Ulcerative Colitis Diagnosis

What Is an Ulcerative Colitis Diagnosis? Signs and Symptoms

An Ulcerative Colitis diagnosis is confirmed when inflammation and ulcers (sores) are found in the colon or rectum. It is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that causes symptoms ranging from mild to severe.

Signs and Symptoms of Ulcerative Colitis

• Frequent Diarrhea: Often mixed with blood or mucus.
• Abdominal Pain and Cramping: Particularly in the lower abdomen.
• Urgent Bowel Movements: A sudden need to use the bathroom, sometimes with little warning.
• Fatigue: Persistent tiredness due to inflammation or nutrient malabsorption.
• Unintended Weight Loss: Caused by decreased appetite and nutrient loss.
• Fever: Especially during a severe flare-up.
• Anemia: Resulting from chronic blood loss.

A gastroenterologist typically uses tests like colonoscopy, stool studies, and blood work to confirm the diagnosis. Early diagnosis is crucial to managing symptoms effectively and preventing complications.

My Ulcerative Colitis Diagnosis

In April 2014, I joined the exclusive club of Ulcerative Colitis sufferers, courtesy of a colonoscopy and a gastroenterologist with the bedside manner of a brick wall. My husband thought the doctor’s silence post-procedure meant he was saving the big reveal for when I woke up. Spoiler: he wasn’t.

The UC Diagnosis Confusion

The doctor handed me a prescription for Prednisone, a steroid I’d never heard of, and sent me on my way. A few days later, when I called to confirm the results, his nurse confidently told me I didn’t have Ulcerative Colitis. Naturally, I was confused.

Fast forward to my follow-up appointment, where the doctor nonchalantly confirmed, “Yep, you have Ulcerative Colitis. Take these pills forever. Next!”

Turns out he may be wrong after all, shocker! I’ll save that story for next time.

The Prescriptions for Ulcerative Colitis

The nurse went over the treatment plan with me and it turns out she gave me the wrong dosage instructions. I was supposed to take three pills, three times a day. Instead, I was popping one pill, three times a day. She also botched my Prednisone tapering instructions, which is like handing someone a parachute with holes in it.

For someone who avoided Tylenol for a headache, this daily pill plan was a nightmare. But I begrudgingly took the meds because, as I learned through late-night Google sessions, untreated Ulcerative Colitis could lead to something terrifying called Toxic Megacolon. Spoiler #2: It did.

The Surgery That Saved My Life

A couple of years later, when my colon decided it was done with life, I was rushed into surgery for a total colectomy. The surgeons asked if I wanted an epidural or IV for pain management. I chose IV, but post-op, I woke up with an epidural because apparently, “intense pain” overrides consent. To top it off, the epidural wasn’t even working.

Recovery was brutal. Every day felt like climbing Everest without oxygen. But the hardest part wasn’t the physical pain—it was adjusting to life with a stoma and knowing this was just surgery #1.

Challenges with Doctors

To make matters worse, my original gastroenterologist and his entire practice refused to treat me after I dared to seek a second opinion. After much begging, I found a new doctor who will treat me but after getting a permanent ileostomy, I don’t really need him anymore.

Finding Alternative Solutions

I quickly realized that the traditional medical route wasn’t going to be my only answer. I started researching alternative treatments and experimenting with diet changes. While my doctor dismissed diet as irrelevant, I couldn’t ignore the stories of others who found relief through food and lifestyle adjustments.

Diet and Lifestyle Tips for Managing Ulcerative Colitis

While there is no one-size-fits-all diet for Ulcerative Colitis, many patients find that certain foods and habits help manage their symptoms. I have heard amazing stories from those who have found success with the Specific Carbohydrate Diet to control Ulcerative Colitis, Crohn’s and a variety of other autoimmune diseases.

Diet Tips

• Low-Fiber Foods: Helpful during flares to reduce irritation. Examples include white bread, bananas, and plain chicken.
• Hydration: Drinking plenty of water can prevent dehydration, especially if diarrhea is frequent.
• Limit Trigger Foods: Spicy foods, caffeine, alcohol, and high-fat items may worsen symptoms.
• Probiotics: Found in yogurt and fermented foods, they may promote gut health.

Lifestyle Tips

• Stress Management: Stress can trigger flares, so consider mindfulness, yoga, or therapy.
• Exercise: Gentle activities like walking or swimming can improve overall well-being.
• Adequate Sleep: Rest helps reduce inflammation and supports the immune system.

Consulting a dietitian experienced with IBD can help create a personalized plan.

Why I Started This Blog

“Ostomy On the Go” is my way of turning this rollercoaster into something positive. Whether you’re navigating an Ulcerative Colitis diagnosis, recovering from surgery, or just need a laugh, I’m here to share my journey—the good, the bad, and the hilarious.

If you’re dealing with Ulcerative Colitis or an ostomy, know this: you’re not alone, and it’s okay to laugh at the absurdity of it all.

Humor may not cure us, but it makes dealing with shit everyday much more bearable.

Life After an Ulcerative Colitis Surgery: What to Expect

For some patients, surgery becomes necessary when medication fails to control symptoms. The most common procedure is a proctocolectomy, where the colon and rectum are removed, often requiring the creation of an ileostomy or a J-pouch.

Post-Surgery Recovery

• Initial Healing: It can take several weeks to recover physically. Managing pain and adjusting to dietary changes are common hurdles.
• Living with a Stoma or J-Pouch: Adapting to these changes may take time but can significantly improve quality of life.
• Potential Side Effects: Issues like dehydration, vitamin deficiencies, or small bowel obstructions may arise. Regular follow-ups with your doctor are essential.

Long-Term Outlook

Many patients report an improved quality of life post-surgery, with fewer hospitalizations and medication needs. Support groups and resources can help patients navigate this transition.

How to Advocate for Yourself in Healthcare

Navigating a chronic illness like Ulcerative Colitis requires strong self-advocacy to ensure you receive the best possible care.

Tips for Self-Advocacy

1. Educate Yourself: Learn about your condition, treatments, and possible complications. Knowledge is power when discussing options with your doctor.
2. Ask Questions: Never hesitate to ask for clarity or more details about your treatment plan.
3. Seek Second Opinions: If you’re not confident in your current care, explore alternative specialists, even if they threaten to drop you as a patient.
4. Document Everything: Keep a symptom diary, medication list, and notes from appointments. These records can help guide discussions with your healthcare team. If allowed in your state, as it is in Iowa, record your sessions with your doctor. If not legal in your state, simply ask if you can record. This can help you digest important information later.
5. Build a Support Network: Joining a support group or connecting with others with Ulcerative Colitis can provide emotional and practical advice.

Remember, your health is a priority, and you deserve to feel heard and understood in your medical journey. Do not settle for a doctor who doesn’t have your best interest in mind. If possible, loop in a trusted family member or friend to help you weigh your options and treatment plan.

Helpful Articles for Ostomates

• Stoma Crusting Technique – How to Do It Right to Prevent Leaks
• Living With an Ostomy: Guide to Thriving Post-Surgery
• Intestinal Blockage: Guide to Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments

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