Proctitis complications

I was diagnosed with ulcerative proctitis 6 months ago (symptoms: mucous and blood in stools). My GI prescribed Canasa (1 month worth). My stools returned to normal for a few weeks, and then symptoms started to reappear as soon as the script ran out. I have now gone through three of the rotations of the Canasa and my symptoms continue to come back as soon as i go off the meds. I have read through the forum a lot in recent months, and it sounds like proctitis can be a real pain to get into remission...but I'm feeling like things are slowly getting worse (more blood, more frequent stools). I am scheduled to get a 2nd opinion for treatment in two weeks.

I have also been having some other more systemic complications that I'm not sure are related to the proctitis. I can't wear regular contacts anymore....one day my contacts just wouldn't come out and were completely stuck to my eyes. I have had to switch to dailies (which has helped)...but also think it is weird that all of a sudden I couldn't wear contacts?? I've had them for 15 years. Eye doctor said I now have "dry eyes."

I also have these strange bumps/rashes that appear on my hands. They are EXTREMELY itchy, usually on my palms and between my fingers, and are worst in the mornings. The only comfort that I get is by interlocking my fingers and rubbing/scratching to try and relieve the itch and burn. Very painful and an issue throughout every day.

Anyone else have similar skin/eye issues?? Any tips/advice that those with proctitis have used that have been useful (either meds or diet/lifestyle changes??)...I'm really frustrated and feel like my doctor and GI aren't concerned about my related issues. I just feel like there is something more to all of this and would love more info to bring to my next appointment...

I agree with sherbear. This is a chronic illness and needs to be treated on a long term basis. Even when you're in remission, continued use of rectal mesalamine will keep you there. For the OP, go see a dermatologist about your hands and an opthalmologist about your eyes.

Healme,

Welcome to the forum.

I love your user name!

I am sorry about your recent diagnosis and your extra systemic symptoms (i.e. joint pains, eye problems, skin rashes).

Those are not uncommon with UC. And it's good you're getting it all checked out.

IMO, it's very important to be on a regimen that works for you, be it certain meds (if they indeed are helpful in reducing your symptoms), supplements and yes, diet as well.

I didn't have much luck with the meds, so I had to find my own way.

And for me, it was a combination of diet modification - as in eating an anti-inflammatory diet, certain supplements, probiotics, and LDN, low dose naltrexone.

Are you on any probiotics?

Any supplements?

Any diet?

If you are interesting in getting more info on what helped put me in remission, please go to this link: https://www.healingwell.com/community/default.aspx?f=38&m=1666318 , and look at the 11th post.

I hope you feel better and let us know how we can help you.