My Battle with...Crohn's?
Wed, January 27, 2010 8:31 PM
Last August, I started having unexplained fevers and abdominal pain, tell tale signs of a flare up. I called my gastroenterologist, who wrote me up for Entocourt, an anti-inflammatory. The drug not only caused me to experience more abdominal pain; it made me lose my appetite and gave me an infection, which I am still combatting on and off. After going off the Entocourt, I went into a period of denial. A new doctor and a new diagnosis changed everything; I am now on three different medications, short-term, to control what is now diagnosed as Crohn's, and not ulcerative colitis. During this recent flare up/disease change, I have lost twenty pounds due to abdominal pain and appetite loss, and can no longer exercise at my old intensity. I have currently been placed on a liquid diet for an indeterminate period of time.
My gastroenterologist is considering surgery. I am terrified at the prospect (and the amount of school I'll miss), but I also know that this may be the last option to give me a normal life. I want to be able to eat solid food without pain again. And exercise. And study. And do all those things that I once refused or begrudgingly did.
What is my purpose in writing this? Partially, I'm looking for any support. The bigger reason? However cliche it is, when you complain about having an arduous workout session you rather wouldn't have done, an extra school project, midterms, or even chores, remember that there are others who can't.
Joined Oct 19, 2009
Sat, February 06, 2010 1:00 AM
Reply posted for FlowerPower.
I am a Freshman. I had to withdraw this semester for insurance purposes.
My mother and I are going to the Registrar's office next week to explain the situation. I'll play catch up during the summer. No worries there.
On the positive side, I just had a right hemicolectomy Monday. I'm still in pain (not to mention the staples and scarring). For the first time in a few months, I'm able to eat. Solid food. So I'm getting my hands on whatever is acceptable on a low residue diet. I've had some diarrhea and gas, but nothing terrible (yet). It's nothing compared to what I was used to dealing with on a regular basis. The surgeons asked how I was able to live. One third of my intestines, they said, were falling apart.
Surgery is not pleasant. By any stretch of the imagination. My energy level is nowhere near what it is normally. I can't exercise. Walking, right now, is a strain. But I do not, by a long stretch, regret doing it.
Joined Oct 19, 2009
Sun, January 31, 2010 10:46 PM
Reply posted for Aaroneet.
Chin up! Ive been there. Ive had 6 surgeries in the last 13 years the first 2 during college. I made it through--it took only a semester longer. If you are having troubles with certain classes because crohns gets in the way, let your teachers know. I honestly found out the hard way after I flunked a class and my school counselor talked with my professor, he told me I could have come to him about the illness and we would have worked it thru. I was to embarrassed to talk to anyone then, but people are understanding usually. My crohns is still a constant battle, but I wouldnt be where I am today without it. It has taught me to persevere not to mention I am a better pharmacist with the disease.
Joined Jan 31, 2010
Sat, January 30, 2010 12:08 AM
Reply posted for Aaroneet.
I'm sorry you have been going through so much. You don't say how old you are, but I am guessing college age (?) I hope you can find relief and don't end up missing too much school - I know that can be stressful in and of itself.
Hang in there
Joined Jan 24, 2010
Thu, January 28, 2010 9:24 PM
Reply posted for Aaroneet.
hang in there.having had crohns for 40years had 6 surgeries over the years.i am on TPN now.i was real sick 2 years ago and last year went to mayo and they did surgery and i have not felt this good in 2 years.i was ready to give up befor my last surgery..my crohns is still there and i have small bouts but life is good and i am grateful for what i have or dont have.and hang in there
paverJoined Jun 18, 2009
Wed, January 27, 2010 9:04 PM
Reply posted for Aaroneet.
I was originally diagnosed with Ulcerative Colitis. Should've specified.
Joined Oct 19, 2009