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Should I be seeing improvements?


Mon, July 29, 2024 9:12 PM

I was diagnosed with UC about six weeks ago, though I suspect I've been dealing with flares for some time. My GI prescribed mesalamine which I have taken religiously. Frequency is down from 8-12 times per day to about 3. However, the urgency remains. And I literally cannot remember the last time I passed a formed stool. Quite honestly has been years. Type 6 and 7, with the very occasional type 5 feeling like a victory. Also have to literally run to the bathroom the moment I awaken in the morning. 

Should I be seeing more improvement at this point in treatment? Or is it too soon? Just not sure when to ask the doc if we need to try something else. I've developed other symptoms that may or may not be related - they did start not long after diagnosis and starting meds. I'm just so very defeated by feeling so poorly all the time. I feel like life will never be normal (or fun) again.  

FPO Marys139
Joined Jul 29, 2024

Thu, September 12, 2024 3:31 PM

Reply posted for Marys139.

I, too, was put on Mesaline after my UC diagnosis which had little effect. I have been getting Entyvio infusions for about two years now which has been a real lifesaver for me. No more  accidents, bleeding. Occasionally I will get a flare that, when I review my daily diet, can be traced to a poor food choice. I stick with a dairy free diet, no bubbly drinks, meat once a month, gluten free when possible, no alcohol. I admit I drink one cup of coffee ( what am I,  saint?) a day. Prolonged Stress will affect my gut in a big way. What else? Oh yeah... no popcorn or nuts, no raw veggies like carrots. It's a learning process really since everyone's UC is different. Good luck. 

FPO LaurenC
Joined Oct 20, 2021

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