Recently diagnosed, is this normal?

I am new here and hope that this type of thread is acceptable.

I was just diagnosed this month with pancolonic UC after having what I now know were flares since February.
I've been reading some of the threads here and many people seem to have symptoms that aren't easily as controlled as mine seem to be or they are on much more medication. After being on Lialda (see sig) for a few weeks I'm nearly having normal movements. I've even gone out to eat and didn't have any sudden effects. The only thing that I really still have is a lactose intolerance, but the GI doctor says that it should go away eventually.

So is this normal to begin to have a normal life again so soon? Thoughts?

Welcome to the forum, and how wonderful the Lialda has worked so well for you! If I were you I would learn as much as I could about the disease but - be happy you've responded well, and don't angst about the "what if's."
Studies show that if we continue to take our meds during remission, for maintentance, we are likely to be in remission longer; if I were you I would continue to take the Lialda per your doc's advice.
And, yes, as are all different, so keep note of what seems to help or hurt you!

Thanks for the replies.

I have some lacataid from before I got diagnosed that I might try again soon. Its been months since I've had milk and I'm starting to miss it.

Stay consistent with your meds! After a few months of doing much better, I was skipping doses here and there and then WHAM! Stress event + inconsistents meds = major flare with blood and stuff.

But yeah, many, many people with UC find it VERY manageable with medication. Glad you're doing well!

Count your blessings. I had my first colonoscopy not because I had any symptoms but because you are supposed to get one in your mid-50's. The doctor said I had ulcerative colitis. I did not know what that was. I thought it was an inconvenience like hemorrhoids or something. Little did I know.

Then about 2 years later all hell broke loose with my first flare and I had no idea what hit me. I am in remission now and carefully watch my diet but if I had to do it all over again I would have been more careful after my diagnosis. An ounce of prevention is worth ten tons of cure.

Some people get diagnosed and then are symptom free for the rest of their lives. Hope you are one of them. Good luck.