Community Forum

Have a question, or want to share your own tips and experiences? Join the discussion in the community forum. You must be registered to participate. Our forums are moderated by Crohn's & Colitis Foundation staff to facilitate a safe environment.

Treatment when hospitalized


Fri, October 18, 2024 8:44 PM

Hello. I'm new to this forum. 

A little background: I was diagnosed with Crohn's in 2016 but suspect it was there long before. I also had extreme endometriosis. Between the endometriosis and Crohn's I've had 13 abdominal surgeries that included the removal of my colon/large intestines, part of my small intestine as well my uterus, ovaries, gallbladder and appendix. 
Crohn's not only causes all the usual gastrointestinal problems but has caused "arthritis" in all of my weight bearing joints and hands. After many different treatments, I was given Stelara and it made a huge difference. However, my insurance decided to stop covering it. My doctors and I are trying to fight this but not much luck. 

Since I have been off Stelara, I've had 3 major flares ending up in the er. For two of those, I was admitted until the nausea and pain were under control. 

Recently, I ended up in the er due to extreme pain, nausea, fever and diarrhea. A CT scan showed a stricture and inflammation throughout my abdomen. The er physician was very helpful and actually asked what has helped in the past . For me, IV fluids, nausea medication, steroids, and pain management. Any medication given, has to be through IV until things are under control - usually within 36 hours. They decided to admit me and the admitting physician immediately pulled any IV pain meds and would only offer oral Tylenol. At that point, any oral medication is going to come right back out or right through me. He kept insisting opioids are not an effective treatment for Crohn's. I agree. They don't cure anything. If someone breaks their leg, they are given pain meds not to cure the break but to ease suffering and make it possible for the patient to recover faster. When I refused the Tylenol, he of course used this as proof that all I wanted were opioids. 

I am wondering what has been the experience of other Crohn's patients and am I wrong to ask for pain control during a bad flare up? 

Thank you,
jt

FPO Jthacker
Joined Oct 18, 2024

Fri, November 15, 2024 1:07 PM

Reply posted for Jthacker.

Telecommunications has revolutionized the way people connect across the globe. From landlines to mobile phones, and now internet-based services, advancements in technology have drastically improved communication. One popular service in this field is Rebtel, which provides affordable international calling. Users can make calls over Wi-Fi or 3G/4G networks, bypassing traditional carriers. For those experiencing issues, the rebtel customer service number is available to assist with troubleshooting and inquiries. Their support team helps users navigate account management, calling plans, and any technical difficulties, ensuring a seamless experience for millions of customers worldwide. Telecommunications continues to evolve, making the world more connected than ever before.

FPO GRothe012
Joined Nov 15, 2024

Tue, October 29, 2024 10:18 AM

Reply posted for Jthacker.

Jthacker,

I am sorry to hear about this experience. Pain is certainly a shared experience among many people with IBD, so you are not alone. Here is some educational information regarding pain:


Living with IBD: Pain and Fatigue | Crohn's & Colitis Foundation

Pain Management for IBD Patients | Crohn's & Colitis Foundation


T
alk to your doctor about pain management and what your options are. Often times treating the disease helps manage the symptoms, and the pain that comes with those symptoms. But if the treatment plan is not working, it's important to have a discussion with your doctor to understand what your options are- whether they are medications, or other pain management strategies.


FPO administrator
Joined Oct 12, 2017

Related Topics

Starting Remicade Infusio...
Author Image shannonmiller
Joined Feb 20, 2023

I have Ulcerative colitis, am experiencing a bad f....

read more

Biologic- How to get it c...
Author Image orthopt2003
Joined Oct 8, 2021

Hello. My daughter 10 years old after almost 18 mo....

read more

Newly diagnosed, Advice &...
Author Image lifeexperience
Joined Sep 20, 2023

I was diagnosed with Crohn's in August while....

read more