Overdue Post

Crohn's Disease Forum

Help Support Crohn's Disease Forum:

Joined
Jan 31, 2012
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I found this forum several years ago when I'd first been diagnosed with Crohn's. Craps, blood in loose stool, Colonoscopy, biopsy, bingo. I was not real happy with the diagnosis(denial??) and searched the web frantically for information. I can say there are many folks here who have it much worse then myself. My dad had battled UC for many years. It almost killed him when he was into distance running ending up in the hospital for over a week losing about 40lbs. He did it as he was told he'd have a better chance of battling it the better physical shape he was in. I believe it caused more system stress through dehydration. Those years it seemed he was a Guinea Pig for whatever the specialist he saw thought would be best. Anyway, he is still alive, had his Colan and lower intestine taken out a few years ago with the bag set up. Good news no Cancer. So when I was told about the Crohn's, having seen what he went through for so long and where it is now I feared my future was mapped and I'd be heading down that same dark set of stairs.

So prescribed Asacol I asked the GI Dr. if there was anything in vitamins or supplements that could help and he said no. O.k., Asacol is not loaded with side effects but is daily and expensive. A couple years ago I found a Wood Tick on me and although it did not have the red circle, went to the DR to have it checked. They prescribed a huge antibiotic pill and was told not to go in sunlight and other precautions. Within two days blood in stool. Went to GI Dr. and was prescribed a suppository medication. Now I'm yet another step down the dark stairs. I've read flare ups can occur after taking antibiotics. I'd also read in PM or PS magazine about a study somewhere in Europe or Scandinavian where Crohn's patients given heavy doses of Probiotics significantly reduced symptoms. So I tried it and beginner's luck hit on one of the best (per my current Dr.) and in two weeks no bleeding, back to normal movements. Them ceased the suppository and Asacol and seemed in the clear. A gastrol bug going around this year nailed me, cramping, severe diarrhea, blood, back to square. I had been taking a different Pro-B from my original hero, switched back and on a new prescrip of Asacol.

White rice and Saltines for three weeks and still multiple daily urgent movements, gas, cramping, and periodic bleeding. Sick of the bland diet, I made some Garlic Texas Toast not sparing the Garlic. Next day cramps were gone, 1,2,3,4 days no bleeding while having pasta dishes with Garlic. Now back to normal self and just on the original Pro-B. I do not kid myself that the battle is really over, just postponed for now. I'll take it though. I wish the best for you all in your battles and encourage you not to give up. Everyone is different and keep searching for that combination that works for you or at least makes it bearable. Good luck!
 
Hiya Northwinds
and welcome

Great story! Really hope you stay well for a long time. Garlic is smashing stuff! I love it.
Antibiotics kill me! I try to avoid them like the plague, yet Metronidazole saved my life when I was in hospital, blocked and infected!
Enjoy the forum
lotsa luv
Joan xxx
 
Welcome, northwinds! So true - we never know what will happen next. I keep telling myself, at least we can live with this. There are a lot of things that people cannot live with - KWIM?
 
Hey there and welcome! As soon as you got to the point where you said "tick" I cringed as I new what was coming next and the result. Let me guess: Doxicycline?

Anyway, yes, your post was most overdue ;) I hope your next posts aren't so delayed.

I'm glad you've finally decided to take part. We're here for you anytime!
 
Hello and welcome, really pleased you have joined us at last :) I have seen probiotics mentioned on other threads and some do find them very helpful, fingers crossed things do stay settled for you. Please keep us updated on how you get on, hope to see you around the forum as well.
 

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