2 week flare up

[alicepalace1]

Hi Everyone,

How long does a Colitis flare up normally last?

For the past 2 weeks I have had extremely bad pain in my abdomen, sharp and cramping pains which are sometimes on the right side and sometimes on the left. The pain is so bad that I sometimes cannot move or walk as it is so excruciating. I have been to my GP who thinks I have Colitis and has referred me to a Gastroenterologist, but I wont see them untill sometime in January. I am not sure how much more of this I can take!

I dont have diarrhea or blood in my stools, but I do have mucus and sometimes feel constipated. Other than that I do not have any symptoms, blood tests came back normal apart from raised CRP (mine was 17 and it is usually less than 5) showing inflammation. But I do not have an infection or temperature. My abdomen is extremely tender and very bloated. Previous to the last 2 weeks I have not had any health problems.

Has anyone had similar symptoms to this? Has anyone had a flare up that has lasted this long?

I would be so grateful for any help or advise! All the best, Alice

 

[FrozenGirl]

Flares can last from I would say a week to months plus. Can you ask to be put on a cancellation list for the GI. Short notice appointment?

 

[alicepalace1]

Thank you so much for your reply Frozen Girl. I work in a hospital and my boss suggested the same thing today, so I will be on the phone to them first thing in the morning.

How do people cope with a flare up that lasts weeks/months? I cannot move or walk without servere pain, and I cannot work. I'm not sure how much longer I can carry on like this.

 

[Muppetgirl]

Just a note on the pain. Given its severity, lack of improvement and that its exacerbated by movement, I would seriously consider going to hospital or at least contacting your GP again. Certainly if it should worsen you should seek help.

As you don't yet have your dx confirmed, I would say this is another reason to seek help. At this stage severe abdominal pain could have a myriad of causes. (I am not saying its not colitis, just that your GP cannot know for sure at this point). I've taken the attitude I must be ok if I've not collapsed before - and ended up in trouble. Again I'm not saying that will be the case, just that its wise not to take a chance.

Also - I don't know if this applies - but some hospital staff hold back because they know the pressures staff are under, but really you have every right to seek help. I really hope you get seen and get the pain under control soon.

 

[FrozenGirl]

I agree. If it is bad to the point where walking is impossible you need help sooner rather than later. You are not helping anyone delaying care you need.