Extreme Intestinal Disorders If you have a cold, you could go to work, or if you sprain your ankle, you can still get around with some supports, that are a good thing. However, if your stomach is upset, you have a problem, and it most likely means you will need to be home and near your restroom. There are not many conditions that can control a person’s life like a gastrointestinal problem. It can be debilitating. Crohn’s With Crohn’s, the patient often has what is considered a flare up. A flare up involves swelling of the colon lining, diarrhea, and occasionally rectal bleeding. Crohn’s is difficult to control, and occasionally a patient may need to undergo surgery to remove a portion of the affected intestines. Some people go weeks or months with no difficulty, and then suddenly they are reminded this medical condition can put a stop to their life. A gastrointestinal doctor can work with the patient to help control symptoms, which may include IV treatments, or prescription medications. Related: Retiring From a Nursing Career IBS Irritable bowel syndrome has been referred to by a number of names over the years. Regardless of what it has been called, the results are the same, a patient that misses far too much in life because their stomach condition dictates they remain near a restroom. IBS is different from other gastrointestinal diseases, as the symptoms can vary, sometimes day to day. IBS can cause acute watery stools that are basically uncontrollable. Then there are times that constipation is in control, you feel as though you need to remain very close to a restroom, just in case. IBS can be very painful; the constipation pains can be very intense and make life unpredictable for many. With IBS, the symptoms can differ, one day severe constipation, and the following day severe loose stools. There are some medications that can help, however there is no cure for this condition. Living with Intestinal Problems For a patient that has lived with a severe gastrointestinal problem, they most likely tell you they do not control their lives, their stomach does. Imagine making plans for an evening, and right before leaving, it hits, your stomach is in pain, cramping perhaps. In most cases, there is little you
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