Hey guys. I'm looking for some help...

[RaeBob]

Hey everyone,

My name is Rachel, and I have had Crohn's for about 8 years now. I got diagnosed when I was 18. It took a long time for the diagnosis, and they finally figured it out about a year later. Without writing a novel, I will give the Reader's Digest version ... I was going to a doctor at a very good hospital, started steroids and 6MP and all that stuff. Then she was stuck on the fact that the main thing that would help me deal with my Crohn's would be to change my career path. (I am a firefighter/paramedic, been in the business since I was 16)

Anyways, I do not see that doctor anymore because I refused to change something that I worked so hard for, and she would not work with me to deal with my career and disease at the same time.

THE PROBLEM-
I haven't seen a GI specialist since then. About 5 years and some change. My symptoms are getting to the point where they are almost unbearable. I am wanting to go to the ER, but I am not sure if they could really do anything for me. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thank you

 

[semicolon306]

If you are in pain, they will help control this. They will probably do a CT scan and admit you if needed. You probably need to have some new test to see the status of the Crohn's.

You can still be a fire medic, PROMISE, since I am one with Colitis, crohns, and an ileostomy.

Any questions let me know.

 

[biteyshark]

I'd definitely go to the ER or make a GI appointment as soon as possible if you know of one without a long waiting time and you can wait. If not, go get help.

Definitely take care of yourself first. Like he said above, you should still be able to do what you love/have the career you want, and be healthy. Don't wait any longer if you are in pain though. I really respect you for putting other people first all the time in your profession, but think you should do something for yourself (and you'll be better at it when you're 100%!).

Good luck and hope you feel better soon!

 

[Lucy]

I wouldn't give up such a wonderful job. Find a GI who will work with you. Many people with crhon's live healthy active lifes. If your in pain go to the ER. Do some research and talk to people who can suggest a good physician. There are doctors who should be willing to work with you. All you need is a med that will help you. Good Luck and don't give up. Please keep us posted.

 

[Dexky]

Welcome Rachel!! Don't wait until you have no choice! If you are at the point of asking should you go to the ER, you should!! Good luck!!

 

[DustyKat]

Hi Rachel and :welcome:

I'm glad you found your way here. You aren't the only one here that is in that type of work and although I can see what the doctor was getting at with being high pressure I see any good being cancelled out if you are leaving a job you love. There is no reason you cannot find a GI that will work with you.

You have reached a point now though where you need to be seen to ASAP. Please don't ignore your symptoms any longer as in worse case scenario untreated Crohns could have the potential to become life threatening. Where are you located? If we know there may be someone that can recommend a good GI or hospital to you.

Where is your Crohns located and what are your symptoms now?? Good luck and please keep us posted on how you are going, welcome aboard!

Take care,
Dusty

 

[Astra]

Hi Rachel
and welcome

hope you get to see someone, I ignored my symptoms too, for a long time, carried on regardless, I didn't have Crohn's anymore! It had gone! I soon knew about it in the ride in the ambulance to A&E, just minutes off rupturing!
I've learnt my lesson the hard way, don't you do the same, you need to be checked over by a specialist, this disease is an unpredictable bitch! A lot can happen in 5 years!
Glad you found us, lots of support here, let us know how you get on
lotsa luv
Joan xxx

 

[CDDad]

Hi Rachel,
Everyone gave you such good advice, so I'll just say hi and add one more thing. Years ago, I also stopped seeing docs and let my condition fester. Not a great idea - you've got to try and control the inflamation. I didn't know that unchecked inflamation can lead to bad things. Well, I do now.

Good luck - and don't give up that job - what you do is so awesome.

 

[semicolon306]

Any update on how you are doing? I hope that all is well and know if you need anything we are here for you