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Newly Diagnosed - Swelling on Left Side

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Ulcerative Colitis
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Posted 3/9/2008 2:54 PM (GMT 0)
In mid-December, I started experiencing pain in my lower back, which then localized in my left side in early January. After several doctors visits and tests, I was diagnosed with colitis in early February. Despite being on Asacol since then and flagyl for the last two weeks, I am still swollen and experiencing discomfort on my left side from under my rib cage to the bone of my butt cheek.

Is this common for anyone else? I've been looking for information online and haven't found anything helpful. Thanks so much for any assistance in advance! This site has been very helpful so far in answering my questions and providing support.

Be well.
Posted 3/9/2008 3:10 PM (GMT 0)
First thing I would want to know is how your diagnosis was confirmed. If you just recently were diagnosed, make sure you get several opinions to confirm that you really do have UC. There are other causes of your symptoms that should be ruled out first. Feel better.
Posted 3/9/2008 3:15 PM (GMT 0)
My doctor confirmed it after a colonscopy. I've also had an upper GI series and X-ray of my colon. The problem is that my primary GI is out of the country on vacation until this Wednesday (when I have my first follow-up scheduled). The on-call doctor in his place has been helpful, but understandably hasn't had time to really sit down and go over the case with me from the beginning. When I called to let him know the discomfort on my left side had increased, he prescribed the flagyl.

As for other symptoms, I had bloody stool the week prior to the colonoscopy. I've also been experiencing joint pain in my left knee and toes, as well as the occasional pain in my lower spine. I've also had frequent canker sores prior to being placed on Asacol.
Posted 3/9/2008 3:55 PM (GMT 0)
I get pain in my lower back when my sacro-ileitis is acting up. It will hurt from just above my waist all the way to the hip joint. Sounds like this could be what you're experiencing. If I put my fingers about an inch above my crease and slide it across about halfway to the side, I'll find a very sore spot, and if I massage it really hard it will ease the pain.

A trick my PT taught me is to lie on your back and flex your leg on that side up against your chest with the hip and knee both bent. Grab it with your hands and pull it in tight, then let it bounce out. Do that several times. It really seems to help. Ab stretching and strengthening exercises help me also. You might try some gentle stretching to see if that helps you.

Welcome to HealingWell. I'm sorry that you have UC, but glad that you found our forum. I think you'll be pleased with the support and information our members can provide. Feel better soon, Nicole.
Posted 3/9/2008 10:23 PM (GMT 0)
Thanks for the suggestion Judy - I'm going to try it out tonight. I've had the pain on my left side consistently since January - in both the front and back, with the swelling and minimal to no relief. Does this feeling ever go away completely?
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