Crohn's Chronicles--A Life Interrupted

May is Crohn's Awareness Month in Canada. In the US it is in November. Which is how I got to blogging about the disease that has interrupted my life. I received an e-mail from a reader who knew I had Crohn's. They wanted to know why I wasn't blogging about it. Truth to tell, I'd never thought about it. I mean c'mon, who wants to talk about Crohn's?

I got slammed when I got home last night. Seems my son and his father had cooked up a scheme to get me to eat baby food. They were sure that would cure me.

"Mom. You are the rock that holds this family together. We would fall apart without you."

Who said anything about dying?

I've been subsisting on applesauce and white flour tortillas for the last two weeks. My hopeful optimism was sorely dashed by a major flare last weekend that nearly landed me in the hospital. Thankfully, I have a doctor's appointment tomorrow. There's no use kidding myself any longer. The Humira is not working. Oh, my psychological processes want me to BELIEVE it's working, but the pain level tells me it's not.

However, when anyone asks how I'm feeling I tell them I feel great. No problems, everything is wonderful. For some reason, this makes me feel better. If I do have a problem, I blow it off and say it will pass. Now, inside I know the truth, but outwardly I'm on this positivity kick that I'm hoping will translate into better health. You know, the power of positive thinking. After all, it can't hurt. Besides, who wants to bring a bunch of negativity into the world. Not me. I am so done with bad stuff. I'm ready for the good. Even if it means surgery, I'm okay with it.

Vitamins

If your life has been interrupted by Crohn's, here's some great advice. TAKE YOUR VITAMINS. As you know, especially if you have inflammation in the large and small intestine, you aren't getting all the vitamins you need. Of course, even I don't follow my own advice and a few months ago when I ran out of B12, I just didn't pick up anymore.

Bad idea.

When I started to feel run down, pooped out, energy going by the wayside even if my thyroid meds were working, I remembered the B12. Within a few days---YES JUST A FEW DAYS--of taking the liquid drops, (you put it under your tongue instead of swallowing them or getting the injection) I felt enormously better.

Vitamin D--A must supplemental for Crohnies. Promotes bone and muscle health. Good for Crohn's arthritis and mental health.

Extra Bs--You need those B vitamins to keep depression at bay and your spirits up. They are also a great way to chase away the anxiety.

As always, check with your doc before taking anything. Even an herb. Remember--aspirin and NASIDs can make you bleed--go easy on the Tylenol. Elavil, a mild anti-depressant, works great for pain. You take it at night and it has a sedative effect. You will sleep better and feel better. I know there aren't a lot of options for pain control so managing Crohn's is the most effective way to banish pain.

As always, you are in my thoughts and prayers.

(((hugs)))

Louann

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