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Crohn's Disease
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Posted 4/9/2008 11:24 AM (GMT 0)
I work part time now because of pain and severe D and not knowing when it would hit but I have always managed to make it to the toilet in time. I have always been afraid of an accident. Well today it happened. I was at my desk and thought hmm I think I need to go to the toilet, got up, walked towards the door, got about 6-7 feet and woosh it was all over (me anyway) sad

Thank God no one noticed and I managed to sneak out to a nearby toilet without being spotted but I was soooo embarrassed. I am terrified about going in to work tomorrow in case it happens again. I always take a couple of Immodium before I leave for work but even they don't seem to work anymore.

How do others cope with this fear? What do you do to avoid this happening and how do you cope if it does?
Posted 4/9/2008 12:53 PM (GMT 0)
GeeBee,

Fortunately in my 15 years it's never happend to me. The closest issue I had was I had a fistual (actually three together that erupted at almost the same location) and while I was at work one day, they exploded. Fortunately I was wearing black pants, but the smell was just horrendous. Itw as very embarrasing but I made it through. I've never had an accident though, so my words may sound hollow..
But unfortunately there's nothing you can do but go back. I wouldn't take something to stop you up. You could end up with a bowel obstruction and be in even more trouble, possibly requiring surgery if it gets too bad.
Considering this was your first after almost 3 years, I wouldn't expect that it would happen all that often. But, I would keep around a change of clothes. Besides the obvious purpose they serve, you can use them to hide the accident on the way to the restroom. You can do the same with your coat.
I know that's not much help, but I'm more along the lines of if it happens to me, it happens to me. And if people aren't understanding enough (and most aren't) then screw 'em. I don't have the time, inclination, nor desire to associate with people who want to pick on me because of something that's out of my control.
And don't worry, it's just like everything else..Reacting to it and coping with it will come with experience.
If someone else has any ideas of keeping accidents from happening without ending up with a bowel obstruction, please let me know...?
Posted 4/9/2008 1:08 PM (GMT 0)
I actually had it happen and had to ask for help. I had to get a change of clothes and it was really bad. You go back with your head high. You did nothing wrong it is part of what we deal with and even though part of you died you should not be ashamed. People respect us because of what we deal with on a daily basis. They don't need the nasty details to know it is a horrible way to live, but you would be surprised how much people would respect you if they knew that you had the strength to get up out of bed today and face the day no matter what is thrown at you.

I have people at work who have told me that it is because they know I will be at work that they make themselves get up when that is the last thing they want to do. One woman said - I wake up I feel bad then I think about you and say to mayself - if she can do it so can I. What everyone forgets is we actually do have a great purpose. We give others the inner strength to deal with their lives. It is why I am not shy about being sick. I don't share some of my horror stories - like not making to the restroom in Target and having to leave my underwear and hose in the trash just to get home or the one about the accident at work. That they don't need to know, but you would be surprised how much you can help others just by getting through each day.

Good luck and I hope this helps.
Posted 4/9/2008 1:30 PM (GMT 0)
On the days when I am having "one" of those days, I put on a super overnight long maxi pad.  Then if I do have an accident, at least, I'm covered.  That just somehow makes it easier in my head.  But I have had the accidents, and I've had to leave my undies in the trash.  I always keep extra in my bag under my desk, just in case too.

Posted 4/9/2008 1:52 PM (GMT 0)
I do the same as Zanne, only I were one every time I leave the house.  There have been times that this is still not enough protection and I have left unide in trash cans too!  I hate it, and am very tired of it...but it is what it is. Until recently I didn't realize that this was affecting me mentally.  I never talked to anyone about it, just tried to keep it hidden.  I guess I did not want anyone to feel sorry for me; and also was embarrassed about the situation.  I got to the point that everytime I had to leave the house I would have a panic attack.  I have been seeing a counselor adn she has helped me tremendously.  Most people are very understanding and I agree RedAdmin; most people admire us for being able to deal with all we deal with.  There is nothing we can do, so we might as well let people know up front that we have this DD and this happens sometimes.

Posted 4/9/2008 2:03 PM (GMT 0)
GeeBee,

Oh, how I know that feeling!  After 3 resections and periannal crohn's, I have more then my share of accidents.  I know this sounds humiliating, but I wear a long pad or a depend.  If nothing else, this buys me time in my race for the bathroom.  I also carry a spare change of clothes and some wet ones in a back pack.  That way I am always prepared for anything.  If I didn't take 2 imodium every morning, I would not be able to leave my house.  If you find this is a problem for you, talk it over with your GI.  I'm sure he or she has heard this many times from many patients and will have solution for you that fits your crohn's needs.  Take care, and smiling!  If you have another accident, think of us and remember your not alone.

 

Posted 4/9/2008 9:38 PM (GMT 0)
Thank you everyone, you have helped me put things back into perspective, this is not something that I can help and if people don't understand that, then too bad. I can face them after all I think the fear and embarrassment is felt by me not others.

I will take extra Immodium today just to feel safe but will not make it a habit.

Thank you guys for your support and helping me see things in a different light, I don't know what I would do without you.
Posted 4/9/2008 11:19 PM (GMT 0)
I suggest a spare pair of underwear and pants. If you dont have a locker, drawer or something to keep them in maybe leave the spares in your car. Another option is a sanitary pad placed in the back end of your underwear.
Posted 4/10/2008 12:53 AM (GMT 0)
Dark pants and dark underwear for a few days should help you feel more confident too! Once you have a couple succesful days it should be a lot easier. Remember you can always go home sick without too much explanation if something was to happen or if you get there and just feel totally uncomfortable. Finally, try to avoid situations you can't easily excuse yourself from for a couple days. Or just say to a coworker you have to meet with "I am not feeling so great so if I jet off its nothing personal and I'll be back soon." Last but not least, don't trust a fart, for awhile!
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