Recently Diagnosed, seeking advice/info

[Tom91]

Hey guys, I was just diagnosed with what they think it ulcerative colitis and i'm trying to find out more about what I can expect down the line. I had been having bouts of severe stomach pain for the last month and just recently had two bowel movements containing bright red blood (which is what got me to the doctor). The only thing that had been really bothering me were the stomach aches, which were debilitatingly painful and really started to interfere with my life. Other than that, my bowel movements have been relatively normal. I've been having one a day for the past 2 months (when my symptoms first started), and just recently noticed blood.

I was wondering why exactly UC is considered so debilitating. Is it mostly because of the diarrhea? Or is it also severe stomach aches (which, thankfully the meds im on seem to be helping with). I've also read some scary statistics about 25-40% of people winding up having to remove their colon. How bad does the disease have to get before that happens? I've been on Omeprazole and levsin sl for a few days which seem to be helping with the stomach cramps. The only thing that is really worrying is the blood in the stool. I live a pretty active lifestyle and i'm worried that too much physical activity will cause me to bleed out internally or rupture something. My doctor hasn't given me too much information yet, and I can't seem to find more detailed information on the internet. Also is it possible that I'll develop diarrhea later on? I have a lot of questions... Thanks in advice to anyone who answers one, I really appreciate any info

 

[glum chump]

Hi Tom91

Welcome to the forum!

I have Crohn's and Indeterminate Colitis. The bright red blood that you're seeing suggests that your inflammatory activity is in the lower half of your colon or perhaps in your rectum.

UC is debilitating precisely, as you say, because of the abdominal pains, diarrhea, fevers, and so on. One of the differences between UC and Crohn's is that if you do have the diseased part of your colon removed, it cures UC. But if you can get your UC under control with meds and diet, then that would be great. I have had my colon removed (permanent ileostomy) and its the best I've felt in over 10 years and given me my life back.

In terms of the blood in your stool, you might want to get your doctor to check your bloodwork. One can get anemic fairly quickly, so do check your iron levels. Your physical activity shouldn't determine whether you bleed out (and if you rupture something, it will be because someone hurt you in the affected area rather than UC affecting you during your activity). The bleeding will happen regardless of your physical activity if that's the trajectory of your disease.

I would recommend that you check out the UC section of the forum. On the main forum page, you will see it right below the Diet and Fitness section. Folks there might have more detailed response than what I've offered.

I really hope that you can get your disease under control with your meds and continue on with your lifestyle as well as ever!

Cheers,

Kismet