
are often done on an out patient basis. They maybe trying to regulate his diet in the hospital.

Q: What are the benefits and drawbacks of homeopathic medicine for Crohn’s disease?
My daughter was recently diagnosed with Crohn’s. She is experiencing some pain in her gut, gets tired and sometimes has joint pain.

A: My son was diagnosis with Crohn’s disease over 2 years ago. the doctor wanted to put him on Humira (after experimenting with several other drugs) which is anexpensive drug with life threating serious side affects. We did some research and wanted to take a new approach to combat His problem. This is what we found out. The liver is producing too much bile that is toxic to the digestive tract. The types of foods you need to eat are those that DO NOT create excessive acid or bile that help in digestion (simply put). The bile is normal unless it is in large quanity or toxic, the acid attacks the food as well as intestinal linings of your stomach
Your body is high in toxins that you need to remove and stop feeding into the problem by the foods you consume and an overactive liver.

1.) “Foods to eat” : water purified, fish, eggs, potatoes,rice, white bread,meat ground up fine or chewed well, skinless chicken cut fine, tortillas, broth, noodles plain with a little butter, plain yogurt with no extra ingredients, Goats milk or rice milk(rice dreams-Walmart) cherrios rice crispies or chex, plain oatmeal and ‘most important’ 5x/day at each meal and as a snack, legume’s black beans, kidney, pinto, buttered,refried, with no lard or spices except salt to start. Sunshine calcium and D’3, Iron supplements(in moderation)
if you are anemic.
2.) “Foods to avoid!”: fruit juice,dairy!,milk (hardest to digest, a cow use 4 stomachs!) chips!,processed foods of any kind, fast food of any kind, soda ,msg,sugar,corn, corn syrup,corn sweeteners,wheat products,sweeteners of any kind, coffee, teas,sauces, read the back labels (you are going to be surprised) for added ingredients any thing thats added, adds to your body’s toxic level. NO artificial sweeteners. foods that produce too much acid to break down the foods you eat. No alcohol of any kind NO Tabacco. pork, fatty foods.
3.) ‘Foods to eat’: in moderation after you stop bleeding and start gaining weight or are having no discomfort : certain fruits,steak,venison, peanut butter or almond butter, more plain oatmeal A multi-vitamin with minerals with 100% RDA (not large dose’s of any vitamins and 2x daily ,use shaklee as the bench mark for comparison ) of all of the B’s, hard cheese, soy milk,well cooked vegetables” Psyillium powder”.
4.)The beans,psyillium powder and oatmeal are a soluble fiber that absorb bile and remove the toxins in your body,then the liver will produce more bile but less toxic(simplified for lack of space).
5.)This is not an all inclusive list and your Doctor will disagree with the elimination of drugs, all removal of drugs should be done slowly if you decide to stop taking them, but they will add to your body’s toxic level as you continue take them. which will make your Crohn’s worse and make you susceptible to other more serious disease’s. I am not a specialist in any field or giving medical advice. I also hired KarenHurd.com at a fraction of the cost to teach my son to diet properly but you can go to her web site and get free information, but I recommend you pay her for a short time to get you healthy and on a routine faster. She has a very high success rate. Stress will make it worst so exercise and relax. Most importantly Faith, Hope, and Prayer, you will get better. God is faithful what ever the results. E-mail me if you have any questions and I can help. I don’t know if you have crohn’s but changing your diet could help you and most of us in America because of the poor nutrition we unknowingly subject ourselves too. Ibs and colitis is similar but the diet still apply’s. Routine and a little bit of self disipline and you will be drug free and have more money in the pocket. You may have other complications with the Crohn’s because you are now susceptible to all kind of complication’s and other disease’s because of the medicine you take!

Q: What is the link between Appendicitis and Crohn’s Disease?
Hi. I hear there is a link between Appendicitis and Crohn’s Disease? How true is this? I suffered an appendicitis a week ago, and still recovering and am beginning to wonder if it could be Crohn’s disease. My doc said the appendicitis cause inflammation of my cecum too. Any medical advice out there?

A: Your appendix is part of the lymphatic system and crohn’s disease is primarily due to parasites in the intestines due to dysbiosis. The human pathogens found in pasteurized milk from grain fed cows you buy in the store has about 2 – 3% of these human pathogens that survive the heat process. The altered calcium and damaged proteins from pasteurization along with the highly inflammatory milk as a result of feeding the cows grains is a big factor as well. 92% of all crohn’s disease patients have this bacteria in their intestines.

If you look at the pathetic products manufacturers are making for crohn’s patients, it is no wonder this is a chronic illness that requires a life time of drug use to treat the symptoms. Cleaning up the intestines, removing the parasites, getting on a good nutritional diet, and making the digestive system work like it should is the answer, not drugs or surgery.

An inflamed appendix is just that, it is an inflamed body part. Most likely it is inflamed for the same reasons crohn’s disease is there, but is not the cause of crohn’s. The lymphatic system, that the appendix is part of, can be clogged and bogged down with dead cancer cells, debris that the body is trying to eliminate. The lymphatic system has NO pump like the circulatory system does (the heart), so it relies on exercise and movement to help the lymph flow along. You can also take herbs like devil’s claw or cat’s claw to help lymphatic movement.

The medical advice for crohn’s is not good and that should be obvious because they can never seem to help anyone get rid of the disease, just treat the symptoms.

good luck 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: What is the worst that can happen if you have Crohn’s disease and take senna?
Senna in laxative form, that is.
I see warnings that say do not take senna if you have Crohn’s disease, but I would like to know what can happen, worst case scenario.

Would appreciate advice from a doctor especially.

Thank you for your time.

A: Not a Doc, just another Crohn’s patient. Senna can aggravate and/or cause serious flare ups with Crohn’s. I’d stay away from it. Doesn’t sound like anything I’d want to chance.

Q: Is the pain caused by Crohn’s disease and endometriosis enough to justify morphine daily?
This girl I know in her early 20’s has morphine every day. We fear she is addicted. She always looks and sounds strung out, she doesn’t work and is mentally unstable. It seems like overkill to me – I know there are things that can be done for endometriosis, but what about Crohn’s? What do you think?

A: hi, I am a crohn’s pt. for 28 yrs. Some crohn’s pt. are in severe pain almost daily because the newer treatments just don’t work for them so they go under a doctor’s care for pain management.

Before you judge this poor girl, she may be suffering w/abdominal pain, fatigue, bleeding, the big “D” or “C”. You just don’t know unless you’ve been in her shoes.

Check out the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation’s site to educate yourself. There is also a live chat & hotline run by healthcare experts who can answer your questions as well as an open forum where you can post this question to others who have IBD (crohn’s or ulcerative colitis).

Don’t judge a book by its cover. I know many folks w/Crohn’s who are on pain management medications because they are not able to take the newer treatments. Check out the CCFA site and EDUCATE YOURSELF. If things get worse for your friend, then yes, definitely step in and talk to her family into getting her help.

It’s nice to know that some people actually care when a friend isn’t well.

Q: What are some alternatives to Prednisone for Crohn’s Disease?
After having abdominal pain for some time and recent blood in my stool I had a colonoscopy and endoscopy yesterday. The doctor believes I have Crohn’s disease and has prescribed Prednisone. After reading about this drug I do not want to take it, what are some alternative treatments I can ask about?

A: I am so sorry about your diagosis. The side effects of long term prednisone use are serious. You doctor is going to keep you on prednisone for a short period of time. There are several other treatment options available for crohn’s disease, which have minimum side effects. Hopefully you will be in remission in short period of time. Next time you visit you doctor discuss the following options with him/her.

Treatment Options:

Anti-Inflammation Drugs. Most people are first treated with drugs containing mesalamine, a substance that helps control inflammation. Sulfasalazine is the most commonly used of these drugs. Patients who do not benefit from it or who cannot tolerate it may be put on other mesalamine-containing drugs, generally known as 5-ASA agents, such as Asacol, Dipentum, or Pentasa. Possible side effects of mesalamine-containing drugs include nausea, vomiting, heartburn, diarrhea, and headache.

Cortisone or Steroids. Cortisone drugs and steroids—called corticosteriods—provide very effective results. Prednisone is a common generic name of one of the drugs in this group of medications. In the beginning, when the disease it at its worst, prednisone is usually prescribed in a large dose. The dosage is then lowered once symptoms have been controlled. These drugs can cause serious side effects, including greater susceptibility to infection.

Immune System Suppressors. Drugs that suppress the immune system are also used to treat Crohn’s disease. Most commonly prescribed are 6-mercaptopurine or a related drug, azathioprine. Immunosuppressive agents work by blocking the immune reaction that contributes to inflammation. These drugs may cause side effects like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea and may lower a person’s resistance to infection. When patients are treated with a combination of corticosteroids and immunosuppressive drugs, the dose of corticosteroids may eventually be lowered. Some studies suggest that immunosuppressive drugs may enhance the effectiveness of corticosteroids.

Infliximab (Remicade). This drug is the first of a group of medications that blocks the body’s inflammation response. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved the drug for the treatment of moderate to severe Crohn’s disease that does not respond to standard therapies (mesalamine substances, corticosteroids, immunosuppressive agents) and for the treatment of open, draining fistulas. Infliximab, the first treatment approved specifically for Crohn’s disease is a TNF substance. Additional research will need to be done in order to fully understand the range of treatments Remicade may offer to help people with Crohn’s disease.

Antibiotics. Antibiotics are used to treat bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine caused by stricture, fistulas, or prior surgery. For this common problem, the doctor may prescribe one or more of the following antibiotics: ampicillin, sulfonamide, cephalosporin, tetracycline, or metronidazole.

Anti-Diarrheal and Fluid Replacements. Diarrhea and crampy abdominal pain are often relieved when the inflammation subsides, but additional medication may also be necessary. Several antidiarrheal agents could be used, including diphenoxylate, loperamide, and codeine. Patients who are dehydrated because of diarrhea will be treated with fluids and electrolytes.

Nutrition Supplementation

The doctor may recommend nutritional supplements, especially for children whose growth has been slowed. Special high-calorie liquid formulas are sometimes used for this purpose. A small number of patients may need to be fed intravenously for a brief time through a small tube inserted into the vein of the arm. This procedure can help patients who need extra nutrition temporarily, those whose intestines need to rest, or those whose intestines cannot absorb enough nutrition from food. There are no known foods that cause Crohn’s disease. However, when people are suffering a flare in disease, foods such as bulky grains, hot spices, alcohol, and milk products may increase diarrhea and cramping.

A: D.

Q: Once a person begins having Remicade infusions for Crohn’s Disease, will they ever be able to stop?
Do Crohn’s patients have to take Remicade indefinitely, in order to stay in remission? If Remicade does need to be discontinued, how is that done? Gradually tapering off? Any other Remicade tips? Thank you.

A: hi elisabeth, i am a female crohn’s survivor like yourself.
I was on remicade infusions but had to stop it because it stopped working. If Remicade works, then the infusion schedules will vary according to the pt. and symptoms.

When it first came out, I had the infusion and it kept me in remission for 1 1/2 yrs. Once my symptoms came back, I went in for another infusion. That lasted 1 yr. My 3rd infusion, after a few weeks, I knew it didn’t take so I cld my GI and he put me on Entocort. When Humira was approved for Crohn’s he cld me and put me on that.

You don’t need to taper for Remicade if it stops working. Most infusions are done in an outpt. setting like in a hospital. Plan to spend 7-8 hrs. because the new protocol is premedication w/Benedryl to prevent hives and shortness of breath. Bring a book, ipod, magazine, etc. to entertain yourself as well as something to eat. The nurses will monitor you every 15-20 minutes to make sure there is no reaction.

The Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of America has a website w/information on the newest treatments, diet info, women’s issues, surgery, locating a local support group etc. They even have a hotline & live chat that is run by healthcare workers well versed in IBD M-F 9 am – 5pm. Give them a call and see what they say.

I hope the treatment works for you. This disease is a pain in the butt. no pun intended. Feel free to email me if you have questions. I truly understand your concerns and where you are coming from.

Q: What drug has liver damage side affects for Crohn’s disease patients?
The question asks it pretty pointedly. There are multiple drugs for aiding in the remission of a Crohn’s flare up, one of these drugs has very high risks of liver damage. What is the name of it? Please, help?

A: hi be, I am a female crohn’s pt. as well. If you check out the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation’s site and post your question on their open forum to others who have CD, you will get a better response. They have a live chat & hotline run by healthcare experts as well as great stuff on surgery, diet, latest treatments, finding a local CCFA support chapter, etc.

Immunosuppressants such as 6MP and Imuran affect the liver BUT if you have a good GI, he will check the liver for toxicity via bloodwork every 3 months. As soon as it starts to show signs, the med is stopped ASAP. I am speaking from experience when I was on 6MP.

Definitely check out the site and post your question and look around to educate yourself about Crohn’s. best of luck.

Q: How can you avoid putting on weight when on a course of steroids for Crohn’s disease?
My Girlfriend has been diagnosed with Crohn’s deisease and is due to start her treatment which will start with a course of steroids.

She is absolutely dreading putting on the weight that seems to come with this form of medication.

Does anyone know how much weight she can expect to put on and how she can avoid it?

Thanks for your help.

A: hi graeme, I am a female crohn’s pt. for 28 yrs. dxed at the age of 12. Many gastroenterologists are starting to shy away from steroids, Asacol, and Pentasa due to the serious side effects after a long period of time and the fact that they don’t really work to keep a pt. in remission.

Have your girlfriend ask her GI if she is a candidate for Entocort. It is a type of steroid BUT it doesn’t have the serioud side effects like steroids–weight gain, moon face, mood swings, bone thinning, & cataracts. It gets absorbed into the area where the inflammation is & doesn’t go into the blood stream like prednisone that causes side effects.

Other newer treatments are Remicade, Humira, 6MP, Imuran, or Methotrexate. If her MD is persistent on prescribing the prednisone, she should avoid anything, and I mean ANYTHING that has a very high sodium content. It’s the sodium that will cause the weight gain. I learned about this when I was 12 and on it for 13 yrs. until the other meds came out, then I was weaned off of it.

If you go to the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of America, there is more information for you to check out including diet, meds, surgery, coping, women’s issues, as well as locating a local support chapter (highly recommended for you and her to educate yourselves & meet others in the same boat), plus CCFA has a live chat & hotline run by healthcare experts and a forum where anybody can post questions to others who have IBD (inflammatory Bowel Disease–aka Crohn’s or Ulcerative Colitis).

The key to this illness is to eat healthy when in remission, avoid smoking, avoid drinking alcohol, (both interfere with treatments & cause flare ups), exercise, and educating oneself.

Definitely have her see if she is a candidate for the better treatments. Good luck.

Q: What would be a good healthy diet for someone with crohn’s?
I have crohn’s disease and it is hard for me to eat anything that has a lot of fiber in it, like steamed vegetables, raw vegetables, cereals, etc. So my diet mainly consists of carbs and meat. Along with this not so varitable diet and my treatments I am gaining a lot of weight. Does anyone have any ideas of how I can maintain a healthy diet and lose some weight without causing a flare up?

A: Most folks with crohn’s find that a gluten free diet eliminates many symptoms. I know you feel like you don’t want to cut out MORE foods, but I highly suggest you give a high saturated fat (especially from virgin coconut oil) diet a good trial. You might also want to try chia seeds, they are high fiber but the fiber is encased in a gel sack that makes it easier on the digestive system.

Nearly 6 years ago, I started Atkins low carb way of eating to just quit gaining weight. I had to get my out of control appetite under control. I never imagined I could LOSE weight without hunger or exercise, since I’ve become disabled. I never bothered weighing or measuring til I’d noticed that my clothes got huge quick. When my health improved dramatically also, I knew this was my new way of life and since it’s eat all you want (of low carb foods) I know I can do this for life.

My personal carb level is low. I am older & disabled & don’t move much (or cook much) but I eat all I want of meats, eggs, cheeses, yogurt, fats, green vegetables, almonds, berries, flax seeds, chia seeds, shirataki noodles and other foods. Someone active would have a MUCH higher carb level & can usually include all fruits, beans, whole grain products but not sugar & highly refined carbs in unlimited amounts. As long as you have <9grams carbs per hour, you will maintain insulin control & shouldn't gain weight, no matter the calories.

Most overweight & obese people have blood sugar & insulin dysfunctions and can NEVER eat carbs as someone with a functioning body can. They make the mistake of going back to the way of eating that made them fat and that is not possible and yes they will gain all weight back if they eat what they ate that made them obese originally. Insanity is defined as doing the exact same thing, in the exact same way and expecting different results. Many people can return to moderate carb levels but very few can really eat all they want of sugar & maintain weight or health.

You can lose more body fat eating protein & fat (don’t eat protein alone) than not eating AT ALL. To lose weight fast, eat all you want, but nothing but meat, eggs, healthy oils, mayo, butter & half an avocado a day (for added potassium). Keep the calories high & the fat percentage high, at least 65% of calories. Green vegetables & some cheese will continue weight loss but at a slower pace.

The first 2 weeks eat several cups a day of (mostly) lettuce & celery, cucumbers, radishes, mushrooms, peppers & more vegetables thereafter – add 5 grams per day additional every week (20 grams day first 2 weeks, 25grams 3rd week, 30grams 4th week etc) til you gain weight, then subtract 10grams. That will be your personal carb level (everyone is different & depends on how active you are.)

Start with meat, fats & salads for 2 weeks and then slowly add in more green veg, wk4 fresh cheeses, wk5 nuts & seeds, wk6 berries, wk7 legumes, wk8 other fruits, wk9 starchy veg, wk10 whole grains. You will learn how your body reacts to different foods.

The body won’t release fat stores if you lower calories below what it needs. It will slow metabolism to compensate & store every spare ounce as fat. If you continue lowering calories, it will continue lowering the set point, til it can survive off nothing & store fat on anything. The body will only release it’s fat stores if it knows there is plenty of nutritious food.

Eating carbs while trying to lose body fat is terribly inefficient. When in glycolysis (burning glucose as fuel) you have to lower your calories (which slows your metabolism) & exercise heavily to deplete your glycogen stores before burning body fat.

The core of Atkins program is converting the body from glycolysis (burning glucose as fuel) to ketosis (burning fat as fuel). Dietary fat levels need to be at >65% of total calories, if not, the body will still remain in glycolysis by converting 58% of excess protein into glucose (via gluconeogenesis).

It takes minimum of 3 days to convert a body to ketosis, (but only one bite to convert back to glycolysis). People feel sluggish the first week but most feel better than ever thereafter.

Simple carbohydrates (sugar, flour, bread, cereal, pasta, potatoes, rice) trigger insulin, the only fat storage hormone. Protein releases the fat burning hormone glucagon.

High insulin levels promote inflammation, weight gain, hunger & unbalance other hormones. Controlling insulin levels will balance out other hormones & allow human growth hormone (HGH) to be produced naturally so lean muscle will be gained even without exercise.

Q: Is there privatized insurance for Crohn’s Disease patients? If so, how much does it cost?
I have Crohn’s (6 years now) and am currently being treated with Remicade. I need to find a private insurance company that will cover me and hopefully pay a significant portion of the medication costs!

A: hi, i am a female crohn’s pt. depending on if you live in the states or the UK, there should be a support group that can help you. The Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of America has a website you can go to. They have tons of updated information as well as a live chat and a hotline that you can call and talk to a healthcare expert. They also have a forum where you can post questions to others like yourself.

Hope this information can be of some assistance to you. Best of luck.

Q: What race and age are more likely to be affected by crohn’s disease?
Ok I am doing the same project but I have tried looking everywhere for it and it won’t ever give me the answer I’m looking for. So if I could get some one who knows alot about crohn’s disease to help me out and answer this question tonight before 10:30pm you will be a great help!
I would say I would give you 10 points but I don’t know how to do that!
Sorry!

A: Crohn’s disease is a disease of the digestive system which may affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract from mouth to anus. As a result, the symptoms of Crohn’s disease can vary significantly among afflicted individuals. The main gastrointestinal symptoms are abdominal pain, diarrhea (which may be visibly bloody), vomiting, or weight loss.[2][3] Crohn’s disease can also cause complications outside of the gastrointestinal tract such as skin rashes, arthritis, and inflammation of the eye.[1]

The precise cause of Crohn’s disease is not known. The disease occurs when the immune system attacks the gastrointestinal tract and for this reason, Crohn’s disease is considered an autoimmune disease. This autoimmune activity produces inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract, and therefore Crohn’s disease is classified as an inflammatory bowel disease.

Like many other autoimmune diseases, Crohn’s disease is believed to be genetically linked. The highest risk occurs in individuals with siblings who have the disease. Males and females are equally affected. Smokers are three times more likely to develop Crohn’s disease.[4] Crohn disease affects between 400,000 and 600,000 people in North America.[5] Prevalence estimates for Northern Europe have ranged from 27–48 per 100,000.[6] Crohn disease tends to present initially in the teens and twenties, with another peak incidence in the fifties to seventies, although the disease can occur at any age.[1][7]

Unlike the other major types of inflammatory bowel disease, there is no known drug based or surgical cure for Crohn’s disease.[8] Treatment options are restricted to controlling symptoms, putting and keeping the disease in remission and preventing relapse.

The disease was independently described in 1904 by Polish surgeon Antoni Leśniowski and in 1932 by American gastroenterologist Burrill Bernard Crohn, for whom the disease was named. Crohn, along with two colleagues, described a series of patients with inflammation of the terminal ileum, the area most commonly affected by the illness.[9] For this reason, the disease has also been called regional ileitis[9] or regional enteritis.

Q: Do pregnant women with Crohn’s have a higher chance of the multiple marker test returning a false positive?
I have Crohn’s disease and I’m debating to do the multiple marker blood test, but someone told me that they know some Crohn’s patients who had tests that came back positive and the babies were fine. Could Crohn’s effect the test results?

A: if i were you, i wouldnt worry about doing the test. i opted out of it..mostly because they really dont end up telling you anything. there is such a high rate of people getting bad results on it when it doesnt mean anything. and it doesnt give you a yes or no to anything..just a percentage chance

disease crohn’s

admin — Wed, 23 Jun 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Read and learn more about disease crohn’s. For more, visit the Colitis website Colitis.PopularThinking.com

A: D.

The medical advice for crohn’s is not good and that should be obvious because they can never seem to help anyone get rid of the disease, just treat the symptoms.

good luck 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.

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.

A: It depends on the doctor. The hospital cannot do anything without the doctor. The tests themselves
are often done on an out patient basis. They maybe trying to regulate his diet in the hospital.

Would appreciate advice from a doctor especially.

Thank you for your time.

A: Not a Doc, just another Crohn’s patient. Senna can aggravate and/or cause serious flare ups with Crohn’s. I’d stay away from it. Doesn’t sound like anything I’d want to chance.

Q: For giving a presentation, is Crohn’s disease an interesting topic?
I’m a student with a presentation on a medical disease at the end of the semester (about 4-5 weeks from now). I’ve chosen Crohn’s disease, but I’m beginning to wonder whether it’s really an interesting disease. Can you help?

A: hi air, I’ve been a crohn’s pt. since the age of 12. I just helped someone from YA last month on giving a presentation on Crohn’s.

Check out the crohn’s & colitis foundation’ site. They have tons of information you can use for your report. I’d be happy to assist w/any Q&A you may have about it.

Contrary to what others may say, it IS NOT deadly. You CAN NOT die from it. You can have complications from it such as liver and pancreas problems as a result from a medication, eye trouble, joint pain, abdominal pain, fatigue, nausea, etc. There are newer treatments to get these problems under control. Also, the patient must be very compliant and avoid smoking/drinking, avoid doing street drugs, take all meds as prescribed, keep all GI appointments as well as tests, eat right when feeling well and exercise.

Yes, it may be tough at times, but if the pt. works w/their doctors and complies w/the treatment, they can get into remission. Surgery is always a last resort if the medication doesn’t work or there is a blockage.

Knowledge is power. Definitely check out CCFA’s site, use their live chat and hotline, and post your questions on their open forum. Many folks with IBD can also assist you. Good luck.

Q: Do I have to reveal that I have Crohn’s and digenerative bone disease during a job interview?
I am going for a job interview this week. I was diagnosed with Crohn’s Disease and digenerative bone disease about 8 months ago. Before my diagnosis, I miss many, many days of work due to abdominal pain, joint pain, stiffness and the inability to be too far away from my bathroom. This went on for 4 years before I was finally diagnosed. Since I have been diagnosed and gotten the proper medication, I have both undercontrol. The possibility of a flair up at one time or another is relatively certain. Should I disclose this information in the interview or wait til I have the job and only disclose if a flair up occurs and I am forced to take time off?

A: By law, you do not have to disclose anything. (HIPAA Privacy Rule) You only have to answer truthfully questions that directly relate to your ability to do the job, such as Can you lift 20 lbs. on a regular basis (if that’s part of the job), or look at a computer screen for 8 hours a day, etc. I have Crohn’s and I know the worry that a flare may occur and interfere with your brand-new job and make a bad impression. Consult an attorney or go to www.ccfa.org and look for their book on employment rights for more information, or the government Web site: http://www.hhs.gov/ocr/hipaa/

Q: what are some websites that say that Crohn’s disease can sometimes really be parasites?
links that have statistics or has facts about how crohn’s disease can sometime be misdiagnosed and really be parasites would be really appreciated.
Thanks!

A: hi jelly, i am a crohn’s pt. It is due to the body rejecting the gut and seeing it as a foreign body due to a weakened immune system in the pt.

For more accurate information, check out the Crohn’s & Colitis foundation’s site. It has everything ranging from testing for CD, treatment, surgery, latest treatments, a live chat and hotline run by health care experts and an open forum you can post this question.

good luck. never heard of parasites as I’ve never had them and neither have the others I’ve met.

Q: What age can you operate on crohn’s disease?
My younger brother has Crohn’s disease. He’s about 12 now is it safe for him to go through surgery?

A: Hodel – Not everyone with Crohn’s disease needs an operation. Careful diet and medicines, as needed, often give excellent results. If his doctor (gastroenterologist) truly believess that surgery is required, this will be discussed with the family and the doctor. Operating comes only after other treatments do not give the desired good treatment results.

Q: What are the chances of getting Crohn’s disease?
I’ve been wondering this for a good… 10 minutes. I would like to know the chances of getting Crohn’s disease. I’ve been searching google, but all it tells me is smoking raises it, tells me nothing about the chance without smoking. I was hoping someone else would know, maybe someone with Crohn’s disease.

Thank you!

A: hi range, I am a Crohn’s survivor. You can’t catch Crohn’s disaease like an STD or a cold. It’s an autoimmune illness where the body is attacking the digestive tract as a foreign object and is trying to get rid of it. Medication therapy is used to get things in remission such asa Remicade, Entocort, Humira, 6MP or Imuran.

In order to dx it correctly you need to have a colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy, endoscopy if it is in the mouth, throat, stomach, blood work (Prometheus is the test you’d need), experiencing symptoms such as blood in the stool, abdominal pain, nausea/vomiting, fatigue, high or low grade fever, the big “D” or constipation and blood clotting if you area flaring. Smoking will aggravate it as well as birth control (the pill causes blood clots & when you are in a flare the blood becomes sticky thus increasing the chances over 75% of having a DVT, PE, or stroke).

There have been studies done to see if it is genetic. For more information on that, check out the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of America site. They have all of the latest information on treatments, studies, medical tests used to dx IBD, etc.

If you still have questions, CCFA has the answers. Good luck.

Q: If you have sex with a condom can you get crohn’s disease?
If you are a straight woman and you have sex without a condom can you get crohn’s disease (bacteria getting inside you) and if you let a man do you anally with or without a condom can you get crohn’s disease? I read that bacteria in the bowels can lead to crohn’s and assume that anal sex would lead to bacteria in the bowel. Anyone know the answer to these questions?

A: The bacteria that cause crohn’s aren’t going to get there from anal sex.
But use a condom anyway – there’s such a thing as AIDS!

Q: What is a simple way to explain Crohn’s Disease?
I dont get what crohn disease is. Can you explain it in a simple way so i may understand what it is.

A: All you need to know about Crohn’s:
1- You’re ALWAYS in the bathroom or looking for one
2- Pain, like…if you touch my gut I’m going to kill you and do not move because it hurts
3- Your immune system attacks itself which causes the inflammation which causes the pain and the oooo where is the bathroom!
4- Barium shoots through you!
5- You’re always are tired

That about sums up Crohn’s for you!

Pharmacy & Vet Tech/Crohnie

Q: How can I support a friend who has Crohn’s disease?
My friend was recently diagnosed with Crohn’s disease. He is taking medication, going to physio, and learning to change the way he eats. Sometimes he is in a lot of pain and is frustrated with his condition. I don’t want to baby him, because I don’t think that’s very empowering, but I want to show him that I take his pain seriously. What kinds of things can I say to him to show my support and to help comfort him?

Thanks for your time

A: This is coming from someone who HAS Crohn’s disease so I hope I can help.
I was diagnosed a year ago and yes, babying isn’t the way to go. What you can do is listen to what he has to say. Even if all he does is rant about how much he hates it, hes telling you because he wants to be heard. Don’t eat foods he used to like in front of him, or drink alcohol excessively in his presence. Honestly, even if its not intentionally, its frustrating. Best you can do is cheer him up with things he enjoys. Like for me, my friends would opt for movies nights that are caffiene-less, popcorn-less and all out tired-high fun (you know when you’re REALLY tired but not). Don’t constently go on about how he should do ‘this’ or do ‘that’ about it. Do be encouraging and a good thing to do is tell him you’ll join his diet plan, take sugar pills at the same time he takes his medication and above all wait it out, because once he gets used to the deal, and his Crohn’s is under control, you’ll be able to find ways to joke about it if he’s like me in any way. Don’t worry, he may be down now, but you can promise him it’ll get better from here.

Before you judge this poor girl, she may be suffering w/abdominal pain, fatigue, bleeding, the big “D” or “C”. You just don’t know unless you’ve been in her shoes.

It’s nice to know that some people actually care when a friend isn’t well.

Q: What are the best job’s for people suffering with Crohn’s disease?
I wondered if there are good job’s that allow for good handling of crohn’s disease.

A: hi mark, i’ve been a crohn’s pt. since the age of 12.
People with this illness can do almost anything if they are in remission. We are protected by the 1990 Disability Act. The employers have to make certain accommodations for CD pts. in order for them to do their jobs. They can not fire us based upon our illness.

for more information on it, check out the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of America website. They have information on surgery, medications, treatments, diet, and even information on locating a local support chapter. I belong to the one near me & I’ve even managed to have a few business contacts. You’d be amazed at the # of ppl from all walks of life w/IBD who have successful careers.

Also, CCFA has a live chat & 800 number that is run by healthcare professionals M-F 9 am – 5 pm (EST). You can ask them questions & get straight answers since they are up-to-date on IBD.

My last job was a medical biller at a local hospital I frqeuently go to as a pt. in the ER. My bosses were extremely supportive & come to find out there were 2 other coworkers with IBD so I didn’t feel like the odd woman out.

If you ever run into problems at your job due to your Crohn’s, contact CCFA. They can guide you & tell you what your options are.

crohn’s disease

admin — Wed, 23 Jun 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Read and learn more about crohn’s disease. For more, visit the Colitis website Colitis.PopularThinking.com

A: D.

The medical advice for crohn’s is not good and that should be obvious because they can never seem to help anyone get rid of the disease, just treat the symptoms.

good luck 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.

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.

A: It depends on the doctor. The hospital cannot do anything without the doctor. The tests themselves
are often done on an out patient basis. They maybe trying to regulate his diet in the hospital.

Would appreciate advice from a doctor especially.

Thank you for your time.

A: Not a Doc, just another Crohn’s patient. Senna can aggravate and/or cause serious flare ups with Crohn’s. I’d stay away from it. Doesn’t sound like anything I’d want to chance.

A: hi air, I’ve been a crohn’s pt. since the age of 12. I just helped someone from YA last month on giving a presentation on Crohn’s.

Check out the crohn’s & colitis foundation’ site. They have tons of information you can use for your report. I’d be happy to assist w/any Q&A you may have about it.

Knowledge is power. Definitely check out CCFA’s site, use their live chat and hotline, and post your questions on their open forum. Many folks with IBD can also assist you. Good luck.

A: hi jelly, i am a crohn’s pt. It is due to the body rejecting the gut and seeing it as a foreign body due to a weakened immune system in the pt.

good luck. never heard of parasites as I’ve never had them and neither have the others I’ve met.

Q: What age can you operate on crohn’s disease?
My younger brother has Crohn’s disease. He’s about 12 now is it safe for him to go through surgery?

Thank you!

If you still have questions, CCFA has the answers. Good luck.

A: The bacteria that cause crohn’s aren’t going to get there from anal sex.
But use a condom anyway – there’s such a thing as AIDS!

Q: What is a simple way to explain Crohn’s Disease?
I dont get what crohn disease is. Can you explain it in a simple way so i may understand what it is.

That about sums up Crohn’s for you!

Pharmacy & Vet Tech/Crohnie

Thanks for your time

Before you judge this poor girl, she may be suffering w/abdominal pain, fatigue, bleeding, the big “D” or “C”. You just don’t know unless you’ve been in her shoes.

It’s nice to know that some people actually care when a friend isn’t well.

Q: What are the best job’s for people suffering with Crohn’s disease?
I wondered if there are good job’s that allow for good handling of crohn’s disease.

Also, CCFA has a live chat & 800 number that is run by healthcare professionals M-F 9 am – 5 pm (EST). You can ask them questions & get straight answers since they are up-to-date on IBD.

If you ever run into problems at your job due to your Crohn’s, contact CCFA. They can guide you & tell you what your options are.

colitis

admin — Wed, 23 Jun 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Read and learn more about colitis. For more, visit the Colitis website Colitis.PopularThinking.com

Q: How do you know the difference between antibiotic side effects and colitis?
So antibiotics can cause stomach cramps and loose stool which are also the symptoms of antibiotic induced colitis.

I have been having these symptoms for about three days now and have been off my antibiotic for three days now. How do I know when it could be a sign of something much worse like colitis?

A: There’s an old hippie cure for this, I’ve actually used it and it seems to work. Try taking probiotic yogurt (yogurt with active cultures in it) or going to a health food store and taking some of these probiotic pills with bacteria in them. That will help replace some of the bacteria that was lost while you were on antibiotics.

What’s happening is that antibiotics did their job so well, they killed the bacteria in your intestinal tract that your body needs to digest food (which is why you’re having nasty diarrhea).

Q: How common are dogs to have colitis after surgery?
my chi had perianal hernia surgery 2 months ago. today she was diagnosed with colitis. is there any connection between the two? Do you think my vet did the operation badly or something?

A: If there is a two month span between the two, then no, they are not related. Colitis actually means “inflammation of the colon” and wouldn’t be related to a hernia surgery anyway. There are lots of things that could bring on colitis…stress, new food/treat, got into something she shouldn’t have.
More than likely, your vet prescribed some meds for her…give them to her as prescribed and it should resolve fairly quickly.
Good luck

Q: What is the effect of birth control pill on colitis?
I’ve done a little research and have been starting to find more and more sites that tell me taking the Birth Control pill can lead to the development of Ulcerative Colitis and/or Chromes Disease. Does anyone know if this is true? Or why this would happen? Also what if the person had Proctitis beforehand started taking the pill and has developed Colitis. Could the pill be the reason for it?

A: I have colitis and I was never on the pill. It’s just something that you get, and doctors have no idea why. It is not caused by the pill, it’s just something that some people will get and they will have it the rest of our lives. My colitis is in my intestine and colon and that has nothing to do with the pill. Just talk to your doctor!

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

I hope this helps you!! )

Q: How can i get a food list of what to eat with Colitis ?
I have Colitis and don’t know what to eat . I am 37 yrs old in Pa.
Just diagnosed and is clueless to what this requires. If i could just talk to someone with the some anwers. Thank you very much.

A: Eat a high fiber diet EXCEPT when you are having a flare-up, then avoid fiber like the plague. You should also regularly drink Ensure shakes because it digests in the upper part of your small intestine(which isn’t diseased and can actually absorb the nutrients.)

Some people have a lactose problem too….luckily, I do not.

Hope this info helps you out. Feel better, good luck!!

http://www.ccfa.org/about/news/pregnancy

Q: How can I deal with the pain with my colitis?
I have colitis and it has been good to me before but it has come back I am trying to get a hold of my specialest. I want to go back to work and do whatever I want adn beable to do stuff like normal people. I know to eat well and stuff but is there any other ways.

A: I suffer from the same problem and I thought I knew everything about how to eat with this problem. I came across a website they gave me information about how to eat like I never understood before. It has changed my life and I no longer suffer with the pain.

Soluble fiber is the single greatest dietary aid for preventing colitis symptoms in the first place, as well as relieving them once they occur. Here’s the kicker. Soluble fiber is NOT typically found in foods most people think of as “fiber,” such as bran or raw leafy green vegetables. Soluble fiber is actually found in foods commonly thought of as “starches”, though soluble fiber itself differs from starch as the chemical bonds that join its individual sugar units cannot be digested by enzymes in the human GI tract. In other words, soluble fiber has no calories because it passes through the body intact.

As a general rule, the grain and cereal foods at the top of this list make the safest, easiest, and most versatile soluble fiber foundations for your meals and snacks.[1]

Rice
Pasta and noodles
Oatmeal
Barley
Fresh white breads such as French or sourdough (NOT whole wheat or whole grain)*
Rice cereals
Flour tortillas
Soy
Quinoa
Corn meal
Potatoes
Carrots
Yams
Sweet potatoes
Turnips
Rutabagas
Parsnips
Beets
Squash and pumpkins
Mushrooms
Chestnuts
Avocados (though they do have some fat)
Bananas
Applesauce
Mangoes
Papayas (also digestive aids that relieve gas and indigestion)

I hope this helps you. If you have any further questions please let me know.
Billie77

A: I suggest reading the book patient heal thyself

top one

http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_ss_b?url=search-alias%3Dstripbooks&field-keywords=patient+heal+thyself&x=0&y=0

crohn’s

admin — Wed, 23 Jun 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Read and learn more about crohn’s. For more, visit the Colitis website Colitis.PopularThinking.com

The medical advice for crohn’s is not good and that should be obvious because they can never seem to help anyone get rid of the disease, just treat the symptoms.

good luck to you

A: D.

A: It depends on the doctor. The hospital cannot do anything without the doctor. The tests themselves
are often done on an out patient basis. They maybe trying to regulate his diet in the hospital.

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.

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.

Before you judge this poor girl, she may be suffering w/abdominal pain, fatigue, bleeding, the big “D” or “C”. You just don’t know unless you’ve been in her shoes.

It’s nice to know that some people actually care when a friend isn’t well.

Hope this information can be of some assistance to you. Best of luck.

Would appreciate advice from a doctor especially.

Thank you for your time.

A: Not a Doc, just another Crohn’s patient. Senna can aggravate and/or cause serious flare ups with Crohn’s. I’d stay away from it. Doesn’t sound like anything I’d want to chance.

I hope the treatment works for you. This disease is a pain in the butt. no pun intended. Feel free to email me if you have questions. I truly understand your concerns and where you are coming from.

Definitely check out the site and post your question and look around to educate yourself about Crohn’s. best of luck.

It takes minimum of 3 days to convert a body to ketosis, (but only one bite to convert back to glycolysis). People feel sluggish the first week but most feel better than ever thereafter.

Simple carbohydrates (sugar, flour, bread, cereal, pasta, potatoes, rice) trigger insulin, the only fat storage hormone. Protein releases the fat burning hormone glucagon.

Q: What do i expect after a Crohn’s ressection surgery?
I am about to have a ressection done after years of dealing with Crohn’s. Needless to say I am pretty nervous. What are the things to expect after surgery?

A: I had a bowel ressection this summer actually. I can tell you, I was very very nervous at first, and when I woke up from the surgery, it was not pleasant! I had it in my head that after years of dealing with crohns I could deal with some soreness in my stomach, but the worse thing was not that (The morphine made that pretty easy to get through!) it was the NG tube. I also got pretty hungry after 10 days of not eating straight. I would not be worried about Stomach Pains. Not that bad, actually! yeah you’re sore.So what? As a crohns patient, you KNOW what its like to be in pain. Also, you might be pretty dependant on people, needing their help to get up and down. Try and push yourself though. Walk everyday you can, more each day. Your back might hurt from laying in bed, but the more you walk, the FASTER you recover!! I was able to get out of the hospital the day after my NG tube was removed. Also, IVs are very annoying, so be carefull with them…I, and the patient (9 years, appendix removal…) next to me both had problems.

Keep a positive attitude! I bet you knew this was coming at one point. You will feel really crappy in the hospital, but let me tell you, after a month or so, you will be a better you! no more stomach pains, no more apetite problems, no more prednisone if you had to take it, no more !!

I had a bowel ressection – 10 inches of intestine taken out, as well as my appendix, a fistula, and some weird cyst no one knew i had lol. And I recovered faster than the 9 year old patient, who had a lesser surgery. It was the combination of dealing with crohns for so many years and just keeping a positive attitude that got me threw it. Also, books, my laptop, and my family were good company.

Good luck, if you want to know anything else, feel free email me. It has made me a better person…all the bumps in our life make us better people!!

She is absolutely dreading putting on the weight that seems to come with this form of medication.

Does anyone know how much weight she can expect to put on and how she can avoid it?

Thanks for your help.

The key to this illness is to eat healthy when in remission, avoid smoking, avoid drinking alcohol, (both interfere with treatments & cause flare ups), exercise, and educating oneself.

Definitely have her see if she is a candidate for the better treatments. Good luck.