My Background with Ulcerative Colitis:
I was diagnosed with Ulcerative Colitis in the mid-1970’s—my youngest child was in the 3rd grade (she is now 43).
Until last month, I had been truly symptom-free for over 20 years. Can anyone beat that record?
My Story:
In the old days, (and there was no being put to sleep for the examinations/colonoscopies then) my gastroenterologist hospitalized me for “rest” and diet during flare-ups, along with some rectal cortisone treatments. I was always told I needed to be protected from mental distress–good luck with that!
I was begun on Prednisone as soon as it was invented–a miracle! ( I had a “moonface” for 15 years.) I stayed on that until Asacol came on the market, big improvement, which I continue. Remission has lasted until just a few weeks ago. No symptoms were apparent and I reee–ly didn’t want to have the regular 3-yr. colonoscopy. But I’m glad my doctor insisted, because problems were discovered, with a treatment to follow. NOW I’m remembering a few recent episodes which in hindsight (oh, yes) I recognize as being the beginning of a flare-up–which is now in full bloom and being treated with mesalamine and hydrocortisone, rectally. When I go back to the doc in a couple of weeks, there may be some added prescriptions???
And that is why I went on line to discover your website and the opportunity to hear new stories and share mine. Which I think is a hopeful one–I will celebrate my 80th birthday in May.