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Treatment from both ends - Heather? or ?

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Ulcerative Colitis
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Posted 1/17/2009 8:12 PM (GMT 0)
I know how much you advocate treatment from both ends and I truly do agree.  I ask this before but did not see an answer.  You know I have tried the mesalamine medications and rectal, etc.  Also, tried Colazal.  I have side affects from them all. Seems that the hydocortisone enemas I started last night hopefully will get me into complete remission - last scope in November said - doctor said confined to rectum. 

Ok, obvious question is - what would you think I should be taking from the other end?  Anything now?  I know if these don't work he is thinking "prednisone burst".  I am avoiding that as long as possible.

ElaineNY

Posted 1/18/2009 12:12 AM (GMT 0)
Hi Elaine....The both ends approach is to deal with UC orally for above the rectum and rectally for the rectum and into the sigmoid..depending on what form of med is used.

My UC extends to the sigmoid. I take the oral 5ASA and the enemas to make sure it's all sound (treat and then taper to maintenance). My flares are definitely treated when they first start, so they're low in the rectum anyway..but I continue to use the enemas but concentrate them to the lower part and then up into the sigmoid.

Your situation, what you cannot use. limits your med options.


The enemas in liquid form have more punch I believe regarding med dosage. It will get up into the sigmoid as well..which is a good thing considering your oral options are limited.

I'd definitely give them a true effort trial before going on the pred. If a burst the doc means is a fast taper...then that couls be a good idea for you..maybe a 10 day once and then again if needed...while still on the enemas.

I hope it works for you...it's been a long while for all you've been going through.

quincy
Posted 1/18/2009 12:22 AM (GMT 0)

Thanks Heather,

The plan right now is 2 weeks of the enemas every night.  I was only able to get 1/2 in last night - NP said try to get as much as possible.  You know I have to do it on the toilet so difficult to apply!  After two weeks I am to call her (NP) and she gave me prescription for three weeks so I think there would be a taper with the last 7 if it is working.  After reading here so much about remission and maintainence I am certainly willing to use something for maintain remission if I finally get there.  I just feel so close - like almost grabbing the brass ring and then falling off the horse!!

Thanks so much for your encouragement and information.  I have a hard time talking to my husband as he "freaks out" about blood, etc.  I need this forum to read about those who are going through this also.  At my age - I should be having more fun and I need so bad a knee replacement.  Still planning on April for first one anyway.  Gastro doc said it would be fine and both surgeon and GI docs agree as long as I don' thave an infection or any serious symptoms like anemia.

ElaineNY

Posted 1/18/2009 12:31 AM (GMT 0)
Hi Elaine...the best you can do is try. I'm sure I suggested the butt in the air position to put in the enema..but it might be hard on your knee..oh well.

A half enema is better than none...do wipe it with alcohol, cap it, refrigerate it and use it the next night if you can.??

Hang tough...you've come farther than you were when you first arrived here..it takes time.

It's good to hear the knee replacement is a go from the docs...
What infection would you possibly have to cause the surgery to be cancelled?

quincy
Posted 1/18/2009 1:04 AM (GMT 0)

I know butt in air would be great but I can't knell or even reach "there" if I did!  I am too obese and quite arthritic.  I seem to have no problem retaining the enema for the night - tiny bit may leak out on way to bed but it is only a few steps. Only real problem is being sure the air if out of the container when using it in that position.

I don't plan on reusing the enemas - I only have to pay a co-pay of $3 a month so not worth it. 

They just said any infection could go directly to knee so I would be tested to be sure - urine, blood, etc. - nothing unusual I guess.  I had to postpone last year when I started bleeding as surgeon wanted to be sure of what I had, etc.

ElaineNY

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