Worried second daughter might have Crohns too

[Hope345]

My younger daughter, 14 was diagnosed with Crohns last January.
But other daughter 18 has been dealing with so many digestive issues. She has acid reflux, lactose intolerant, has lower pelvic pain, and now has green diarrhea. We had her checked several months ago, via blood test. but I believe that only shows if you are in a flare-it was negative. Wondering if we should wait to see if it is a bug, or bring her back in for another work up.
It is hard not to get that sick feeling, thinking it could be Crohns.

Needed to vent and would appreciate ANY comments. I am worried.
Bs Crohns did not start this way, however. She never had diarrhea, and bled from day one....

 

[Tesscorm]

It's certainly easy for the worry to overcome you! The worry jumps into my head too as soon as my daughter mentions the slightest symptoms! :ghug:

It seems there are a number of bugs going around, if nothing worsens, I don't think it would hurt to wait a day or two to see if the diarrhea ends on its own.

It's frustrating because crohns' symptoms can vary so much from person to person, another person's experience can be completely different from your own! :ymad: I'm guessing the blood tests were for inflammation markers - CRP and SED rate (or ESR)?? These may be elevated when there is inflammation in the body, however, it does not pinpoint that the inflammation is located in the bowels... it will reflect inflammation anywhere in the body (infections, etc. can also cause these numbers to be elevated). Also, there are many kids here whose blood results did NOT rise even though there was active inflammation! :voodoo: So, the blood tests are only one test that can suggest if something is going on...

HGB is usually included in blood tests - is she anemic? This can be another symptom of crohns (but, obviously, not always indicative of crohns). But, if she is anemic, is she on supplements? - these can cause green BMs.

If you have an upcoming apptmt with Baylee's GI, I would certainly discuss your concerns about your older daughter. Otherwise, if your daughter's symptoms persist or worsen, then I would speak to her doctor re additional testing and/or a referral to a GI.

Good luck!!

 

[Hope345]

thank-you for your comments. That all make sense and sounds good. I think my mind gets worrying so much, you dont think clearly.

I do have an appt this Friday with B's GI, so that is a great idea. hopefully by then, her symptoms will be gone (like a flu bug)

Just good to hear someones input-so appreciated.

 

[Farmwife]

Hugs, I know I watch Grace'd brother like a hawk. Both of Grace's dx's have a genetic component to show up more in siblings. Just one my worry to add to our plates.
No real advice, just hugs.

 

[Sascot]

I can see how you would worry about Crohn's since she does have alot of similar symptoms. Has she had a faecal calprotectin test done? If not at least it is a pain free test (embarresing collecting the poo though) and will show if there is inflammation in her intestines. Hope things settle down.

 

[RunningDownIBD]

Just sending hugs your way. I don't really have advice. My older daughter is convinced that she'll get Crohn's after she has a baby. It is so odd how it can present itself. My brother and I both have it. I was never sick a day in my life until after my pregnancy and then it was massive and quick. My brother was never really well....always had everything growing up. My son = same way as my bro. My daughter - same way as me. I just try my best to take it one day at a time! But, knowledge is power so I say follow your instincts, ask questions and if it starts really nagging at you - you're probably right! Mom's know best!

 

[my little penguin]

So btdt ....
We discussed with DS 's Gi ended up with older DS being scoped . He was clean but....
Still watching like a hawk at every odd Gi thing.
Our Gi would not discuss his older brother unless he was a patient .
Once he became a patient instant scope .

Good luck

 

[kimmidwife]

I soooo know how you feel! My little one has been having some testing and now my 12 year old has been having stomach issues. I am trying to stay in denial!

 

[Hope345]

It sounds like all of us moms have the same worries.
thanks so much for all of your support, it means a lot.

 

[Jer]

One of my worse nightmares, to pass this awefull illness on to my daughter. My sister, brother and myself all have Crohn's........I have it the worst, I win! lol

I dred that one day my little bubba will have it too.



I know I didn't ease your mind AT ALL, but do know that us daddy's worry too.

God bless, I hope everyting ends well.

 

[DustyKat]

Hey Julie...:hug::hug::hug:

Oh hun, I have so been there and now have the t-shirt to prove it. Ugh!

The presentation that my two had was total opposites. My daughter had no real classic signs and bloods and imaging kept returning normal results. My son had minimal symptoms and of very short duration but they were more classic when it came to pain and his bloods reflected every little thing.

I agree with raising it with the GI. You have valid concerns that need addressing. I don't see that it would hurt to pursue some of the non invasive tests at this stage, bloods and faecal, and then move on from there.

Does your daughter live at home?
If so then I would also start a diary to track her symptoms. It will help you piece things together and is invaluable when it comes to retrieving information, much better than the humble brain! :lol: If you haven't seen it already we have some suggestions in the wiki:

http://www.crohnsforum.com/wiki/Diary-Inclusions

...Also keep an eye out for any EIM's that may be present.

Having a child with Crohn's means there is a 30% chance that a sibling will also be affected. Now that still leaves a much greater percentage that won't be affected and for many families that 30% never rears it head.

Good luck with the appointment on Friday. I hope the GI is able to reassure you whatever way they proceed. :hug:

In my thoughts. :heart:

Dusty. xxx

 

[Hope345]

We all love and worry about our children (dad's too )

Thank-you all so much for the support.

Dustykat: I will check the link and have her start a journal. thank-you