Horrible gas pain during flare

by Amy
(Ann Arbor, MI)

I've had Crohn's for 21 years, 9 bowel/other resections, many, many flares, but recently, I'm having another flare. My question/problem is, I've been having horrible gas pain on top of the burning/tearing pain. The gas feels as if it just won't move, I'm very bloated and still having bowel movements about 5-12 times a day on Colestid. I haven't been eating dairy out of fear of ending up in the ER and high fiber as been out for years as I have a fat wrapping around my intestines that has caused me multiple bowel obstructions. Does anyone else have this problem during a flare? I've just never had a problem like this with non moving gas.

Click here to post comments

Join in and write your own page! It's easy to do. How? Simply click here to return to Ask A Question About Crohn's Disease.

32 yr. old woman with HORRIBLE Flare-up

by Sick and Tired
(Ontario, Canada)

I am writing on behalf of my daughter - who has been diagnosed with Crohns, Irritable Bowel Syndrome and Erythema Nodosum. We live in Ontario - Canada. She is 32 yr. old and was never ill a day in her life until the end of Sept./2010. Her life prior to that was a very busy one. She would go to the gym b/4 work every day....then go to work.....and then work with her students at a large equestrian facility....and ride her own competition horses. Her life has come to a SCREECHING halt !!! She has had 3 colonoscopies, a pelvic ultra-sound, an abdominal ultra-sound, and a CT Scan (where you drink the liquid and they follow it through you). She gets blood-work taken every week to monitor the inflammation levels in her body.....and right now we are waiting for her to be referred to a second G/I....so she can have the tube put down into her stomach....and if nothing new is seen....then perhaps the pill you swallow with the tiny camera in it -will be their next move. She is still on Prednisone (although this is being reduced by 1 tablet each week)....and she is on one of the 5 ASA's (called Mezavant)......and she is also on Morphine for the pain. She can no longer work....and can no longer teach her students or train her own horses. She is living at home with us. This flare-up has now been going on since the end of Sept. 2010....and it is now April 2011 (approx. 7 months later)....and still no end in site. Is there anyone else out there who has suffered with a flare-up this long??....and if so, what did you do or what medications did you use to help you through it? Thanks so much and any comments or suggestions you may have would certainly be appreciated. Signed by: The Mother of a Daughter............ who is Sick and Tired of being Sick and Tired !!!

Comments for 32 yr. old woman with HORRIBLE Flare-up

Click here to add your own comments

I been going through it too
by: Priceless1

I understand how you feel. I have been sick since 2007.This is when I first felt the worst pain of my life. I thought that I had food posion or something at first. The pain left and didn't come back for another year. This disease has really changed my life, I use to be a very active person, now I can't even work. I have tried several different treatments and nothing is working for me.I'm on entocort now,and we all know that steriods are not healthly. They can ruin other organs while you are trying to treat the condition you have. I have REALLY bad flare ups. I'm always at the ER. This is really starting to depress me. I just want my life back. I ask the doctor how did I get this disease, they never can give yoyu straight answers. No one in my family on either side has this disease. I am so fed up with the doctors and their weak treatment. I have started to keep a lot of solid foods out my life. I have been drinking plenty of ensure to replace meals. I also lay off a lot of meats and eat boiled chicken and baked fish alot. It seems like this is the only thing that helps me.Zergerid is also a good thing to take. 14 pills comes in a bottle you can buy those over the counter.I was not trying to accept the fact that no matter what you do or don't do, you're going to be in pain any way. This disease is a tricky one. I think there is really no way to control it all the way, you can only do so much to try to keep flare up down. I advise you to pray and pray and keep a very healthy diet. We can't let this control us, we got to control it.
There will be a light at the end of the tunnel
by: Chris

I'm been living with ulcerative colitis and Crohns for 5 years now. I was diagnosed when I was 18, at first it was the most difficult thing to live with, but you come to understand the disease and you start learning what your body needs. With regard to the flare ups, I know they can be super painful and it just disrupts your whole life. I don't know if you have a specialist which you visit for check ups? It would be good to built a good relationship with them since they are very helpful in times of crisis, by that i mean flare ups. They will then admit you to the hospitals quickly and start you off on a steroid drip as well as antibiotics with will help with the inflammation. Getting the flare up treated in the hospital is the fastest way to get it under control. Wise to get a proper diet once your stable. If all else fails there are specialist Crohns clinics in the UK. I take a product on top of all my meds which is very very helpful, though I do not know if you can find it in Canada? It is called LP299v. Good luck
Flare ups
by: Vanessa

I have 30 years old and was diagnosed when I was 17. I was in a flare up for a couple of years.... what helped me was the remicade. It is never easy, the impotant thing is that they will find the right treatment for and it will give her her life back... Do you know what part of her GI tract is affected? I am glad you are going for a second opinion... It is always good to see what another GI would do... Good luck
If you want to talk about it my Email adress is vanmtl1980@yahoo.ca
Crohns response re flare-up of 32 yr old
by: PetrBray@AOL.com

Watch out for steroid psychosis with Steroids!!--our experience!
Adult daughter Cathy,43 has had Crohns for 23 years--tried all the western meds to no avail---see www.crohns.org and www.johnes.org, become your own activist, she recently had a temporary looped ileostomy with bag and rectal-vaginal fistula surgery...become your own researcher..see the IBD videos on www.YouTube.com...e-mail me for more info, I wrote 4-6 columns for our local paper about Crohns...too little being done about it on a national/global level...too much money in hoky, ineffective meds---Join support groups, see what others have done, lobby your representatives in government...

Peter Bray, 68
Cathy's dad...

Benicia, CA (1 hr NE of SF)

Click here to add your own comments

Join in and write your own page! It's easy to do. How? Simply click here to return to Ask A Question About Crohn's Disease.

Tens Machine for Crohns flare up pain

by Fiona Rainbow
(Staffordshire England)

I am having a crohns flare up, my first major one since I was 18 yrs. I am now 37yrs. Luckily I have had a long period in remission. The pain is unbearable this time, however, I am managing to block the pain completely with my babycare TENs machine whilst I am trying the modulen ibd diet. I have been prescribed steroids but I didn't like the side effects when I was 18 and therefore I am trying to avoid taking them.
I just wanted to suggest the Tens Machine to anyone out there suffering the pain of crohns. I was up to 8 doses of co-codamol a day to try and control the pain and I think that they were making the symptons worse as they themselves are hard on the system.I now am only taking 1 dose of co-codamol before I go to bed to ensure a good nights sleep and to take a break from the Tens. I don't know what I would do without my Tens at the moment. I am using the Elle Babycare tens machine (it is the one I used during labour). I have had 3 boys during my time in remission and had no crohns symtoms at all during my pregnancies and all natural births.
I would always prefer to choose natural remedies over drugs however I know that this is not always possible. Has anyone had remission success from following a food combining diet.

Click here to post comments

Join in and write your own page! It's easy to do. How? Simply click here to return to Ask A Question About Crohn's Disease.

flareups

by melissa
(woonsocket ri)

It seems every year around September I have a flareup and lands me in the hospital. Does anyone think weather or change of seasons can affect flareups?

Comments for flareups

Click here to add your own comments

same time every year?
by: Anonymous

I've had chorns for 11 yrs now and for me its always march/april when I get it worst. I have no idea why, no alergies that I know of.

anyone else get bad flareups at the same time of year each year?

flare-ups
by: Susan

I agree.... I get worse in the fall during the change of seasons. I've noticed this for a long time.... For me, allergy season hits my gut.
Flareups
by: Anonymous

My daughter was diagnosed with Crohn's 5 years ago and like you around July/September every year she goes through a major flare and is usually hospitalized. I do think the seasons play a part in the flares.

Click here to add your own comments

Join in and write your own page! It's easy to do. How? Simply click here to return to Ask A Question About Crohn's Disease.

Low grade flare all the time and then spikes?

by Daniel
(Owensboro, KY)

25 years ago I was diagnosed with Ulcerative Colitis and it was so bad that I had my colon removed almost right away. I had a J-Pouch and tried to make that thing work for 16 years until I finally traded it in for an ileostomy. I was good for about five years and then had major surgery to have very impacted adhesions. At the same time my GI surgeon diagnosed me with Crohn's Disease rather than UC and retested to be sure. Since then I have had what seems to be a flare all the time and then it spikes about once a week or two or sometimes more often. I am on Humira and it has been better than the Remicade, but I still have joint problems and a great deal of stomach pain. Is it possible to have a low-grade flare all the time and then spikes sometimes every three or four days?

Click here to post comments

Join in and write your own page! It's easy to do. How? Simply click here to return to Ask A Question About Crohn's Disease.

Sudden painful flare ups

by Mary Anne

My 19 year old son was diagnosed with Crohn's this past January. He had been on prednisone and was gradually taken off of it as of 2 days ago. He has been doing very well with no pain until all of a sudden this evening he had a sudden flare up of significant pain. I gave him a darvocet as prescribed by his MD. Is there anything else that will help with the pain until I can call his MD tomorrow AM?

Comments for Sudden painful flare ups

Click here to add your own comments

re: Sudden Painful flare ups NEW
by: Mary Anne

Annette ..... thank you for your post/information. I posted my original comment about 2 and a half years ago or maybe more. We've had quite the roller coaster ride. Here's an update. Two summers ago my son went to Florida (from Pa) for his first college internship. Prior to leaving for Florida, he had a colonoscopy and check up with his GI. Colonoscopy showed no Crohn's Disease and my son was feeling good. One week after being in Florida for his internship, (over Memorial Day weekend) he developed terrible abdominal pain. Luckily he was staying with my brother and sister in law and they took him to the ER. He had tests, etc and was given meds for pain and was sent home at the end of the day. He was feeling better. Over the course of the next 2 days his pain came back and was terrible. My sister in law took him back to the ER and this time he was admitted. They were going on his stated diagnosis of Crohn's disease but were also considering a bowel obstruction. My husband and I flew down to Florida immediately. My son had an NG tube and IV's etc. Poor kid was miserable. Over the next week he seemed to be getting better but each time they tried to advance his diet from clear liquid he would have pain again. He had 2 terrible exacerbations of pain where it took the nurses a couple of hours to get it under control. My son was begging for surgery. We all went into the surgery thinking it was to remove a section of his bowel affected by Crohn's. Our very HAPPY news is that he did NOT have Crohn's ..... he had a fibrous adhesion wrapped around the outside of his intestine causing a very painful bowel obstruction. So, the surgeon removed the adhesion (he said it was like a guitar string wrapped around the intestine). The surgeon said usually people develop abdominal adhesions from previous surgeries, but my son never had surgery before. So, we're still not sure why he developed those adhesions and hope they never come back ! So, since that event, my son went back to college and graduated last May. He is now back in Florida working as areospace engineer at the same place where he had his internship.
Sudden Painful Flare-Ups NEW
by: Annette Young

Hello Mary Anne,

Thank you very much for your post, I am sorry to hear that your son has been diagnosed with Crohn's disease. 19 is still quite young to have this disease although many much younger are also being diagnosed.

You say that he had been on medication but was gradually taken off of it, can I ask why he was coming off of the medication if it was working? If he was having side-effects from the medicine, then I can understand why and then he should have been given something else to try. Or was he coming off of the drug because his symptoms were disappearing?

Usually, the doctors suggest that people stay on their medications especially if it is working and even when the symptoms are disappearing, they recommend a continuity of treatment because coming off of any medicine can actually cause a flare-up, and although I am not a doctor, it might be that this is what is happening.

Of course it is important that he sees the doctor as soon as possible, because there can be other things that is lurking within that may need to be identified.

When there is a lot of pain, it is best to eat very easy to digest foods such as soup because this gives the relevant nutrients and does not cause the same problems within the digestive tract. Some people like to have a hot water bottle or pad to place on the area that is feeling most pain and this can be quite soothing but it does not work for everyone.

It's important that he stays calm, although I can appreciate that is very difficult to do and it might be a good idea for you to jot down anything that he ate or has drank in the last few days, because it may be something that he consumed which is triggering off an attack.

The trouble is that everybody has different experiences with Crohn's disease and although the symptoms are similar, people respond to triggers differently.

I hope that he receives the necessary treatment and responds quickly.

Do let us know how he gets on.

Best wishes,
Annette

Click here to add your own comments

Join in and write your own page! It's easy to do. How? Simply click here to return to Ask A Question About Crohn's Disease.

Diarrhea- stomach flu or flare?

by John
(Mesa AZ)

My son was diagnosed with Crohn's Disease in October of 2011. He had a bowel resection in May of 2012 and is currently on Humira and Asacol. He has been doing remarkably well.

He started experiencing diarrhea ( a lot) 2 days ago and is now on day 3.
How do you differentiate a flare from the stomach flu? He has no stomach pain,
no temp and no blood in the stool? Not sure what to expect since he's never had a flare.

Any information yo could provide would be greatly appreciated.

Sincerely,

John

Comments for Diarrhea- stomach flu or flare?

Click here to add your own comments

Diarrhea -stomach flu or flare
by: Annette Young

Hello there,

I am sorry to hear that your son is feeling unwell. Having an unexpected bout of diarrhea can be quite worrying especially following a very recent diagnosis of Crohn’s.

It may well be just a simple case of diarrhea but of course if the symptoms continue then medical assistance should be sought. This should then give peace of mind or help if needed.

I would suggest that your son sticks to a very simplistic diet in the meanwhile-bananas for example are extremely good, but certainly nothing spicy and he should have small but regular light meals. He must avoid drinking any fizzy drinks as this will not help the situation and can make dehydration much worse. Plain water is the best drink that he can have during this time. Prolonged bouts of diarrhea can be quite serious so it is important that he keep a journal of how he feels, what he is eats and any other symptoms. This will help him should he have to go to see the doctor.

It is important that your son learns all he can about the Crohn's condition because if he can take the fear out of the condition this will help him to be able to deal with it going forward.

A lot of the problems associated with Crohn's disease is that it is a scary condition for so many people. It makes them feel helpless, isolated and afraid, and stress itself can cause flare-ups so it becomes a vicious cycle. So the more that each individual knows, the better it will be to put coping mechanisms in place. Flare-ups can be irregular and not occur for many weeks, months or even years but it is important that your son learns how to spot these warning signs and to identify any triggers.

Flare-ups can be really severe but they do not necessarily just affect the digestive tract as some sufferers experience severe inflammation in the joints as well.

Fingers crossed that it is just a case of diarrhea but I hope this helps.

Best wishes,

Annette
Diarrhea- stomach flu or flare?
by: Lydia D.

Dear John,

It is very difficult to tell whether or not it is a bug, food poisoning, a flare, etc.

I would encourage him to drink a lot and base his diet on the BRAT (banana, rice, apple mousse, tea and toast) diet when his diarrhoea is very bad. He should not be drinking sodas or fizzy mineral water.

Only time will tell. One does not necessarily have pain or blood in the stool with a flare. If he starts to lose weight quckly then he should discuss sipping Ensure or an equivalent enteral drink throughout the day - with plenty of water.

It would also be very helpful if he would keep a food/mood/medication/symptoms diary on his bad days. He should use the CDAI, the Bristol Stool Scale and the comparative pain scale wherever possible.
http://www.ibdjohn.com/cdai/
http://www.gutsense.org/constipation/normal_stools.html
http://www.pudendalhope.info/node/18

I hope that it just turns out to be a tummy bug and that he soon gets over it. There is naturally always the danger that a bug triggers a Crohn's flare. But, I don't want to scaremonger.

All the best,

Lydia D.


Click here to add your own comments

Join in and write your own page! It's easy to do. How? Simply click here to return to Ask A Question About Crohn's Disease.

Flare ups

Any suggestion on what to do for a flare up? And do you go to the Dr. everytime you hava a flare

Comments for Flare ups

Click here to add your own comments

Flare-up management NEW
by: Annette

Hello,

Thank you for your post. How to cope with any Crohn's disease flare-ups depend largely on the severity of it. Some are minor flare-ups and simply taking a bit more care and resting can suffice. Some flare-ups may require hospital attention though.

Crohn's is an autoimmune disease which begins in the small intestine. During a flare-up, the inside of the intestine would look sore and have clusters of ulcers. When you eat and drink, this can aggravate these sores so many people feel very low, are in pain and feel depressed during a flare-up.

Most people with Crohn's work hard to avoid flare-ups and when you start to realize how it affects you personally, it is easier to do this. Avoiding foods that are difficult to digest is important as is learning to deal with stress, exercising when possible and trying to stay positive. Flare-ups can last for days or even weeks.

Total bed rest is called for and it's wise to go on a clear-liquid diet. This means no snacking as the only way your bowels can get better is if they do not have to work at digesting food. No fizzy drinks, coffees or ice-creams. Just drink water and keep your body hydrated.

You may need hospital treatment but you most certainly might need advice or additional medication from the doctors so do so if necessary.If you have friends and family who are supportive, then they can at least help you through a bad flare-up. Never be afraid to ask for helpwhen you need it as Crohn's disease has a habit of making people feel isolated and depressed.

I hope that helps?

If anyone else has any advice on how to manage a flare-up, please do get in touch.

Click here to add your own comments

Join in and write your own page! It's easy to do. How? Simply click here to return to Ask A Question About Crohn's Disease.

Obstruction Flare Ups

I hear many people talk about flare ups being horrible diarrhea. I haven't had that. I get obstructed. Is this considered a flare up? Do many people experience this with Crohn's and what is the best way to get through it?

Comments for Obstruction Flare Ups

Click here to add your own comments

crohns in distal jejunum
by: Anonymous

I too, have crohns in the distal jejunum and also the terminal ilium. I am on Remecade and Imuran. The remecade works wonders, it has really helped me. I still have to be careful of what I eat. No pizza, raw fruits or veggies, red meats or anything that is hard to digest. Fish, chicken, protein shakes, cooked veggies , canned fruits are all okay. Obstructions are common for me once my remecade wears off and i'm do for my next dose. I've missed work, and I am a RN. The abdominal pain with crohns is difficult to deal with when you are trying to take care of patients.
Same problem
by: Anonymous

Just diagnosed two weeks ago after being constipated and bleeding for about four weeks. Doc has me taking Lialda. If there's not improvement in two more weeks he is prescribing steroids.

Wondering if anyone else has taken Lialda or steroids for obstructions and how long it took to be in remission.

thanks.
Obstructions and nutrition
by: Anonymous

I agree with you. We who have obstructions need to find out what food to avoid when we have our flares. I can't eat bananas at all, I can't eat apples, oranges or brocolli. I have to avoid a lot of vegetables, and the veggies I eat need to be cooked to death. Strawberries sent me to the ER. I have to be careful with red meat, but can have it if I chew it more than usually. Fish and poultry is ok.

My Crohns is in the distal jejunum, it's in the small intestines, a little bit further up than the terminal ileum is. Those who have Crohns in their TI often gets bouts of diarrhea, but those who have Crohns (10 %) in the jejunum often gets obstructions and vomiting instead of excessive diarrhea.
Obsruction Flare Ups
by: Anonymous

I also get obstructed, but my Gastroenterologist put me on a very strict diet. I cut big meals and try to eat small meals like 6 times a day. I cut red meat, bread gas forming foods, foods that does not ingestine good like peels, peas, nuts,corn. Start your day with pawpaw and a small bowl of oats, eat at 10h00 a fruit like banana, eat at 1pm some pasta, yogurt, eat st 3pm agsain a fruit, banana, pawpaw or a apple that is peeled. Eat at 5 -6pm, vegables, like pumkin, carrots, patato, sweet patato. Also you can have a piece of chicken without the skin that must be a bit juicy or a piece of steamed fich. My Gastroentrologist also put me on Normacol plus, 2 teaspoons that I am drinking with a lot of water and alos I am drinking a lump of aloe that is make my colon working regular every day, and prevent the obstructios.
I hope the information will help you

Click here to add your own comments

Join in and write your own page! It's easy to do. How? Simply click here to return to Ask A Question About Crohn's Disease.

Flare Ups

by Anthony
(Canada)

Is the anything that I can take to help me deal with a flare up?

Comments for Flare Ups

Click here to add your own comments

Flare-Ups NEW
by: Annette Young

Hi there,

Thanks for writing in with your question.

It is not so much what you can take to help with the flare-ups but more what you can do to avoid them. Unfortunately Crohn's disease has the power to completely disrupt your life and can suddenly flare-up for seemingly no reason. There are usually underlying causes as to why it does so however. Namely - the food or drink consumed. It is important with this disease that you find out what you can and can't eat or any potential triggers that can spike an aggressive bout of pain.

It's also knowing how the condition affects you on a personal level so that you can be intuitive and proactive with your approach to living as normal a life as possible. Dairy products are a problem for some but spicy foods, alcohol, smoking and fibrous foods can be difficult. The best thing to do is to start eliminating certain food types so that you can work out which foods or drinks are causing the problems. The idea is to have easy to digest foods which may seem a bit bland but will prevent some of the pains.

Stress can also cause flare-ups so if possible, eliminate as much stress as you possibly can as this can also help to reduce the flare-ups.

Here are some links that may be useful:

http://www.health.com/health/gallery/0,,20559874,00.html

http://www.healthline.com/health-slideshow/crohns-disease-power-foods

I hope this helps.

Annette
co codomol
by: donna

co codomol helped me loads this week!
co codomol
by: donna

co codomol helped me loads this week!

Click here to add your own comments

Join in and write your own page! It's easy to do. How? Simply click here to return to Ask A Question About Crohn's Disease.

getting a flare up under control

by Stacey Key
(Sydney, Australia)

I was diagnosed 7 years ago. The longest medicated clear stretch is about 8 months for me. I am 33, on imuran for the second time since sep last year, i am having flare up at the moment for which i am taking cortisone. It always seems that when i get down to 25 - 20mg per day - the symptoms become acute again - i have been through this with my docs so many times and i know with being careful, resting, eating right is comes right eventually. My question is - does anyone have any suggestions on how to keep it under control for the last few weeks on the cortisone? No suggestions will be too small! Im really interested to know how other manage this part of a flare up. Its been 2 months since the symptoms returned and Im really wanting to get it under control and keep it that way.
Stace

Comments for getting a flare up under control

Click here to add your own comments

Getting a flare-up under control NEW
by: Annette Young

Hello there,

Thanks for writing in. I was interested to read your post and just wanted to ask if you are reducing your medication yourself or if this is on the advice of the doctor? I can understand that having a flare-up is frustrating and painful, but I am wondering if it is connected the fact that you reduce or come off of your medication.

In most cases, it is sensible to stay on your medication as this keeps it under control. You are absolutely right however in that eating the right diet will make a difference. Do you find you tend to eat a more varied diet or lapse off of a sensible eating plan when your crohn's is under control?

You will probably have trigger foods that set off a reaction - such as abdominal cramps, gas, bloating, cramping pains and diarrhea.

Here is a list of foods that should be avoided and can be reintroduced gradually if you wish to determine any potential triggers. Alternatively keep these foods out of your diet altogether.

alcohol
butter,margerine, oils and mayonnaises
soft drinks
tea, coffee
dairy
fried foods
fibrous foods
lentils, cabbage, onions, broccoli, beans
seeds
nuts
raw veggies
red meat
spicy foods

It is worth keeping a journal of all of the foods that you eat and any liquids you drink. This may well identify your triggers providing you also detail how you feel each day.

I have attached a link that might be of use to you:

http://www.webmd.com/ibd-crohns-disease/crohns-disease/creating-a-crohns-disease-diet-plan?page=2

But you can also try relaxation techniques to ensure that you eliminate any tension from your body and this includes anxiety too which is another trigger.

I hope this helps,

Annette

Click here to add your own comments

Join in and write your own page! It's easy to do. How? Simply click here to return to Ask A Question About Crohn's Disease.

Missing work because of Crohn's flareup.

by Kathleen
(Victoria, BC Canada)

I'm wondering how to deal with this. I've missed a lot of work in the last 5 months due to Chron's related flare ups. I've heard that there are some who can't work at all and wondered if I'm facing this possibility?

I've worked most of my life since I was 16,(I'm 47 now) put in lots of overtime when needed and never complained. But now I'm not sure what to do.

I've had my own business in the past and wondered if I should think about quitting my job and working from home?

I know nobody can tell me what to do, just wondered if anyone else has experienced the same thing and if there are any programs available for Crohn's survivors to pursue working from home?

I live in British Columbia, Canada so if anyone knows of any programs offered here I would appreciate the help!

Comments for Missing work because of Crohn's flareup.

Click here to add your own comments

Work and Crohn's NEW
by: Annette

Hello there,
I am sorry to hear that you are struggling with Crohn's disease and that it is affecting your work. As you know, Crohn's disease can be all-consuming especially when flare-ups occur and many sufferers find it difficult to sustain their work-load and in some circumstances, even to keep their jobs.

It helps if you have an understanding employer and one that you feel able to confide in. Many sufferers tell me that they find it embarrassing to have to explain the nasty side-effects of Crohn's let alone have to try to continue to work when they feel so fatigued.

Sometimes the hardest thing is talking about it but with that can come a sense of relief. Perhaps you will be able to work at home some of the time and go into work on those days when you feel fine? Potentially you can make it worse by worrying about how you are going to be at work. If you have a particularly stressful job, it can be an idea to work out how to cope with your reaction to stressful environments. This is not going to cure the disease of course but it can reduce the stressful triggers which can cause flare-ups.

In the UK alone, about one in ten people who have had the disease for over five years are unable to work, so from these figures you can see that you are not alone in struggling.

If you can work from home, you can certainly take the pressure off of yourself and adapt your working hours to how you feel - one day at a time. It can be harder to self-motivate however if you are used to be around others in your work environment but at least you won't have to worry about trying to hide how you are feeling.

Some people consider re-training so that they can still work but can have hours that suit them more and other sufferers are able to carry on. Remember that Crohn's is an individual disease in how it can impact you. Flare-ups can also become few and far between giving you a degree of normality so there may be months or even years where your symptoms fade and you can carry on working, but it is always wise to be prepared for those times when you cannot.

Worrying about it can certainly make it worse but once you have made a decision, you will feel better and can plan how you are best going to be able to cope.

If anyone has any tips for working with Crohn's, please do comment, I would love to hear from you.
working
by: Anonymous

Hi
i really believe most people understand if you are unwell and give you space to do your thing. Your biggest critic is yourself. i think the disease brings you gifts and depth in your personality which can be an asset in most work places.
cheers
mb
I understand
by: Nikki

Hi sweetheart,

my name is nikki. im 22. and i had to quit cheffing because i was diagnosed with crohn's disease. I cant say i like being at home because you get depressed. but physically i cant work the hours i need to atm. so im looking at studying courses to occupy my mind. and get out of the house. i would advice you to get part time at the work place and part time at home if possible. just so you are not always at home doing the same thing day in day out.

good luck and keep in touch

always Nikki
Missing work...
by: Peter Bray

My daughter Cathy, 43 has been on disability with Crohns for 23 years in California, survives on Social Security Insurance---hardly enough to get by but she's wise as an economizer---Recently had surgery for a recto-vaginal fistula and now has a temporary, looped ileostomy and an external waste bag on her hip, hoping with probiotics and aloe vera her colon will heal...we've tried all other useless western meds in 23 years to no avail--I'm reading a new book by a Crohns survivor, Cliff Kaliibjian, "Straight from the Gut: Living with Crohns & Ulcerative Colitis" you can get it new or used, paperback from Amazon.com, $23 new, less if used...

E-mail me at PetrBray@AOL.com and I'll send you my free 9 columns on my 23 years experience as an advocate and medical historian and lay researcher for my daughter--Good luck---it's a nasty disease but others are working at solutions in New Jersey, AU, England, Oregon, AU, etc--you have to be your own advocate and research on the Internet and with suppirt groups--pb

Click here to add your own comments

Join in and write your own page! It's easy to do. How? Simply click here to return to Ask A Question About Crohn's Disease.

Need to know about flare ups

by samuel
(lakeland fl)

what causes flare ups

Comments for Need to know about flare ups

Click here to add your own comments

Need to know about flare-ups NEW
by: Annette Young

Hello there,

Flare-ups are part and parcel of Crohn's disease I am afraid. Some people have very aggressive bouts of discomfort and feel generally very ill and this can seemingly go on for weeks and months, day in and day out with little respite.

Suddenly out of the blue, the disease seems to go into a remission period and life can almost return to normal with the sufferer feeling so much better and pain-free. Months or even some years later, flare-ups can occur and as the disease affects people on a very individual basis, it is impossible to say what causes the flare-ups.

Although the symptoms and the basis of Crohn's disease may seem similar, people react differently to triggers. Common triggers are:

• Smoking
• Drinking alcohol
• Eating spicy foods
• Dairy products
• Stress

Although Crohn's is incurable, there are ways to manage it and simply, this means living as holistic a life as possible. This does not mean that you will never experience a flare-up again but you can at least bring a sense of balance to your life and take control of the reins again, rather than your having to fight the disease constantly.

Personally I am a strong believer in keeping a food Journal so that you can ascertain what triggers may have occurred by looking back at your diet within a 2-3 day time-frame. I would also suggest that you add external triggers - arguments, financial pressures, stresses at work etc.

Unfortunately, as fast as the disease can go into remission it could easily start up again and so, being prepared is important. You will know what signs to look out for and will have a management plan in place.

If anyone has any tips on managing flare-ups, do write in and let us know.

Best wishes,
Annette
RE: WHAT CAUSES FLARE UPS
by: Becky

Mine was bread and tomatoes ant stayed away from all bran hi fibre foods.
flare ups
by: Tod

There are so many different stimuli that can cause a flare up. It can be as simple as diet and as complicated as environmental. You need a really good, almost intuative GI doctor to research what causes yours, because that will be the key to how to treat the symptoms successfully!

Click here to add your own comments

Join in and write your own page! It's easy to do. How? Simply click here to return to Ask A Question About Crohn's Disease.

flare ups

by cindy
(australia)

i have just start a jobs and my chrons is badly flaring up is caused due to my job

Click here to post comments

Join in and write your own page! It's easy to do. How? Simply click here to return to Ask A Question About Crohn's Disease.

building yourself up whilst suffering a flare up

by Neecie
(Liverpool)

i am having a flare up, the second this year, and cannot afford to lose any more weight, any suggestions?

Comments for building yourself up whilst suffering a flare up

Click here to add your own comments

Building yourself up whilst suffering a flare up NEW
by: Annette Young

Hello,

Thank you for your post. I am glad you have taken the time to write in, I can appreciate this must be a difficult time for you if you are having flare-ups.

There is no set answer unfortunately as Crohn's tends to affect people very differently but this is a common problem. Most people lose weight with this disease and are often only to regain the weight when the disease has gone into a period of remission. Some people have found that the protein shakes work for them but be careful of any shakes if they have any milk substances. I know many people with Crohn's who have found that they are also lactose intolerant. If you are fine with dairy products, then this might be useful.

The most important thing to establish is whether you are getting enough nutrients. if not, this is the area that you need to work upon. If you are suffering with chronic diarrhea or being sick, then you might find that your absorption rate is down.

Other people with similar problems tell me that they gain weight because they eat more of the foods that will not cause a problem for them and eventually, weight starts to go back on.

I would suggest you seeing a nutritionist if you can manage to as dietary advice would be really useful.

I'm sorry there is no definitive answer, it is trial and error and what works for one person may not work for you.

Best of luck,

Annette

Click here to add your own comments

Join in and write your own page! It's easy to do. How? Simply click here to return to Ask A Question About Crohn's Disease.

Flare Up

My son was diagnosed with Chrons a few weeks ago. He has been feeling very bad for 3 months. He is now on medication that is supposed to help him, but I really don't think it is doing anything.

He has bad stomach pains a couple of times a week. What should I do when this happens?

Comments for Flare Up

Click here to add your own comments

Flare-up NEW
by: Annette

Hi there,

I am sorry to hear that your son is having such a hard time. I understand that he is now on medication and hopefully this should settle things down, if it does not though, he needs to seek further medical advice from the doctors. There are different medications and not every type suits every individual.

One of the important things you can do to help your son is to keep a journal - a record if you like of how the disease affects him. There may be specific triggers you see- things that he is doing, or eating or drinking that is aggravating the condition. There are many things that can make a condition worse but I would start looking at his diet to see if he has eaten any spicy foods or has a lot of dairy products.

Some Crohn's sufferers find that they are lactose intolerant and this can be an aggravator.

At one time people thought that stress and food were the causes of Crohn's disease but this is not the case at all. Stress and food are triggers. Keep a food diary and note down everything that has been consumed. If a flare-up is occurring then, it is best to not eat during that time. A plain liquid diet will help the intestines to settle and to heal. This means water and not fizzy drinks. If you can imagine, the intestine can often become very sore and ulcerated so any food or drink that is having to be digested, will make those sores even more sore.

The more detailed your record the better advice you will get from the doctors. In a way, you are helping them to help you. Never be afraid to ask for help, Crohn's can be particularly aggressive and difficult to deal with but the good news is, that once it settles, your son may have long periods of time without pain or discomfort. The trick is knowing how to deal with it and how to still enjoy life.

I hope this helps and wish your son to have some relief from the condition.

If anyone else has any other suggestions, please do offer your support.

Click here to add your own comments

Join in and write your own page! It's easy to do. How? Simply click here to return to Ask A Question About Crohn's Disease.

HOW CAN I STOP MY FLARE UP

im on remicade (infliximab)foe 4 years now and still have severe diarrhea and wind.It usually clears up by 3 weeks,but this time it's lasting 8 weeks.
Are these called flare ups?
Can anyone out there give me any advice

ANNE C.

Comments for HOW CAN I STOP MY FLARE UP

Click here to add your own comments

Education NEW
by: Anonymous

The natural sciences are very important and inevitable he computer and internet are very important for the acquisition of knowledge and theories. The professional dissertation writers have been getting education since centuries and they are now days becoming equipped with the latest technology and advancements.
Flare-up NEW
by: Annette Young

Hello,

Crohn’s disease is a volatile and aggressive disease and it affects people very differently and it is clear to see evidence of this from this thread. Everyone who suffers with crohn’s has their own unique experiences but here is my input:

I am a firm believer in treating the body and mind as holistically as possible and without doubt, eliminating certain foods or reducing or stopping drinking or smoking is helpful. It's a sensible course of action and is a practical approach.

Sometimes the disease is aggressive and seemingly without cause or reason. Whatever your viewpoint, it is vital that you seek medical assistance if flare-ups start to become more aggressive, or if your symptoms change.

For those that think they might have crohn’s – again, medical assistance please. Take medical advice but give doctors as much assistance as you can by way of detailed information as to when you experience flare-ups, what you have eaten, were you experiencing greater stress that day for example?

If you had a hot spicy curry and then suffered from a flare-up, you might anticipate that your body is reacting badly but everyone reacts differently and that’s what makes crohn’s a difficult disease to cope with.

Crohn’s is a disease however and one without a cure so considering all options is a good idea. Don’t get taken in by miracle cures, live as naturally and simplistic as possible and look after yourself.If you want to try something to test out if it is of use then do so, just be sure to make an informed decision before rushing in and only try one thing at a time.

There is no known cause or cure but there are triggers and understandably food can put so much pressure on the digestive tract and problems can ensue as a result. But you have to eat healthily all the same. Pureed foods are an excellent idea – soups such as pumpkin or parsnips are nutritious but quite kind as regards digestion, salmon or chicken are packed full of proteins and can be cooked to ensure they digest easily. Eggs are nutritious but go for scrambled eggs rather than fried.

Flare-Ups’ can last any number of days or weeks but if you are getting worried about it, do try to seek medical assistance in case you need your medication changing or if anything else is occurring. In the meanwhile, look after yourself and try to remember that in between the flare-ups you may feel much, much better and this gap in between bouts of pain can lengthen. Some people go weeks, months and even years so there is hope.

I hope that helps.

Best wishes,
Annette
Crohn's disease NEW
by: Anonymous

guys, for immediate results try coconut water (2-3 times a day)or virgin coconut oil(1 tbsp after meal)...It really helps..Coconut is very very good for crohns...I have Crohn's for 3 years but I take fresh coconut water regularly and am very satisfied with the result..the results are immediate...

here is a thread where I contributed MY name is Rohit ..Also check posts by Daisy

To the Anonymouses! NEW
by: Kit Campbell

Just to add ...
If you have such conviction that you KNOW all there is to know about Crohns Disease, why would you have any fear in looking into alternative paths, especially something as simple as changing your mindset?!
As you obviously like to 'own' your identity as someone who suffers with Crohns Disease, I totally understand and accept that :)
However, if something isn't working well for you, why would you not want to investigate other avenues?! It seems insane not to!! :)
You have nothing to lose and everything to gain.
Some people like to suffer and there are many that do, due to a life of suffering. If this is you, then keep on believing what you do and keep on doing what you are doing.
If you want change, look for it. Don't just blindly believe the medical profession. Just because they have read books and passed exams, they do not know everything.
I wish you guys the best in your journeys!
Flare ups NEW
by: Josie

Hi Anne C, I have had Crohn's since childhood and I am in the mid 60s, had gone through many diff flare-ups and no two seemed to be of the same duration. I had a resection after it just would not stop and I ended up in ER. But in the meantime I had tried like listing what causes instant D. And again for every flare-up it was not the same, except maybe popcorn,corn, fatty foods and milk just by itself (don't go by my list, has to be your own). Not saying this will work but I also resorted to fish oil in later years which I think helped me a bit. Best is to consult you specialist that put you on those meds. If you are not happy with that specialist maybe you can switch to another?? I had luck that way but not everyone can be so lucky. There are other crohns forums too, best is to talk to those that have had many experiences with diff flare-ups. Best of luck and hopefully something will easy your situation.
Flare ups NEW
by: Josie

Hi Anne C, I have had Crohn's since childhood and I am in the mid 60s, had gone through many diff flare-ups and no two seemed to be of the same duration. I had a resection after it just would not stop and I ended up in ER. But in the meantime I had tried like listing what causes instant D. And again for every flare-up it was not the same, except maybe popcorn,corn, fatty foods and milk just by itself (don't go by my list, has to be your own). Not saying this will work but I also resorted to fish oil in later years which I think helped me a bit. Best is to consult you specialist that put you on those meds. If you are not happy with that specialist maybe you can switch to another?? I had luck that way but not everyone can be so lucky. There are other crohns forums too, best is to talk to those that have had many experiences with diff flare-ups. Best of luck and hopefully something will easy your situation.
flare ups NEW
by: Anonymous

i completely agree with anonymous comment number 2 (pardon the pun) doctors are the only people who can currently help with something as serious as chrons disease. no good second guessing waaaaaaaay to dangerous gp gastronentroligist and surgeon these are the three most important words

peace
Dear Annonymous! NEW
by: Kit Campbell

Hi Annonymous!
I'm sorry that you suffer so much, that you need to belittle anothers experience of Crohns. But I totally accept that is the way that you think :)
I would never say to anyone NOT to see a specialist, or not to take medication, or not to have surgery if that is what is needed.
What I do say is that if you change the way that you think, you may find, for you, that your Crohns Disease (that will never be cured) may not raise its ugly head so often :)
For sure I had Crohns and much bowel removed. Everyone is totally entitled to their opinion, as well as you and yours :)
However, the ability to put forward your opinion and not put another down ... hmm, I think that would be a better way to be :)
I wish you, Annonymous, all the best and freedom from your suffering, especially in your mind :) You never know, your body might follow :)
Believe and it shall be healed? NEW
by: Anonymous

Although I too know that stress and thoughts of ill stuff can make things worse for the flare-ups of my crohns. That is not so simple for most. Yours, Kit Campbell (or who ever it is on youtube,) might be like mine that just flared up here and there and 40 years of nothing...but it just does NOT go away just like magic or by some FOUND routine. So to make others suffer and think that diet and oh such and such can CURE it...there is no cure for crohns. Also if biopsy not taken of the ulcer than it can well be other than crohns so then it's easier to stop other things maybe with whatever might make flare-ups stop for good. People with Crohn's go and seek the best Specialist to help you out and not something on Youtube.
Ask what is happening BEFORE your flare ups!! :) NEW
by: Kit Campbell

Colitis, Ulcerative Colitis, Crohns Disease, Ileitis ...... they are all just names for inflammation that is happening in the gastrointestinal tract.
Do not buy in to the whole 'doctor' story that you have a disease.
You have DIS-EASE.
If you need medication - take it
If you need a procedure - do it
This will sort out the symptoms ... BUT NOT THE CAUSE.
The medical industry will keep you believing that you have a disease, to keep you a customer of their solutions. Medications.
Find out your cause, what's going on in your mind and prevent the symptoms from there :)
Go to youtube and search Kit Campbell or Welcome to IBS. I share freedom from 40 years of suffering Crohns Dissease. I have it NO MORE :)
You can make a difference for yourself :)

Click here to add your own comments

Join in and write your own page! It's easy to do. How? Simply click here to return to Ask A Question About Crohn's Disease.

Feel a flareup coming on

by Noah
(London, Ontario, Canada)

I was diagnosed with Crohn's disease in 2007 (age 19) after a period of pain and bloody stools. I was put on Asacol but still felt unwell for a few months until my dosage was increased by a lot. I mildly altered my diet and over a period of 2 years I slowly reduced my doasge until I was eventually taking no medication. I lasted a year with minor symptoms that I wouldnt consider a flare-up. Last year in april I had a flare up and didnt go to my doctor until I got really sick and passed out a few times in my apartment. I started to eat foods that were much easier for digestion and the pain seemed to go away however I was tired, light headed and couldn't do any strenuousf exercise. A new GI put my on prednisone and I got better, slowly weening myself off the drug over a period of 2 months. Again I went 8 months with only mild symptoms but in the past few weeks I have been getting worse. Noticing blood in my stool and light-headedness again. Right now I am ingesting mainly liquids and foods that are easy on digestion. I feel that I can control the pain but am extremely tired and lightheaded. A lot of people on the internet recommend more iron or B12, however my GI explained to me that it is most likely not an iron deficiency but systemic inflammation causes bone marrow to restrict the production of red blood cells and the only way to reverse this is to stop the inflammation. I haven't seen my GI about this flare-up yet because he is very pro-medication and I would like to stay off the drugs if I can. Today I started taking asacol again. In addition I have been smoking marijuanna almost everyday since I was 14 years old. I am now 24. I still don't know if this helps or hinders my condition and I have never told my GI docs. I am a frim believe in meditation and visualization as a way to heal, but in order to do this one must be strict with a routine and focused. I am not writing to look for an answer, just to add to the wealth of knowledge about Crohns disease and individual cases. Maybe someone with a similar case will have some advice for me. I sympathize with all of you and wish you success in the future.

Peace, Love and happiness stuff.

Comments for Feel a flareup coming on

Click here to add your own comments

Feel is a flare-up coming on NEW
by: Annette Young

Hey there,

Thank you for writing in and sharing your story. I can sympathizIse with your situation and your desire to try and cope with the disease as naturally as possible. I come from a natural health background and always feel that there must be a way of coping with any disease without resorting to prescribed drugs.

I do feel that Crohn's disease is a little different though and maybe it is because it is so aggressive and incurable (at the moment anyway).So you have to do what you can to manage the condition. I think accepting the diagnosis is useful as opposed to fighting against it, because it allows you to move forward and look for answers.

it was interesting that you found by monitoring your diet more that the symptoms eased and I do believe that food can cause adverse reactions. The trick is to try and make the food you eat as easy to digest as possible. Eliminate spicy foods and opt for soups, mashed potatoes even pureed foods and these can really help. Simple is best.

I'm glad that you enjoy meditation, I also have great belief that this can help boost inner healing and help to manage stress levels. Stress is another huge trigger that can cause flare-ups so if you can keep the stress and any anxiety to the minimum, this should also help.

Try this link for alternative medication.

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/crohns-disease/DS00104/DSECTION=alternative-medicine

You can also have a look at this link too.

http://www.listentoyourgut.com/symptoms/14/crohn-s-disease.html

Hope this is useful for you.

Best of luck,

Annette

Click here to add your own comments

Join in and write your own page! It's easy to do. How? Simply click here to return to Ask A Question About Crohn's Disease.

How do you tell your boss you are having a flare up and need time to recover?

by dez korn
(Raleigh, NC)

How do you tell your boss you are having a crohn's flare up? I am currently having the worst flare up I have ever had and it has really taken it's toll on me. This is not an easy disease to talk about for me anyway. I find it rather a tough subject to talk about even with my doctor.

Comments for How do you tell your boss you are having a flare up and need time to recover?

Click here to add your own comments

How do you tell your boss? NEW
by: Annette Young

Hello there,
Many people feel the same as you and prefer not talk about this disease. I can completely understand that having a conversation about chronic constipation or acute diarrhea is not the most pleasant of topics and when you are suffering a severe flare-up, you just want to be alone and to deal with in your own way.

Having said that, there is not enough communication about Crohn's disease. The very nature of Crohn's makes it a secretive disease and as such there can be little understanding. Some years ago I worked as a member of the human resources team and I do recall that we were very sympathetic to those with health problems including those with Crohn's disease who often suffered with erratic hours as a result of the inconsistency of symptoms. We made our policy to have an open door approach and no subject was taboo.

if I was in your situation right now, I would collect any leaflets on the disease and do some background research and make an appointment to see my boss and provide all the information so that he or she could read up on it and have an in-depth understanding of how difficult it can be to work with the disease. You will then be able to eradicate the need to talk about the intricacies of the condition and focus on other elements.

It is important that they understand that stress and anxiety can actually make it far worse, so by your being open you can also strip away the potential for the anxiety to trigger further flare-ups. It will seriously feel like a relief and a weight off your shoulders once you are open about it all.

I know it won't be easy if you do feel embarrassed about how it affects you but once you have taken this first step, you may find that your employers are a whole lot more understanding. Honesty really is the best policy.

I have attached a link that may be of use.
http://www.everydayhealth.com/crohns-disease/5-ways-to-deal-with-crohns-at-work.aspx

I hope this helps and I wish you the best of luck,
Annette
Tell your boss
by: Rich

The best thing you can do is tell your boss about your situation. Maybe even give him / her some information about it, or have them look up some things online. Nobody seems to really understand until they do a little research. Hopefully your boss will have a little empathy for the situation and will be able to withstand the time you are off. In these tight times, it's tough. I work with a Crohns sufferer and she is out alot, but we can deal with it. Best of luck to you and your health.

Click here to add your own comments

Join in and write your own page! It's easy to do. How? Simply click here to return to Ask A Question About Crohn's Disease.

Crohn's Flare Up after Having a baby

by Jen
(Keswick, Canada)

Wondering if anyone else had a huge flare up post pardum?

Comments for Crohn's Flare Up after Having a baby

Click here to add your own comments

after birth
by: Christal

i am 32 and have 2 children that are 17mo apart. i have had crohns since i was 15yrs old. i had pretty major flares after giving birth to both of my boys :( i started feeling bad about 3wks post postpartum w/ both births.
REPLY
by: Anonymous

Yes I would like to chat with you sometimes. I have just had another surgery 4 weeks ago and I am still healing. I will add you to my email addresses if you don't mind. Mine is tinygo@comcast.net
I Kno how you feel.
by: Suzanne

Id my son at 16, hes now 4, healthy and gorgeous... But 2 months after id a flare up, had to be admitted to hosp. It lasted 8 days, it was horrendous ill never forget it. The next was on Jaykes 1st birthday of all the days after that evening id to go into hosp again.. If you need to chat, Suzzanne2138@yahoo.ie
flare up after delivery
by: Cindy

I have had Crohn's for 26 yrs. First diagnosed after having my first child. I just kept losing weight, pooping blood and went to several doctors before I found one who sent me to a gastro who put me in the hospital for a month, did biopsy etc. and made the diagnosis. When I found out I was pregnant the second time I stopped my maintainance drug for the whole pregnancy and I stayed in remmission through the pregnancy. It didn't hit me with my second delivery until my son was approximately 9 months old- the doctors thought I wasn't going to have a recurrence because they said it usually comes back approximated 3-6 months after delivery. But it did.
fish oil for crohns disease
by: bec

HI HOPE I CAN HELP I WAS FIRST DIAGNOSED WITH CROHNS AT 14 AND HAD MAJOR SURGERY I AM NOW 33 WITH 3 KIDS I FELT GREAT WHEN PREGNENT 2 BIRTHS WERE FINE BUT HAD FLAIR UP AFTER 3rd BUT DEPENDING ON HOW YOUR CROHNS IS U SHOULD B OK MIND U I WAS ON A LOW DOSE OF STEROIDS WHEN PREGNANT YOUR MIND IS YOUR WORST ENIMY 2 IF NEED CHAT
fish oil for crohns disease
by: bec

HI HOPE I CAN HELP I WAS FIRST DIAGNOSED WITH CROHNS AT 14 AND HAD MAJOR SURGERY I AM NOW 33 WITH 3 KIDS I FELT GREAT WHEN PREGNENT 2 BIRTHS WERE FINE BUT HAD FLAIR UP AFTER 3rd BUT DEPENDING ON HOW YOUR CROHNS IS U SHOULD B OK MIND U I WAS ON A LOW DOSE OF STEROIDS WHEN PREGNANT YOUR MIND IS YOUR WORST ENIMY 2 IF NEED CHAT
Crohns after pregnancy.
by: Mandy

Hi Jen, My Crohns flared up hugely after my son was boy. Everytime I breast feed him and my uterus would contract I needed to run off to the toilet. Whilst pregnant I was on no medication and the Crohns seemed to be at bay, needless to say breast feeding didnt last very long as my poor screaming son had to wait along time for feeds while I was running back and forth to the toilet.

Click here to add your own comments

Join in and write your own page! It's easy to do. How? Simply click here to return to Ask A Question About Crohn's Disease.

Major flare up...

by Michele
(Michigan)

Ok I am now into day 4 of my major flare up! I am weak and dehydrated. Any suggestions?

Comments for Major flare up...

Click here to add your own comments

Major Flare-up NEW
by: Annette Young

Hello there,

I'm sorry to read that you are having such a bad time of it at the moment. Flare-ups can be really nasty and very difficult to manage. In the first instance, I would go back to basics with your diet and eat very little, although you probably don't feel much like eating at the moment anyway.

Drink plenty of water which will keep your body hydrated and this is vital, especially if you have acute diarrhea.Eat when you feel the need, but only eat those foods that are easy to digest.

It is important that you still get all of your vitamins and minerals to help your body be able to fight back, but if the intestines are really painful and sore then even digesting food will be a problem.

Puree your food -or choose nutritious soups where there is little to digest. This will form a good starting point. You will probably also feel exhausted if you are enduring a lot of pain so sleep as little or as much as is needed. Some people find having a hot water bottle placed on those painful areas to be really soothing.

All you can do really to take an instinctive approach to the problem and to go and see the doctor if the symptoms do not let up. Crohn's flareups can be aggressive and nasty, but medical advice should always be taken if it continues.

You might want to take a look at the type of food you have been eating prior to the flare-up as there may have been something that has triggered off this response.

I hope it settles down soon.

Best of luck,
Annette
Advice
by: Vanessa

Drink Gatorade and Ensure of Boost. Eat bread and pasta, forget about whole wheat. Relax and sleep.
Do not forget to contact your doctor though :)
Good luck
I so get it
by: Anonymous

I agree with the previoius person with the exception of dairy. Yes avoid if your lactose intolerant. Yogart is a really good source of protein and good bacteria. Try to get the kind with probiotics. never pick blueberry or anything with seeds. Best stick with vanilla, peach ornthey even make chocolate. Chocolate goooood! cook everything to death without straing out any vitamines. Eat jello, broth, potatoes, cream of wheat... You get the idea? If you need to (Ihate the idea too) take your behind to the hospital even if it's just to get rehydrated and get some vitamins innyour body. Keep strong and ASK FOR HELP!
fewer suggestions
by: Anonymous

In order to alleviate your inflamation , tell your doctor to put you on prednisone 40 mg a day till the flare up goes away, then he can reduce the dose gradually little by little. My friend, the key to controlling your crohn's is your food intake and your stress level. You must avoid all sodas and any fast food source. One bite or two or one sip or two won't hurt, but making it a habit as your daily meals will hurt you big time. use fresh meat and vegetables but not a lot. Eat a lot of fish and chew your food very well before swallowing. DO not rush while eating and drink water very slowly. Fast eating or drinking cause mal digestion and produce excess gas in your intestines which triggers the flare ups. avoid all gas producing vegetables as well. when you have a buildup of acidity and gas in your sytem, you will get flare ups. Avoid dairy products, fried stuff and even too cold items such as icecream or any cold beverages. There are lots of things that you can do to stablize your crohn's but listen to your body and record everything that hurt you once. Also avoid vinegar, most of creamy salad dressings, and lemon juice or any similar drinks. Avoid too much spices and do not over eat or drink too much. Moreover and most importantly, avoid stress if you can. Exercise gently and have a wonderful time.

Click here to add your own comments

Join in and write your own page! It's easy to do. How? Simply click here to return to Ask A Question About Crohn's Disease.

Any tips on travelling when you have a flare up?

by Ms Eire
(Ireland)

I have crohn's for over 5 years, this week has been really bad, I'm going on a long business trip and am distraught at the thought of having urgent need for the bathroom etc.. any tips or advice would be greatly appreciated.

Comments for Any tips on travelling when you have a flare up?

Click here to add your own comments

Travelling Tips NEW
by: Annette Young

Hello there,

Thank you for your question. I wanted to answer it because I am quite sure that the topic affects many, many people. These days, everyone travels much more widely and to any Crohn's sufferer who has to go away for business or even for a holiday, travelling can turn into a bit of a nightmare.

The more anxious you become about your travels, the more likely you are to experience a chronic flareup, so the key to being able to travel successfully lies in the preparation.

At the end of the day, no one can guarantee how they are going to feel at that time. But the better prepared you are, the less likely you will need your backup plans.

Take pads wet wipes, changes of clothes just in case of embarrassing 'motions', ensure that you take your medicine, and any aid is for relaxing. The more relaxed you can be, the less likely you are to have trouble. Food can be an issue when you are travelling so take some tried and tested favourites with you so that you know it wont upset your digestion. Avoid drinking alcohol and make sure you drink plenty of water so that you can stay hydrated.

Providing you have organised your travel plans, there should be less concern. If you are away on business make sure you have all of your material with you, so you can research and learn and be prepared. Try to take as much stress out of the equation as possible. If you really are worried and are going on a long flight for example, you can make the stewardesses/stewards aware, if this will give you peace of mind.

In the US. you can apply for a 'Can't Wait' card which gives you priority access to the bathrooms when out and about. You may never need to use it.

I have attached a link and hope it helps.

http://www.crohnsandme.com/living-with-crohns-disease/crohns-tips.aspx


Best wishes,

Annette
talk to airline
by: Gill

Sorry, I know this is a bit late as you've probably already travelledby now but it might help for the future.

When I travel I always speak to the holiday company/airline 6-8 weeks before travel to ask for special needs assistance. I specifically ask for a seat next to the toilet. I also have mobility problems so ask for assistance to & from the departure gate. Most of the seats allocated for disabled passengers are at the front of the aircraft which are next to the toilets. Whehter the airlines mainly keep these for people with mobility problems, I'm not sure (i.e. this might be the main reason I get allocated these setas). It's certainly worth stressing the Crohn's, though, and your need to be near a toilet. Touch wood, the airlines operating out of the UK have been very good on this over the years.

Also, make sure you have medication innyour hand luggage - I tend to take a dose of lomotil just to be on the safe side. I also take anti emitics with me. Finally, I carry a spare pair of underwear & tissues/wipes just in case.

Hope this helps & that you have/had a good trip.
talk to airline
by: Gill

Sorry, I know this is a bit late as you've probably already travelledby now but it might help for the future.

When I travel I always speak to the holiday company/airline 6-8 weeks before travel to ask for special needs assistance. I specifically ask for a seat next to the toilet. I also have mobility problems so ask for assistance to & from the departure gate. Most of the seats allocated for disabled passengers are at the front of the aircraft which are next to the toilets. Whehter the airlines mainly keep these for people with mobility problems, I'm not sure (i.e. this might be the main reason I get allocated these setas). It's certainly worth stressing the Crohn's, though, and your need to be near a toilet. Touch wood, the airlines operating out of the UK have been very good on this over the years.

Also, make sure you have medication innyour hand luggage - I tend to take a dose of lomotil just to be on the safe side. I also take anti emitics with me. Finally, I carry a spare pair of underwear & tissues/wipes just in case.

Hope this helps & that you have/had a good trip.
Long Trip???
by: Dave

I was diagnosed 12 years ago and am 55 years old. Have been married 33 years and have a Daughter that was married 5 years ago and lives in San Diego. She married a guy stationed there in the Navy. I live in Greenfield, Indiana and have never been out to see her and hear awful remarks from my family and wife frequently. I don't want to sound like a "Kranky" old man Ms Eire, but when I first found out I have Crohn's Disease and later studied and realized what it is, I found myself thinking about ending my life. Then I realized how hard this would be on my family and the guilt they would probably feel. I turned this problem over to the Lord for some answers. You can't worry what others say or think of you. Some of my friends think I am a little cold but I can't listen to people complain about dumb things, you know that causes flair-ups. I drive an 18 wheeler and drive 456 miles each day on the same route. I know where all the places I can stop if I need to.. My wife wants us to get on an Airplane and fly to various places around the world, Ireland is one place she would love to visit. I have told here over and over I don't feel comfortable with the thought of being confined in a small space in case of another flair-up.. Ms Eire, the only advise I can give you is just don't go past your confort zone. You know what you can and can't do. You will meet people that think you are strange because you just feel comfortable being by yourself and love being home when you not at work. I read you mind, Right?? I am about six weeks away from retiring and it breaks my heart that me marriage is probably not going to last much longer. We just have got to pray for understanding and also realize that it is hard for some people to know what is involved for us to get through the day! Please write a response to my letter and I promise my next one won't sound so much like doom and gloom.. Basically, you've got to know your boundaries and stay within there and don't worry about others remarks.. I am a very happy and Spitual Person and looking forward to talking and helping others after retirement.. Ms Eire, talk to God.. Go out and help someone in need and watch the wonderful blessing you will begin to feel in your heart.. Don't watch the news on T.V. Put yourself in a position that you can realize there are many wonderful people on Earth.. Remember, this is the short life, the next one is the eternal life! If the trip you are taking is too long, don't take it.. Do what feels write to you! Love Dave M
TRAVELLING
by: BARBIE

I ALWAYS CARRY IMODIUM PLUS THEY ARE A LIFE SAVER

Click here to add your own comments

Join in and write your own page! It's easy to do. How? Simply click here to return to Ask A Question About Crohn's Disease.

Enjoy this page? Please pay it forward. Here's how...

Would you prefer to share this page with others by linking to it?

  1. Click on the HTML link code below.
  2. Copy and paste it, adding a note of your own, into your blog, a Web page, forums, a blog comment, your Facebook account, or anywhere that someone would find this page valuable.