Community Forum

Have a question, or want to share your own tips and experiences? Join the discussion in the community forum. You must be registered to participate. Our forums are moderated by Crohn's & Colitis Foundation staff to facilitate a safe environment.

Struggling to find answers


Fri, September 01, 2023 11:13 PM

Hi, I've been struggling to get a diagnosis since I started having GI issues in 2017. I've been told that there's nothing wrong and it's in my head, we couldn't find anything so it's IBS to now being told you could be microscopic colitis or crohn's. 

I am struggling to get my life back on track as this has taken over. From 2017 to 2021, my symptoms were manageable and was getting on with my life. In June 2021, I moved from the UK to the USA and now I've never been worse. I haven't had a solid movement since I've moved, my cramps are getting worse and my heartburn too. Any medicine I get prescribed works for about a week before I start getting worse, and sometimes it get worse than before the medication. 

I'm open to any suggestions that would make my life better

FPO KatSchneider
Joined Sep 1, 2023

Mon, December 25, 2023 5:42 PM

Reply posted for KatSchneider.

To maintain my stool :

1.0  I use 2x 2mg Loperamide (Immodium) in the morning and 1 at night (if needed).
2.0 I use the name brand "NOW" . The Psyllium is a binder and will definitely help you. This is a healthy brand with NO ADDITIVES that Metamusal has. When I was not using the NOW brand I could not stop the continual runny stools. I can maintain (and travel-yea!) and my guts feel better. ! I take 3 heaping teaspoons every morning and a 2 spoon dose at night (if needed). I mix it with Muscle Milk Protien powder with a teaspoon of Bragg's vinegar and a teaspoon of honey on occasion. I call this my "morning tonic".

NOW Supplements, Whole Psyllium Husks, Non-GMO Project Verified, Soluble Fiber, 16-Ounce

FPO Yanasi
Joined Dec 25, 2023

Sat, September 09, 2023 6:13 PM

Reply posted for KatSchneider.

Yes, I've had two. One in the UK, where they couldn't find anything. Another one here in the states where they found inflammation in my large and small intestines. My GI doctor said that it's potentially microscopic colitis but some of my symptoms are linking to crohns. He's treating me for both at the moment, so I'm on steroids. I'm not sure they are working as I'm still suffering from diarrhea

FPO KatSchneider
Joined Sep 1, 2023

Tue, September 05, 2023 3:56 PM

Reply posted for KatSchneider.

Have you seen a GI physician and gotten a colonscopy done?

That is how they usually confirm a diagnosis of IBD. I would be surprised if your physicians suggested a diagnosis of IBD without any scope work. 

FPO SeekingWellness
Joined Apr 16, 2023

Related Topics

Crohns Qs new hair loss a...
Author Image ghand17
Joined Oct 23, 2022

I am also newly diagnosed. I was put on Inflectra ....

read more

Is it possible to go undi...
Author Image alex101
Joined Feb 12, 2023

I was diagnosed with RA, Psoriasis, and IBS when I....

read more

Can IBD be detected in re...
Author Image Tsf57
Joined Feb 22, 2023

I’ve suffered with IBS/IBS symptoms for many....

read more

*Any information on the Crohn's & Colitis Community site should not replace your physician's advice. Always check with your personal physician before taking any action regarding your health.

Statements or opinions expressed by participants, physicians and other independent authors reflect the views of each such individual and do not necessarily reflect the views or any official policy of the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation.