question on trying to get to remission

Pamela, you need to watch the joint soreness because people with IBD are more prone to arthritis then the normal population. If the joint soreness doesn't go away or less, you should have your doc test you for arthritis.

As for the flares, everyone has their own definition as to what qualifies as a flare. But to me, loose stool, frequency, urgency, bleeding and cramping is a flare. I doubt my colon will ever be normal again and right now I am going about 2-3 times a day with semi solid to mush. I am not bleeding (which I am tickled over) and some would consider this a flare while me and my GI don't. It's just my new "normal". But generally if you are feeling unwell and if you are experiencing pain with the above symptoms then yes I would say you are flaring.

why aren't you on any other meds such as 5ASA oral and rectal?

You definitely are flaring...sometimes a c-scope and especially the prep can exacerbate symptoms or trigger a flare if it's somewhat there.

Just because you are smoking and having some of the symptoms relieved, you'll sill have slow simmering inflammation, which in the long-run can be of more serious consequences.

Hope you reconsider to get on other meds firstly.

quincy