Introduction:
I’m 42 and was diagnosed with UC when I was 19 (also diagnosed with gastritis about seven years ago). I started my own business last year, which offers me flexibility, especially when I’m not feeling my best.
Some more about me:
I’m originally from Hampton Roads, VA. I am a rabid Beatles and Bob Dylan fan and have been since high school (second generation fan). I am a writer by trade (education and practice) and own my own marketing communications company.
I’m of Eastern European Jewish heritage, which apparently, is a group of people who are apparently at higher risk than general population to have UC/IBD.
Current Colitis Symptoms:
Thank G-d, I am currently (knock wood) in remission.
A Girl With Colitis
As mentioned above, I’m 42 and was diagnosed with Ulcerative Colitis when I was 19 (also diagnosed with gastritis about seven years ago). My husband was recently diagnosed with UC as well (kind of odd that husband and wife have same condition, but there we are). I also have anxiety/depression issues, which my gastroenterologist said, sort of goes hand-in-hand with UC (at least for me).
Since my hubby was recently diagnosed, I feel like I’m helping him by virtue of being a veteran of the disease. I started my own business last year, which offers me flexibility, especially when I’m not feeling my best. I’ve been taking sulfasalazine and a folic acid supplement since I was diagnosed almost 23 years ago.
How do I feel about, er, my doctor checking my butt all the time? If it’ll save my life, I can deal with it (so long as I’m given anesthesia. Oh yeah..I woke up a couple of times in the past during the colonoscopy because I wasn’t given “enough juice.” That was a very unpleasant experience as you can imagine. Gee, doc…don’t be so chintzy with the stuff, eh?
I get colonoscopies every other year since I’ve had colitis for over 10 years. I try to manage my stress, which isn’t easy when a) I’m a Type-A personality and b) I’m running a business. All I can say is thank goodness for medication and cognitive behavioral therapy!? What goes on in your head, stress, etc. is just as important as what’s going on in your body. One usually affects the other.
Hubby takes Lialda and am wondering if an older, cheaper drug (i.e., sulfasalazine) with less side effects is still available, why he isn’t taking that or at least being offered the option. I’m concerned about recent blood work he had done and what the future holds in terms of remission for him.
Colitis Medications
Sulfasalazine – gold standard for me
Dexilant and Protonix for gastritis – both work pretty well.
written by Girl With Colitis
submitted in the colitis venting area
I’m 42 and was diagnosed with UC when I was 19 (also diagnosed with gastritis about seven years ago).
