My Crohnstipated Life

Make no mistake, our disease is real. It’s a very serious disorder often associated with extremely painful and embarrassing symptoms. Although, it’s a complete nuisance, it is rarely fatal. However, it is a chronic (persistent and lasting) disease with many complications. Although you may experience long periods of remission, know that there is no known medical cure for Crohn’s disease. Flare ups and remission are just part of the disease. There is no rhyme or reason for the quick changes and we should not let that effect our mind set. If the regimen you are on is working for you, keep it up don’t change anything and just ride it out if possible. There is no reason to jump back on the prednisone and asacol drugs. Just get back to the basics with your diet. Eat clean, meaning raw. No flour or sugar products and if you aren’t on pro-biotic, fish oils, glutamine, inflammatory (intestinal soothers) or Aloe Vera juice-get on them. Your body will figure it out and begin to heal itself.

The good news is that there are practical techniques you can learn that may help you manage many of your symptoms.

1. Educate yourself about your disease. The internet is loaded with great information and so is your doctor. Join groups and local Crohns groups in your area.

2. Do not listen to your Gastro when they say “just stay away from Caffeine.” There is so much more that you need to stay clear of. While everyone is different, some foods that cause common problems are dairy, spicy foods, high fiber foods, and fat.

3. Be prepared. You need to live an active life. Don’t let this beast control your actives. To start choose familiar places. Once you feel comfortable you’ll begin to try less familiar places. Note bathroom placement before your arrival to an event, it will help eliminate your stress. Travel with extra tissues or undergarments.

4. Stress, stress, stress. You need to reduce the stress in your life. Not only does stress cause your cortizol levels to increase it also feeds to the Crohn’s disease. Stress is not the cause of stress, but it plays a huge role in it. Stress often exuberates flare-ups and other symptoms. While stress is most likely unavoidable, there are some techniques to help you reduce it:

1. Do something relaxing or fun for yourself everyday like reading a book, listening to your favorite song, working out, walking, crafts, sports, a massage or cooking.
2. Any type of meditation like yoga, deep breathing or meditation.
3. Any type of counseling or therapy may also help alleviate your stress levels. Talk to your MD about your situation, they are suitable to help you.

5. Create a support system. Many of us are not really comfortable discussing our disease or pain. However, telling your story, sharing your experiences with others helps the process for you but also for your support system. Something you may have tried or shared could make the difference in another’s life.

6. Connect and reach out. You will find it comforting to connect with others who share our disease undergoing similar experiences. Connecting with a group will provide you with a safe and constructive emotional outlet. And practical tips to cope with the impact of the monster are always helpful.

God Bless!