Hi everyone - I am new at this but not to Crohn's Disease. I developed symptoms when I was 18 years old (I am 54 now). First, I was diagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome. Then, when 24 years old, I was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis and a couple of years later, needed a colectomy. I had complications and required 8 surgeries in 18 months.
I had a Koch Pouch (continent ileostomy) and no appliance for 27 years. I do not want to bore you so I will just say that in Nov., 2009, I had a bowel obstruction and the Koch Pouch was converted into a permanent standard ileostomy.
I was also diagnosed with Crohn's a few years ago. I am having pain issues and am looking for answers!!!