Bile

Yes, this was the norm for me with my UC flare. This is very common with pancolitis or even just reasonably extensive inflammation. Bile is re-absorbed in the terminal ileum and colon -- if you have diarrhea moving your output through the TI and colon too fast, the bile won't be fully absorbed. This gets doubly bad if you have inflammation in the ileum (backwash ileitis, ~15-20% of pancolitis sufferers develop it).

Cholestyramine is a medication that help to bind the bile and reduce the amount that comes out with your BMs. It is pretty gross (it's a powder) and you have to time it correctly because it can also reduce absorption of your meds, but it was worth taking for me. I would also recommend using a bidet or wet wipes after bowel movements to make sure you clean yourself of all the bile (it's very acidic), use soft TP, pat don't rub, and try applying something like A&D or Calmoseptine after BMs.

yes it was my first symptom,

before I started to bleed I could not tell if I was peeing or if it was bile! 

 

Yea I get it too. Especially, when I'm bleeding pretty good. Once the blood gets under control the mucous and bile seem to follow suite. But, my inflammation is usually far from over.

Pluot, good advice on the supplement I've never heard of that.

Ps- I also follow your blog, as with my recent flares I've been exploring surgical options. Currently trying remicade in hopes it works.

I am also, planning on surgery.