New to Crohn's...

[mbrown0133]

I am currently a second year graduate school student studying occupational therapy. I was diagnosed about one month ago with Crohn's disease. I was put directly on Humira injections because I had several ulcerations, strictures, and fistulas forming. It is like my entire life has turned up side down... I am about to start Purinethol (50mg) and I am hoping I will get some relief. I am very nervous because I am about to start my fieldwork for my program and can't afford to miss any. But I am so fatigued, sick from the antibiotics, and in pain from abscesses... Is there anyone else who has had a sever diagnosis and went into remission without surgery? I am currently terrified and would welcome any answers...

 

[Angrybird]

Hello and welcome to the forum.

I am sorry to hear that you have so many troubles at the moment, just to confirm do you know of the strictures are down to inflammation or scar tissue? How often are you see the docs about things and have they carried out any type of procedures for the fistulas and abscesses? I have not had either of these myself but we do have a sub forum dedicsted to these so please do check this out: http://www.crohnsforum.com/forumdisplay.php?f=76. Since being in the Humira have you noticed in any improvement in symptoms? Do you know if the docs have done any checks on your vitamin levels at all?

AB
xx

 

[Jessi]

:welcome:

I understand what you mean about your life being turned upside-down. It's quite a lot to swallow...

Good news: Believe it or not, life can get so much better again!! I, and many others here, are proof of that!

:hang: You're not alone. We're all here for you. Be strong. :hug:

 

[ForeverCrohns]

Hey Mbrown!

I hope you feel better soon and as Jessi had said I does get a lot better !

:hug:

 

[mbrown0133]

Angry Bird- I have saw some improvement since starting Humira but I have only taken two doses. Right now I am going to my doctor once a month and I have not had any procedures to deal with the abscesses or anything. He has me on Cipro and Flagyl right now for treatment. I just started taking the Purinethol because he said it was better to prevent the formation of those. I have not had any tests to check my vitamin levels either. Though I have not had any unexplained weight loss since I first experienced symptoms at age 12 (though I was not diagnosed until now at age 25).

Thanks so much for the words of hope! I really hope it does get better and it is nice to hear that it has for others =)

 

[David]

Welcome to the community! I'm so sorry you're having such a tough time of it

Where exactly are your fistulas and abscesses located? Certain kinds are more likely to close with medication and certain kinds are more likely to need surgery.

I agree with the others, definitely ask to have vitamin and mineral levels tested. Common deficiencies include vitamin B12, vitamin D, and magnesium (all of which can lead to fatigue) but the more they're willing to test, the better.

Again, welcome