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Flu Shots and Colitis

FLU TIME AGAIN, so let’s get it on with talking about the FLU SHOT.

I did not participate in this survey, but had I participated I would fall in with the 36% of UC’ers who do not get the flu shot.  I used to ask my GI doctor(s) when my symptoms were out of control several years ago about should I or shouldn’t I get the flu shot, but I honestly can’t remember what they told me.

Pretty interesting that only 7% of you who participated feel that the FLU shot has an effect on your UC symptoms.  And 40% stated “No” to that very same question.

Also, it’s pretty interesting to see that although 61% of your GI doctors/treating physicians recommend that you get the flu shot, only 43% of of you actually follow up and follow those recommendations.

One of the fellow UC’ers who participated in the survey sent over a very interesting link, I’m guessing most of you don’t read the Lancet ( a medical journal scientific type of deal), but some of you very well may be fascinated by some of the info in there.  Either way, this UC’er (also a doctor) passed on this link, the text is titled: “Vaccination and Autoimmune Disease, What is the Evidence?” – http://image.thelancet.com/extras/02art9340web.pdf

Pictures pictures pictures.

Here is a quick gallery of all of the participants who submitted photos.  about 45 people out of 560..Not too bad…but what do the rest of you look like?

(If you’d like to participate in future survey’s you MUST join the FREE ANG (active newsletter group) to get my emails with the links to participate.)

Flu Shot Survey – With Relation to Ulcerative Colitis

Question 1: (560 Responses)

BEFORE my diagnosis of UC I…

Question 2: (560 Responses)

AFTER my diagnosis of UC I…

Question 3: (560 Responses)

Do you think the flu shot has an effect on your UC symptoms?

Question 4: (560 Responses)

Does your doctor or treating physician recommend you get the flu shot?

The final question to the survey like most past surveys, was a place for participants to share any thoughts and/or comments on the topic.  And, 118 of you included some comments.  Here they are:

Thank you to all 560 participants who added ideas, comments, and insight into the annual question that all UC’ers face with regards to getting the flu shot. If you’re wondering, I myself am a MAJOR whimp when it comes to shots.  I haven’t had any shots for over a year, and I’m hoping to keep it that way.  And I know there’s some new slick ways of getting the flu shot in this new age of medicine, but pretty sure I’m going to hold off on getting the flu shot anytime soon.  But that said, I’m elated to know that so many people who are using the flu shot are having success with fighting the flu and not having suspected/related UC issues. And to Bev( who was the inspiration for this survey), what ya thinking after reading all this?  You still staying clear of flu shots moving forward? Best to you all, no matter what your thoughts on flu shots.  And for anyone who is down in the dumpster right now with flared up, out of control UC symptoms that seem like they will never end.  Guess what?  Two things you need to ALWAYS remember.

  1. You’re not alone
  2. Symptoms don’t last forever

Let’s all have a great rest of 2013. And do something nice:

– Adam Scheuer

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