Hi!

[terri_ann87]

Hi,

I'm 23 years old, living in the UK and was diagnosed with Crohn's in December 2003 when I was 16 years old.

Fortunately I haven't had any bowel surgery but I have problems with peri anal disease. I had an peri anal abscess in 2005 which left me with a fistula. Last year I had an examination under anaesthetic (EUA) and a seton suture and malecott drain put in. The drain thankfully fell out 1.5 days later. However, I had the same thing done on 23rd March this year. I expected the drain to stay in for 2 weeks but 6 weeks later it is still in. Went in to hospital on 30th april for another EUA and (fingers crossed drain out!) But unfortunately they just put another drain back in! Got to have another EUA in 2-3 weeks. Not very happy as I can't work when I have got it in and have now been off for over 7 weeks.

Medication wise:

Currently taking Humira (have been for the last 2 years). Vitamin B12 injections.

Previously on Pentasa, Azathioprine (gave me hair loss), 6 MP, prednisolone, budesonide.

I have just changed doctors so am hoping that after having no real periods of remission we might be getting somewhere. However, saying this I have still managed to complete a nursing qualification, travel around the world and run guide groups.

 

[beth]

Welcome, another UK Crohnie!

Seton's and fistulae are a real pain, not surprised you can't work with the drain in.

 

[Crohn's 35]

Welcome to the forum, glad you found us, sorry you are having a hard time. Changing doctors can sometimes be a good thing. A fresh set of eyes can make a big difference. Hope you get some relief soon. Humira didn't work for me, and 2years is quite a long time. Keep us posted.

 

[Astra]

Hi Terri
and welcome fellow Brit (where are you?)

Sorry you're having such a bad time of it all, but glad you found us, feel free to vent or grumble wheneva!
Lots of support and advice for you.
And well done for all you've achieved!
See you around the forum
lotsa luv
Joan xxx

 

[Hedgehog]

Welcome Terri Ann,

I haven't had any absesses or fistulae but they sound awful. Hope you get some relief soon,
Gail
x

 

[Entchen]

Welcome! Wow, have you been busy, and accomplishing so much since being diagnosed with Crohn's! I'd love to travel the world some day. What is your favourite place to visit?

 

[terri_ann87]

Thanks for the support.

I live in South Yorkshire, UK.

My favouite place is India. I have been 3 times since diagnosis and not had any problems whilst out there. I must be lucky as I can eat hot and spicy foods no problem, in fact sometimes its the best things I can manage. Seems strange when its something that is usually suggested to be avoided.