ulcerative colitis

2BIGFRED

2BIGFRED

Joined
May 10, 2007
Messages
882
They told me today I have ulcerative colitis.They gave me Colazal and prednisone to take.There is no way in hell im taking the prednisone for 2 months like he wants either.I was out of it when he told my wife what he was giving me or I would have asked for something else.If anybody has any info to help me with this and any info on Colazal please let me know.
 
Drug Therapy

The goal of drug therapy is to induce and maintain remission, and to improve the quality of life for people with ulcerative colitis. Several types of drugs are available.

* Aminosalicylates, drugs that contain 5-aminosalicyclic acid (5-ASA), help control inflammation. Sulfasalazine is a combination of sulfapyridine and 5-ASA. The sulfapyridine component carries the anti-inflammatory 5-ASA to the intestine. However, sulfapyridine may lead to side effects such as nausea, vomiting, heartburn, diarrhea, and headache. Other 5-ASA agents, such as olsalazine, mesalamine, and balsalazide, have a different carrier, fewer side effects, and may be used by people who cannot take sulfasalazine. 5-ASAs are given orally, through an enema, or in a suppository, depending on the location of the inflammation in the colon. Most people with mild or moderate ulcerative colitis are treated with this group of drugs first. This class of drugs is also used in cases of relapse.


* Corticosteroids such as prednisone, methylprednisone, and hydrocortisone also reduce inflammation. They may be used by people who have moderate to severe ulcerative colitis or who do not respond to 5-ASA drugs. Corticosteroids, also known as steroids, can be given orally, intravenously, through an enema, or in a suppository, depending on the location of the inflammation. These drugs can cause side effects such as weight gain, acne, facial hair, hypertension, diabetes, mood swings, bone mass loss, and an increased risk of infection. For this reason, they are not recommended for long-term use, although they are considered very effective when prescribed for short-term use.


* Immunomodulators such as azathioprine and 6-mercapto-purine (6-MP) reduce inflammation by affecting the immune system. These drugs are used for patients who have not responded to 5-ASAs or corticosteroids or who are dependent on corticosteroids. Immunomodulators are administered orally, however, they are slow-acting and it may take up to 6 months before the full benefit. Patients taking these drugs are monitored for complications including pancreatitis, hepatitis, a reduced white blood cell count, and an increased risk of infection. Cyclosporine A may be used with 6-MP or azathioprine to treat active, severe ulcerative colitis in people who do not respond to intravenous corticosteroids.

Surgery

About 25 to 40 percent of ulcerative colitis patients must eventually have their colons removed because of massive bleeding, severe illness, rupture of the colon, or risk of cancer. Sometimes the doctor will recommend removing the colon if medical treatment fails or if the side effects of corticosteroids or other drugs threaten the patient?s health.

Surgery to remove the colon and rectum, known as proctocolectomy, is followed by one of the following:

* Ileostomy, in which the surgeon creates a small opening in the abdomen, called a stoma, and attaches the end of the small intestine, called the ileum, to it. Waste will travel through the small intestine and exit the body through the stoma. The stoma is about the size of a quarter and is usually located in the lower right part of the abdomen near the beltline. A pouch is worn over the opening to collect waste, and the patient empties the pouch as needed.


* Ileoanal anastomosis, or pull-through operation, which allows the patient to have normal bowel movements because it preserves part of the anus. In this operation, the surgeon removes the colon and the inside of the rectum, leaving the outer muscles of the rectum. The surgeon then attaches the ileum to the inside of the rectum and the anus, creating a pouch. Waste is stored in the pouch and passes through the anus in the usual manner. Bowel movements may be more frequent and watery than before the procedure. Inflammation of the pouch (pouchitis) is a possible complication.

Not every operation is appropriate for every person. Which surgery to have depends on the severity of the disease and the patient?s needs, expectations, and lifestyle. People faced with this decision should get as much information as possible by talking to their doctors, to nurses who work with colon surgery patients (enterostomal therapists), and to other colon surgery patients. Patient advocacy organizations can direct people to support groups and other information resources.
 
* Aminosalicylates, drugs that contain 5-aminosalicyclic acid (5-ASA), help control inflammation. Sulfasalazine is a combination of sulfapyridine and 5-ASA. The sulfapyridine component carries the anti-inflammatory 5-ASA to the intestine. However, sulfapyridine may lead to side effects such as nausea, vomiting, heartburn, diarrhea, and headache. Other 5-ASA agents, such as olsalazine, mesalamine, and balsalazide, have a different carrier, fewer side effects, and may be used by people who cannot take sulfasalazine. 5-ASAs are given orally, through an enema, or in a suppository, depending on the location of the inflammation in the colon. Most people with mild or moderate ulcerative colitis are treated with this group of drugs first. This class of drugs is also used in cases of relapse.


The above is what the colazal is it is (balsalazide disodium).

I think I will try it and if it doesnt get any better call my Dr on Monday and tell him I want something other then prednisone.
 
We have 2 friends that have this. I can tell you this, the food you eat WILL irritate it.
 
None.

Once they got the bleeding to stop they found out 90% of the time it flared up was because the type of food they ate.
 
Diet
There's no firm evidence that what you eat causes inflammatory bowel disease. But certain foods and beverages can aggravate your symptoms, especially during a flare-up in your condition. It's a good idea to try eliminating from your diet anything that seems to make your signs and symptoms worse. Here are some suggestions that may help:

*

Limit dairy products. Like many people with inflammatory bowel disease, you may find that problems, such as diarrhea, abdominal pain and gas, improve when you limit or eliminate dairy products. You may be lactose intolerant — that is, your body can't digest the milk sugar (lactose) in dairy foods. If so, try substituting yogurt or low-lactose cheeses, such as Swiss and cheddar, for milk. Or use an enzyme product, such as Lactaid, to help break down lactose.

In some cases, you may need to eliminate dairy foods completely. If you need help, a registered dietitian can help you design a healthy diet that's low in lactose. Keep in mind that with limiting your dairy intake, you'll need to find other sources of calcium, such as supplements.
*

Experiment with fiber. For most people, high-fiber foods, such as fresh fruits and vegetables and whole grains, are the foundation of a healthy diet. But if you have inflammatory bowel disease, fiber may make diarrhea, pain and gas worse. If raw fruits and vegetables bother you, try steaming, baking or stewing them.

You may also find that you can tolerate some fruits and vegetables, but not others. In general, you may have more problems with foods in the cabbage family, such as broccoli and cauliflower, and with very crunchy foods such as raw apples and carrots.
* Avoid problem foods. Eliminate any other foods that seem to make your symptoms worse. These may include "gassy" foods such as beans, cabbage and broccoli, raw fruit juices and fruits — especially citrus fruits — spicy food, popcorn, alcohol, caffeine, and foods and drinks that contain caffeine, such as chocolate and soda.
* Eat small meals. You may find you feel better eating five or six small meals rather than two or three larger ones.
* Drink plenty of liquids. Try to drink plenty of fluids daily. Water is best. Alcohol and beverages that contain caffeine stimulate your intestines and can make diarrhea worse, while carbonated drinks frequently produce gas.
* Ask about multivitamins. Because ulcerative colitis can interfere with your ability to absorb nutrients and because your diet may be limited, vitamin and mineral supplements can play a key role in supplying missing nutrients. They don't provide essential protein and calories, however, and shouldn't be a substitute for meals.
* Talk to a dietitian. If you begin to lose weight or your diet has become very limited, talk to a registered dietitian.
 
Ms.Wetback said:
Diet
There's no firm evidence that what you eat causes inflammatory bowel disease. But certain foods and beverages can aggravate your symptoms, especially during a flare-up in your condition. It's a good idea to try eliminating from your diet anything that seems to make your signs and symptoms worse. Here are some suggestions that may help:

*

Limit dairy products. Like many people with inflammatory bowel disease, you may find that problems, such as diarrhea, abdominal pain and gas, improve when you limit or eliminate dairy products. You may be lactose intolerant ? that is, your body can't digest the milk sugar (lactose) in dairy foods. If so, try substituting yogurt or low-lactose cheeses, such as Swiss and cheddar, for milk. Or use an enzyme product, such as Lactaid, to help break down lactose.

In some cases, you may need to eliminate dairy foods completely. If you need help, a registered dietitian can help you design a healthy diet that's low in lactose. Keep in mind that with limiting your dairy intake, you'll need to find other sources of calcium, such as supplements.
*

Experiment with fiber. For most people, high-fiber foods, such as fresh fruits and vegetables and whole grains, are the foundation of a healthy diet. But if you have inflammatory bowel disease, fiber may make diarrhea, pain and gas worse. If raw fruits and vegetables bother you, try steaming, baking or stewing them.

You may also find that you can tolerate some fruits and vegetables, but not others. In general, you may have more problems with foods in the cabbage family, such as broccoli and cauliflower, and with very crunchy foods such as raw apples and carrots.
* Avoid problem foods. Eliminate any other foods that seem to make your symptoms worse. These may include "gassy" foods such as beans, cabbage and broccoli, raw fruit juices and fruits ? especially citrus fruits ? spicy food, popcorn, alcohol, caffeine, and foods and drinks that contain caffeine, such as chocolate and soda.
* Eat small meals. You may find you feel better eating five or six small meals rather than two or three larger ones.
* Drink plenty of liquids. Try to drink plenty of fluids daily. Water is best. Alcohol and beverages that contain caffeine stimulate your intestines and can make diarrhea worse, while carbonated drinks frequently produce gas.
* Ask about multivitamins. Because ulcerative colitis can interfere with your ability to absorb nutrients and because your diet may be limited, vitamin and mineral supplements can play a key role in supplying missing nutrients. They don't provide essential protein and calories, however, and shouldn't be a substitute for meals.
* Talk to a dietitian. If you begin to lose weight or your diet has become very limited, talk to a registered dietitian.
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Thanks that helps a lot!!!
 
yes, prednisone is a bitch... I just got off a month's worth.
it stiff-armed my immunity like it was Earl Cambell... now I got a nagging cough
 
FRED, I may be able to help you out....I've had UC for 11 years so I know about it.....I take MESALAMINE (Asacol) everyday, it works well for me.....prednisone will fuck you up, bro....I plan to never take it again, it's been years since I had to take it....I've found that there are certain foods that can irritate the condition....all high fiber foods are a NO-NO (whole grains, raw fruits and veggies and the like).....the way to go is low fiber/low residue foods like white rice, lean meats, and cooked veggies.....remember to keep the fiber intake to a minimum....this is contrary to most "healthy" diets but is beneficial for UC......feel free to ask any questions cause believe me bro, I have tried everything to find what works.
 
Low Residue Diet

Low Residue Diet

Grain Products:

enriched refined white bread, buns, bagels, english muffins
plain melba toast
white rice, refined pasta and noodles
avoid whole grains
Fruits:

fruit juices except prune juice
applesauce, apricots, banana (1/2), cantaloupe, canned fruit cocktail, grapes, honeydew melon, peaches, watermelon
avoid raw and dried fruits, raisins and berries.
Vegetables:

vegetable juices
potatoes (no skin)
well-cooked and tender vegetables including alfalfa sprouts, beets, green/yellow beans, carrots, celery, cucumber, eggplant, lettuce, mushrooms, green/red peppers, squash, zucchini
avoid vegetables from the cruciferous family such as broccoli, cauliflower, brussels sprouts, cabbage, kale, Swiss chard etc
Meat and Protein Choice:

well-cooked, tender meat, fish and eggs
avoid beans and lentils
Nuts and Seeds:

Avoid all nuts and seeds, as well as foods that may contain seeds (such as yogurt)
 
Actually, the best diet (and prolly the hardest to follow) for UC is a grain-free, sugar-free diet...I follwed this diet a few years ago with great results, but is was so restictive....also, I leaned out nicely, went from a little over 200 to 170 in a few months.
 
meateater said:
Actually, the best diet (and prolly the hardest to follow) for UC is a grain-free, sugar-free diet...I follwed this diet a few years ago with great results, but is was so restictive....also, I leaned out nicely, went from a little over 200 to 170 in a few months.
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So basically I need to eat white bread instead of whole wheat and for meat I need to eat fish,chicken and stay away from things like steak.Like white rice would be better for me then brown is that what your saying?


You have a pm too :)
 
I had UC for a little over a year. It was horrible I had constant flare ups and was always on prednisone, Asacol, and 6MP. They wanted me to try an IV infusion med called Remicade, which is working well for my sister who has Crohn's, but during a chest x-ray they found Hogdkins Lymphoma. I had to have my small intestine removed, they treated the cancer, then removed my colon and reattached everything. It was a long process with some complications but now I'm back to 100% and not on any meds. For me the diet was basically trial and error.
 
2BIGFRED said:
So basically I need to eat white bread instead of whole wheat and for meat I need to eat fish,chicken and stay away from things like steak.Like white rice would be better for me then brown is that what your saying?


You have a pm too :)
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correct
 
i was diagnosed with ibs a cppl years ago, did alot of research and ms wetback and meateater are right, its all diet...i used to have pain so bad id almost pass out changed what i ate and its made 90 percent the difference

what works well for me is high fiber/low fat diet..and eating alot of soluble fiber and minimal amounts of insoluble fibre

Dairy products, greasy foods, red meats are the main trigger for my stomach
 
My daughter has Crohns, diagnosed this Jan, been in and out of hospitals ever since. I can give you all the details you want about Prednisone, Remicade, 6mp, Methaltrexate, etc.

just PM me.
 
HERO said:
i was diagnosed with ibs a cppl years ago, did alot of research and ms wetback and meateater are right, its all diet...
Click to expand...

Respectfully disagree.

Although diet may help control flare ups, depending on the severity of the disease, it may have little or no impact.

IBS is different than IBD ie, Crohns and UC.

Important thing is to put the disease in remission and keep it there by any means necessary
 
prednisone is one of the best meds to use when you get a flare up, they also had me on remicade, that seemed to help alot. I have UC and Croans, they ended up taking all my large intestine and half my small, including all muscle and tissue associated with it. Its not worth it TAKE THE PREDNISONE small price to pay!!!!! Eat white rice, chicken and tons of shakes, that was all that didnt set me off.
 
Supes25 said:
prednisone is one of the best meds to use when you get a flare up, they also had me on remicade, that seemed to help alot. I have UC and Croans, they ended up taking all my large intestine and half my small, including all muscle and tissue associated with it. Its not worth it TAKE THE PREDNISONE small price to pay!!!!! Eat white rice, chicken and tons of shakes, that was all that didnt set me off.
Click to expand...

no wonder you lost so much weight bro, the majority of it was intestines. i'd hate to have to go through that...
 
hey fred, i hope you get better man, take all this advice, and use it to your best ability. Sounds like solid info.
 
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