New, need advice

[garden girl]

I was diagnosed with collagenous colitis in March after a biopsy. I'm on 3 tabs of budesonide and 2 lialda/day. These do the trick. Tried cutting back on the bud, but get instant flare ups.
My questions:
Do we know the long term side effects of these drugs? I'm otherwise healthy (60's) and hate prescription meds.
Do such diets as Paleo and SCD have an effect on this condition? I have been faithfully sticking to diet for months now but can't tell if they are indicated for this particular disease or if they're having a positive effect. I have been a very healthy eater for 40 years. Removing whole grains, high fiber, and some veggies/fruit "goes against the grain".
I'm currently in flare up and feeling kind of desparate. I'm an active market gardener and this really takes it out of me...

 

[David]

Hi Garden Girl and welcome to the community. I'm sorry to hear your Collagenous Colitis is currently flaring I'm diagnosed with Lymphocytic Colitis which is basically the same thing. We have a microscopic colitis subforum located here if you're interested in joining us.

First of, SCD and Paleo are a VERY GOOD idea for people with either form of microscopic colitis. I say this because Celiac Disease is commonly overlapped with MC and even more common, gluten sensitivity. Cutting out soy is also an excellent idea.

Budesonide is a steroid. While it's not systemic like prednisone, long term use can still result in adrenal suppression and other complications. Here's the prescribing information if you want to read it (Budesonide = Entocort).

One supplement I suggest you think about trying is turmeric/curcumin. It has helped me a lot.

Again, welcome!