Crohns or Food Allergies

I got diagnosed with Chrons about two weeks ago. According to the doctor, I have a high level of antibodies for Chrons. However, the camera test results were normal and there is no damage to my intestines. To be frankly honest, I did not even know I had it. Over the past two years, I had about three episodes of vomiting and diarrhea. I thought it was just food poison. After all, the symptoms only lasted about 30 minutes.

Even though I had a food allergies since I was 20 years old, it was not a severe problem until the last five years. At the age of 43, my food allergies became severe. My body appears to be producing antibodies against the food I am still able to consume. I practically live off of benadryl and atarax. A doctor put me on dexamethason for about six weeks to counteract the food allergies. I felt great until I started to get some of the unpleasant side effects. My case seems to be mystery for the doctors, and I am miserable and highly frustrated with the situation. Since the Chrons is not active, I don't understand how it could be causing my food allergies. Perhaps, the food allergies are causing the Chrons. I don't know the answer, but my guess seems to be as good as any doctor's.

*Gave your posrt a title:)*

Post Edited By Moderator (Nanners) : 8/9/2011 7:43:05 AM (GMT-6)

Yes, the pill camera test and colonoscopy were normal. On August 30, I have an appointment scheduled to see a top-notch allergist and researcher from USF, Dr. Sleasman. He is waiting for the results of the pill camera test. Hopefully, Dr. Sleasman can determine the cause of my problem. I still have to get tested for a T-cell dysfunction. A doctor I saw in March gave me immunoglobulin without confirmation of the need for it. Therefore, I have to wait several months until the antibodies are completely out of my system before a T-cell test can be ordered by Dr. Sleasman. Although Dr. Sleasman states that a T-cell dysfunction is rare, it needs to be ruled out. At this point, I just want to get a diagnosis and the proper treatment.

I am not aware of any family members that have an immune system problem. Is Cimzia a drug used to control Chrons? Are there any periods of time where you don't have to take medication for the Chron's? Did you suffer from food allergies before or after the Chron's diagnosis? Have you ever taken dexamethason? I terminated the medication in June and had a problem with swelling in my legs, ankles and face ever since. Dr. Lopez put me on triamterene to eliminate the water weight. However, once I stop taking it, the swelling reappears. Tomorrow, I am going to see if I can set up an appointment with my primary care physician as so as possible. I don't understand how some people can stay on dethamethason for long periods of time. The side effects are horrible.

Hopefully, God will answer my prayers on Aug. 30.

One of my doctor's told me that my intestines healed themselves, and that is the reason why the pill test was normal. I don't know if a person's body can heal itself. If so, at what point? Everyone I talked to that has Chrons certainly did not mention anything about the reversal of all the damage after diagnosis. I believe the antibody test is inaccurate. Anyway, I should have more information on Aug 30.

So, your condition apparently got worse despite the medication. I am glad the medication you are taking is helping to suppress the symptoms. At this point, I am confused and just want a diagnosis. Do you have food allergies? My doctor claims Chrons can be the cause of my problem with food allergies.

Good news. Yesterday, I saw my primary care physician about the swelling in my legs, face and ankles. He said, I am still experiencing side effects from taking dexamethason . The swelling to should disappear on its own if I continue to exercise. He also recommended discontinuing the water elimination pill. No water weight to deal with today.

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