Second flareup ever. Feeling like a freak.

Hi and Welcome!

I am sorry you're feeling so terrible and stressed. I think the majority of us notice stress making our symptoms worse. I am not sure if it is the stress that brings on the flares or the flares that bring on the stress but being stressed definitely doesn't help the situation. It sounds like you're trying to do a lot right now, sometimes when we have this awful disease, we have to slow down and realize that we need to take it easy until we heal. I know that's nearly impossible with 3 children but it is necessary to get your health in order. Try to stay calm, you will get back to being the active fun-loving person. When I am flaring badly, I forget that this disease is full of ups and downs and you're in a down but you will have many, many good times. I have been trying to look at the positive lately, when I am down, instead of thinking about how terrible it is, I think about being better. I think taking an antidepressant has helped my negativity issues but my UC has been helped by working with a great GI who I trust. Have you been in to see your doctor? You may bbe able to beat this with something as simple as a nightly enema for a few weeks. I use rectal medication every night but some people only need to use them when they flare up. There are 2 types, mesalamine and steroid. Steroid medications are not for longterm use but can help to get you out of a flare up and you can continue with the mesalamine enemas long-term if they help you. Call your GI and see if he can offer some options. Another option may be to switch to a different oral medication.