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Chemical sensitivity, then UC

M

michaelm

New to the forum, but over 15 years with UC. Onset caused by chemical exposures, primarily formaldehyde. Have managed to control with lifestyle and environment changes (chemical avoidance), and a daily regimen of codeine/caffeine (yes, really!) Recent flare-up is rare and (as you all know) perplexing/depressing/exhausting/debilitating. I found this site when I googled "UC and marijuana" on a hunch. I haven't used any MJ for about 40 years (a clue to my age!) but wondered if the relaxation from it might interrupt the gut spasms. Yes, I found some threads and sense that it is worth exploring. I'm not familiar with this site, but I expect I will report back to one of those threads.
 
Judith

Judith

Crohnsforum Science Advisor
Hello Michaelm,
Welcome to CrohnsForum. I highly suggest you talk with your physician before adding any medication (Medical Marijuana included). Also, I would advise investigating the drug laws for your area. Medical Marijuana is legal in some areas where CrohnsForum members live, and illegal in others.

There are also pharmaceuticals that your doctor can prescribe based on the active ingredients in medical marijuana (check out our MMJ Wiki page for more information on those).

You might find these threads of interest:

Welcome to CrohnsForum! We are happy you have joined us. Please keep us updated on your health, no matter what your decision regarding the MMJ. I hope you are feeling better soon.
 
M

michaelm

Thank you for the note/caution. My experience with mainstream medicine is mixed. I've come to respect myself as my own best doctor. With regard to the UC, I was glad for the opportunity to view the damage to my colon "on TV", but the options I was offered were not appealing. If I recall correctly, the drug choices had some serious side effects. I found natural anti-inflammatories, chemical avoidance, and (what probably appears bizarre), a daily dose of ASA with codeine to work for me. My "doctor" here is a specialist I see for my 'annual revues', as my UC has been in remission for 6 years. There are not many choices in the marketplace here, and I feel lucky to "have" a mainstream doctor/surgeon who would treat me in an emergency. (I'm glad I've never needed it,though!) On every annual visit I ask him if there are any new developments in the treatment of my condition, and the answer is always, "no". Medical MJ would probably never pass his lips, and I wouldn't expect any knowledgeable advice from him. As previously stated, I'm familiar with MJ, albeit a distant memory, and am confident that the side effects would be tolerable and safe. Recreational MJ is available here, so sourcing should be no problem. With the prospect of relief, it is a no-brainer choice.
I appreciate your note of caution, but I expect it is a necessary disclaimer.
Thank you.
 
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