Newly Diagnosed and Blindsided

[Bikerchik]

Hello,
I'v suffered with symptoms my whole life. I'm a very young 50 year old, at least until yesterday. I had my last colonoscopy 5 years ago. The doctor told me I had inflammatory bowel disease, irritable bowel, gastritis and diverticulitis. I took the medication he prescribed me to take for four months as I was supposed too. I made some lifestyle changes and dietary changes too. I was doing ok until last Friday.
It started with pain on my left upper abdomen. Then the diarrhea. I ended up in the Dr on Tuesday and my primary care doctors on Wednesday. He called me yesterday and said after reviewing my CT from this week and my colonoscopy from 5 years ago he believes I have Crohns. He said my last two colonoscopies showed inflammation at the terminal ileum as well as ulcers. I was NEVER told this. I work in general surgery, this would have caught my attention.
I have another gastro appt next week. My mind is blown. I'm really sick. My bowels won't stop gurgling, the diarrhea won't stop even though I'm on a liquid diet and the pain is still there on the left side.
I'm angry, sad and confused. Any words of wisdom would be helpful.

 

[Kev]

Hi there....

I was officially diagnosed in my early 50's... and, at the time, I didn't know what Crohns was.. is.. I recall thinking, once I'd investigated it, found there was no 'cure' for it, that my life was over.. I was wrong. Life as I knew it was over, but my life with it went on, and much to my surprise.... life has been very good. VERY good. I would never have thought....

You have just been diagnosed... it is a shock... and you are flaring. You have a lot going on right now... and your emotional rudder really doesn't know what direction to choose.
First off, concentrate on getting things stable... under control... then look at your long term options... treatment options... diet, meds, specialists... Life does go on with IBD, and if you find the right options..... it can be a surprisingly good life. At least mine turned out that way. And I'm nothing special... if I can do it, then obviously anyone can, OK?

 

[PenguinVic]

Hi Bikerchik.

I was diagnosed 18 months ago, in my mid-40s. Like Kev, I thought my life was over. But having recovered from the flare, life is pretty good. The diagnosis prompted me to re-think my life and start to take some risks to realise my dreams. It hasn't been plain sailing, but my life now is actually more fulfilling than before. Hang in there, and concentrate on getting well for now. Life will get better. Sending you a big hug.

 

[pink&green]

Hello and :welcome: sorry you are having so much pain sending :ghug: your way. You definitely came to the right place lots of support and advice on here so don't hesitate to ask questions. Are you taking anything for pain if not call your Dr to see if they can call you in something till your visit. Please let us know how your Dr visit goes.