Question:

How many are there of us? Ds

I wish more people would participate actively.  It as been surprising where I have picked up some info to fit into this diabetes puzzle. I have a big thing about collective knowledge. I am not fond of those that try to take over– share and profit.   Arguments only ruin the group and it’s purposes.                                    Guy.

Response:

If you are diabetic then too many. We need people to de-lurk and share their experiences with us. Welcome Ds. Diana

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – How many are there of us? Ds

Response:

I second this. The arguing gets old and tiresome. I need the knowledge too. I don’t know enough to help but sure would like to know enough to help me then others. Di

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – How many are there of us? Ds I wish more people would participate actively.  It as been surprising where I have picked up some info to fit into this diabetes puzzle. I have a big thing about collective knowledge. I am not fond of those that try to take over– share and profit.   Arguments only ruin the group and it’s purposes.                                    Guy.

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – How many are there of us? Ds

Response:

How many are there of us? Ds

I have been lurking.  My name is Linda and I’m 44 years old.  I’m a new T2 diabetic, dx’d 2 months ago.  I have been told I have antibodies against my beta cells/pancreas, and so have a 90% probability of starting insulin in about a year.  I’m not sure if that would make me a T1 at that time…I haven’t figured that out yet.  I am on 3 meds, Avandia, Amaryl and Glucophage and am almost at normal BG.  When I was diagnosed, my BG was ~500 during the day, with a fasting glucose of 387.  My vision was terrible!  My fasting BGs are now ~120-130, and I have about 10  more pounds to lose to reach a healthy weight for me – doctor’s orders. I also have Crohn’s Disease, which has no known cause, but I think the idea is more and more that Crohn’s is an autoimmune disease, and I believe diabetes is an autoimmune disorder AFAIK, so there  must be a connection.  My older brother is a T1 diabetic, as well as my nephew. My other brother has Addison’s Disease, which is another autoimmune disease.  It’s curious how there are so many autoimmune disorders in my family. Those are some basic facts about me and my diabetes.  I’m glad to be delurking and look forward to learning more with this newsgroup. I think I saw someone else who’s named Linda, so I can sign off with  my initials. LC

Response:

Welcome Linda, It is nice to get to know you. I am Diana . I am type 2 diagnosed about four years ago. I started out on Rezulin and did great with it. I loved it and they went and pulled it. Now I am on Glucophage XR and Glucotrol XL both taken twice a day. I am also on 25 units Lantus at night and that is a Godsend for those morning highs. Sounds like you are doing great and I am glad you de-lurked and hoping to share more with you. Diana

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – How many are there of us? Ds I have been lurking.  My name is Linda and I’m 44 years old.  I’m a new T2 diabetic, dx’d 2 months ago.  I have been told I have antibodies against my beta cells/pancreas, and so have a 90% probability of starting insulin in about a year.  I’m not sure if that would make me a T1 at that time…I haven’t figured that out yet.  I am on 3 meds, Avandia, Amaryl and Glucophage and am almost at normal BG.  When I was diagnosed, my BG was ~500 during the day, with a fasting glucose of 387.  My vision was terrible!  My fasting BGs are now ~120-130, and I have about 10  more pounds to lose to reach a healthy weight for me – doctor’s orders. I also have Crohn’s Disease, which has no known cause, but I think the idea is more and more that Crohn’s is an autoimmune disease, and I believe diabetes is an autoimmune disorder AFAIK, so there  must be a connection.  My older brother is a T1 diabetic, as well as my nephew. My other brother has Addison’s Disease, which is another autoimmune disease.  It’s curious how there are so many autoimmune disorders in my family. Those are some basic facts about me and my diabetes.  I’m glad to be delurking and look forward to learning more with this newsgroup. I think I saw someone else who’s named Linda, so I can sign off with my initials. LC

Response:

Thank you for the welcome!  I’m glad to be here, and I have found this newsgroup to be very interesting and helpful. I’m also interested to know if there are other diabetics here who have Crohn’s Disease, and how has it affected you? LC

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Welcome Linda, It is nice to get to know you. I am Diana . I am type 2 diagnosed about four years ago. I started out on Rezulin and did great with it. I loved it and they went and pulled it. Now I am on Glucophage XR and Glucotrol XL both taken twice a day. I am also on 25 units Lantus at night and that is a Godsend for those morning highs. Sounds like you are doing great and I am glad you de-lurked and hoping to share more with you. Diana How many are there of us? Ds I have been lurking.  My name is Linda and I’m 44 years old.  I’m a new T2 diabetic, dx’d 2 months ago.  I have been told I have antibodies against my beta cells/pancreas, and so have a 90% probability of starting insulin in about a year.  I’m not sure if that would make me a T1 at that time…I haven’t figured that out yet.  I am on 3 meds, Avandia, Amaryl and Glucophage and am almost at normal BG.  When I was diagnosed, my BG was ~500 during the day, with a fasting glucose of 387.  My vision was terrible!  My fasting BGs are now ~120-130, and I have about 10  more pounds to lose to reach a healthy weight for me – doctor’s orders. I also have Crohn’s Disease, which has no known cause, but I think the idea is more and more that Crohn’s is an autoimmune disease, and I believe diabetes is an autoimmune disorder AFAIK, so there  must be a connection.  My older brother is a T1 diabetic, as well as my nephew. My other brother has Addison’s Disease, which is another autoimmune disease.  It’s curious how there are so many autoimmune disorders in my family. Those are some basic facts about me and my diabetes.  I’m glad to be delurking and look forward to learning more with this newsgroup. I think I saw someone else who’s named Linda, so I can sign off with my initials. LC

Response:

Hi Linda, I am not sure about now but there were a few in the past that did. Hopefully others will see and respond if they do. If you do have questions though just ask and we will all try to help find resources and such for you. Diana

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Thank you for the welcome!  I’m glad to be here, and I have found this newsgroup to be very interesting and helpful. I’m also interested to know if there are other diabetics here who have Crohn’s Disease, and how has it affected you? LC Welcome Linda, It is nice to get to know you. I am Diana . I am type 2 diagnosed about four years ago. I started out on Rezulin and did great with it. I loved it and they went and pulled it. Now I am on Glucophage XR and Glucotrol XL both taken twice a day. I am also on 25 units Lantus at night and that is a Godsend for those morning highs. Sounds like you are doing great and I am glad you de-lurked and hoping to share more with you. Diana How many are there of us? Ds I have been lurking.  My name is Linda and I’m 44 years old.  I’m a new T2 diabetic, dx’d 2 months ago.  I have been told I have antibodies against my beta cells/pancreas, and so have a 90% probability of starting insulin in about a year.  I’m not sure if that would make me a T1 at that time…I haven’t figured that out yet.  I am on 3 meds, Avandia, Amaryl and Glucophage and am almost at normal BG.  When I was diagnosed, my BG was ~500 during the day, with a fasting glucose of 387.  My vision was terrible!  My fasting BGs are now ~120-130, and I have about 10  more pounds to lose to reach a healthy weight for me – doctor’s orders. I also have Crohn’s Disease, which has no known cause, but I think the idea is more and more that Crohn’s is an autoimmune disease, and I believe diabetes is an autoimmune disorder AFAIK, so there must be a connection.  My older brother is a T1 diabetic, as well as my nephew. My other brother has Addison’s Disease, which is another autoimmune disease.  It’s curious how there are so many autoimmune disorders in my family. Those are some basic facts about me and my diabetes.  I’m glad to be delurking and look forward to learning more with this newsgroup. I think I saw someone else who’s named Linda, so I can sign off with my initials. LC

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – How many are there of us? Ds I have been lurking.  My name is Linda and I’m 44 years old.  I’m a new T2 diabetic, dx’d 2 months ago.  I have been told I have antibodies against my beta cells/pancreas, and so have a 90% probability of starting insulin in about a year.  I’m not sure if that would make me a T1 at that time…I haven’t figured that out yet.  I am on 3 meds, Avandia, Amaryl and Glucophage and am almost at normal BG.  When I was diagnosed, my BG was ~500 during the day, with a fasting glucose of 387.  My vision was terrible!  My fasting BGs are now ~120-130, and I have about 10  more pounds to lose to reach a healthy weight for me – doctor’s orders. I also have Crohn’s Disease, which has no known cause, but I think the idea is more and more that Crohn’s is an autoimmune disease, and I believe diabetes is an autoimmune disorder AFAIK, so there  must be a connection.  My older brother is a T1 diabetic, as well as my nephew. My other brother has Addison’s Disease, which is another autoimmune disease.  It’s curious how there are so many autoimmune disorders in my family. Those are some basic facts about me and my diabetes.  I’m glad to be delurking and look forward to learning more with this newsgroup. I think I saw someone else who’s named Linda, so I can sign off with  my initials. LC

Hi LC, and welcome to the group. My mother was dx’d T2 in March of 2002.  She thought she had the flu and a swollen foot.  When my brother got to her house, he determined she was in really bad shape.  The doc at the ER dx’d diabetes with a fasting bg near 500, and she underwent an emergency amputation of two toes due to gangrene. For a solid week, every day brought a new piece of bad news about Mom’s health. Mom was living in Colorado at that time.  My home is in Oklahoma.  I spent three months in Colorado away from my family while she recovered.  I drove her home with me the day after the docs said she was healthy enough to travel. When I finally got home with Mom, things didn’t get back to normal like I had expected they would.  I even tried to go back to work (I had and awesome boss). Mom had too many health issues, too many new routines, too much to I didn’t have the first clue about what I was doing.  I was shedding tears of frustration, sorrow, guilt and anger the night I found ASD.  I lurked for a couple of weeks before diving in and posting an intro where I just poured it all out for the group to see if they could do something with all those little pieces of one huge puzzle.  I was so nervous about posting to a news group that I walked away from the computer for a full hour before deciding to click send. All of the regulars scooped me up, and embraced me with kind words of support, and many of them that had been down the same road Mom was on gave me valuable information. So, just like Old Al promised nearly a year ago…….the insulin is no big thing…I can’t imagine how Mom’s life would be without it.  I can scan a menu in any restaurant, and within 30 seconds, I know what Mom can safely eat there.  Mom has made improvements in leaps and bounds while adjusting to the life changing complications that resulted from her being an undiagnosed and uncontrolled diabetic for what the doctors agree was at least 6-10 years. Marie, Caretaker

Response:

Hi Linda,  welcome to this fine group,even though there are those who love to argue over trivial stuff. My wife and I are both T2’s (special isn’t it) . My understanding is T1’s never had the chance to be T2’s because their pancrease didn’t work in the first place or didn’t work properly. My way of looking at T2’s we grow into it by a combination of things like genes, overweight, illnesses or what ever. There will be those who have far more knowledge of diabeties than I will ever have and will give you a better discription of T1 vs. T2  . If you have any questions or even hints of your own let us know. We are not doctors but use our own experiences that may help someone else with similar problems. As always, it is better to ask your Dr. what is best for you. Ira T2 diag Dec. 2000 glucophage xr 500mg twice a day  (my morning highs are getting higher guys) Ms. Patty T2 diag.  somewhere in 1998   She is in fine control ,  rats, sigh! — — Happy moments, praise God Difficult moments, seek God. Quiet moments, worship God. Painful moments, trust God. Every moment, thank God.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi Linda, I am not sure about now but there were a few in the past that did. Hopefully others will see and respond if they do. If you do have questions though just ask and we will all try to help find resources and such for you. Diana Thank you for the welcome!  I’m glad to be here, and I have found this newsgroup to be very interesting and helpful. I’m also interested to know if there are other diabetics here who have Crohn’s Disease, and how has it affected you? LC Welcome Linda, It is nice to get to know you. I am Diana . I am type 2 diagnosed about four years ago. I started out on Rezulin and did great with it. I loved it and they went and pulled it. Now I am on Glucophage XR and Glucotrol XL both taken twice a day. I am also on 25 units Lantus at night and that is a Godsend for those morning highs. Sounds like you are doing great and I am glad you de-lurked and hoping to share more with you. Diana How many are there of us? Ds I have been lurking.  My name is Linda and I’m 44 years old.  I’m a new T2 diabetic, dx’d 2 months ago.  I have been told I have antibodies against my beta cells/pancreas, and so have a 90% probability of starting insulin in about a year.  I’m not sure if that would make me a T1 at that time…I haven’t figured that out yet.  I am on 3 meds, Avandia, Amaryl and Glucophage and am almost at normal BG.  When I was diagnosed, my BG was ~500 during the day, with a fasting glucose of 387.  My vision was terrible!  My fasting BGs are now ~120-130, and I have about 10  more pounds to lose to reach a healthy weight for me – doctor’s orders. I also have Crohn’s Disease, which has no known cause, but I think the idea is more and more that Crohn’s is an autoimmune disease, and I believe diabetes is an autoimmune disorder AFAIK, so there must be a connection.  My older brother is a T1 diabetic, as well as my nephew. My other brother has Addison’s Disease, which is another autoimmune disease.  It’s curious how there are so many autoimmune disorders in my family. Those are some basic facts about me and my diabetes.  I’m glad to be delurking and look forward to learning more with this newsgroup. I think I saw someone else who’s named Linda, so I can sign off with my initials. LC

Response:

Obviously my ‘lurking cloak’ is faulty if y’all know that lurkers are here.  :) I was diagnosed 2 weeks ago and immediately put on Glucophage with no real other instructions except to make a follow up appointment in 3 weeks.  Because I do not have insurance, this was my first time seeing this doctor, and he acknowledged that he’s not a diabetes expert.  In the meantime, I’ve picked up a few books and have been surfing the ‘net, and also gleaning information from this group.   Since I am so new to this change in my life, I will probably still be more of a lurker than a participant, at least until I have some to contribute. I appear to have my BG under control already as my highest reading has been 122 (waking up) during the last 5 days.  Initially it was 410. As with a lot of the other newbies, the whole "what can I eat" thing is my main source of frustration.  I don’t really cook except for real simple things.  Also, since I’m not trying to lose weight, I’ve so far ignored the whole ‘portions’ thing.  Actually, losing weight was one of the things got me to see a doctor.  I’m 6′7" and currently 185 pounds.  2 years ago I was up to 225, but I thought that eating better and exercising was what brought my weight down.  Oops. OK, well, now that I’ve blathered on about myself, I’m gonna go back to lurking!  heh.  I promise to try to be an active member here.  :) Jason – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – How many are there of us? Ds

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Obviously my ‘lurking cloak’ is faulty if y’all know that lurkers are here.  :) I was diagnosed 2 weeks ago and immediately put on Glucophage with no real other instructions except to make a follow up appointment in 3 weeks.  Because I do not have insurance, this was my first time seeing this doctor, and he acknowledged that he’s not a diabetes expert.  In the meantime, I’ve picked up a few books and have been surfing the ‘net, and also gleaning information from this group. Since I am so new to this change in my life, I will probably still be more of a lurker than a participant, at least until I have some to contribute. I appear to have my BG under control already as my highest reading has been 122 (waking up) during the last 5 days.  Initially it was 410. As with a lot of the other newbies, the whole "what can I eat" thing is my main source of frustration.  I don’t really cook except for real simple things.  Also, since I’m not trying to lose weight, I’ve so far ignored the whole ‘portions’ thing.  Actually, losing weight was one of the things got me to see a doctor.  I’m 6′7" and currently 185 pounds.  2 years ago I was up to 225, but I thought that eating better and exercising was what brought my weight down.  Oops. OK, well, now that I’ve blathered on about myself, I’m gonna go back to lurking!  heh.  I promise to try to be an active member here.  :)

Welcome to the group!  And good to see that your BG is in control.  But seeing as how you lost weight prior to diagnosis, I worry that you might in fact be type 1 and not type 2.  Type 1’s go through a phase called the "honeymoon" where they may seem to be able to control with meds or even with no meds or insulin for a period of time.  If you find that your BG suddenly gets much higher and you can’t control it, see your Dr. right away.  I’m no Dr.  I’m just basing this on your symptoms. As for the diet, your best bet would be to see a dietician.  Tell him or her what kinds of foods you like and that you don’t do much cooking.  These days it’s easy to get prepared foods, fast foods, and takeout foods.  It’s just a matter of choosing the right things.  In the meantime, you might try buying those bagged salads and topping them with some cheese and those strips of cooked chicken.  Since weight is not a concern, you could add regular salad dressing.  As for carbs, that’s really a matter of preference and how well your body handles them.  You say that your BG has been fine.  So you must be doing that part right.  Your Glucophage has probably not kicked in yet. When it does, you might find that you can eat more carbs still.  Hang in there.  It gets easier as time goes on. — Type 2 http://users.bestweb.net/~jbove/

Response:

Hey Jason ! Welcome and hope to learn some from you. Glad you decided to de-lurk Diana

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Obviously my ‘lurking cloak’ is faulty if y’all know that lurkers are here.  :) I was diagnosed 2 weeks ago and immediately put on Glucophage with no real other instructions except to make a follow up appointment in 3 weeks.  Because I do not have insurance, this was my first time seeing this doctor, and he acknowledged that he’s not a diabetes expert. In the meantime, I’ve picked up a few books and have been surfing the ‘net, and also gleaning information from this group. Since I am so new to this change in my life, I will probably still be more of a lurker than a participant, at least until I have some to contribute. I appear to have my BG under control already as my highest reading has been 122 (waking up) during the last 5 days.  Initially it was 410. As with a lot of the other newbies, the whole "what can I eat" thing is my main source of frustration.  I don’t really cook except for real simple things.  Also, since I’m not trying to lose weight, I’ve so far ignored the whole ‘portions’ thing.  Actually, losing weight was one of the things got me to see a doctor.  I’m 6′7" and currently 185 pounds.  2 years ago I was up to 225, but I thought that eating better and exercising was what brought my weight down.  Oops. OK, well, now that I’ve blathered on about myself, I’m gonna go back to lurking!  heh.  I promise to try to be an active member here.  :) Jason How many are there of us? Ds

Response:

Jason, Even questions are contributing!  I learn from people answering them! I’m kinda new too.. 3 mos.. type 2, also.  No meds here, just diet and exercise. Welcome! Linda – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Obviously my ‘lurking cloak’ is faulty if y’all know that lurkers are here.  :) I was diagnosed 2 weeks ago and immediately put on Glucophage with no real other instructions except to make a follow up appointment in 3 weeks.  Because I do not have insurance, this was my first time seeing this doctor, and he acknowledged that he’s not a diabetes expert.  In the meantime, I’ve picked up a few books and have been surfing the ‘net, and also gleaning information from this group.   Since I am so new to this change in my life, I will probably still be more of a lurker than a participant, at least until I have some to contribute. I appear to have my BG under control already as my highest reading has been 122 (waking up) during the last 5 days.  Initially it was 410. As with a lot of the other newbies, the whole "what can I eat" thing is my main source of frustration.  I don’t really cook except for real simple things.  Also, since I’m not trying to lose weight, I’ve so far ignored the whole ‘portions’ thing.  Actually, losing weight was one of the things got me to see a doctor.  I’m 6′7" and currently 185 pounds. 2 years ago I was up to 225, but I thought that eating better and exercising was what brought my weight down.  Oops. OK, well, now that I’ve blathered on about myself, I’m gonna go back to lurking!  heh.  I promise to try to be an active member here.  :) Jason How many are there of us? Ds

Join us in the Diabetic-Talk Chatroom on UnderNet /server irc.undernet.org — /join #Diabetic-Talk More info: http://www.diabetic-talk.org/

Response:

Thank you for the welcome!  I’m glad to be here, and I have found this newsgroup to be very interesting and helpful. I’m also interested to know if there are other diabetics here who have Crohn’s Disease, and how has it affected you? LC

HiLc, Welcome, I have a niece with Crohn’s Disease, she had an op a couple of years ago to remove some stuff and thought she was going to have to wear a bag for the rest of her natural. But good fortune was with ther and there was sufficient good tissue to avoid that outcome. She is not Diabetic though. Small mercies eh? Good luck with the weight loss, I was Dx’d three months ago type 2 and have since gone down from 196 lbs to 177 lbs [ as of this morning] but most of that was not as a result of deliberate dieting. There’s a lot to learn here as I am sure you are well aware. i look forward to your contributions. Pete Diagnosed 20/03/03 Type II D&E + Metformin

Response:

How many are there of us? Ds

    Hopefully, lots and lots and lots.    Reading the two diabetes newsgroups every night has resulted in significant improvements to my health and quality of life. Almost everything I post is composed with the thought that some lurker, who is lacking some pieces of really critical information about this disease, will suddenly realize that this stuff applies to him/her, and he/she had better pay close attention. . .and maybe do something about it. Oops. . .almost forgot. . .I am certain that reading the newsgroups every night has resulted in significant improvement to my projected life span. Old Al (Current holder of the World Record for Old Age, sub-class,  men in my mother’s family)

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Obviously my ‘lurking cloak’ is faulty if y’all know that lurkers are here.  :) I was diagnosed 2 weeks ago and immediately put on Glucophage with no real other instructions except to make a follow up appointment in 3 weeks.  Because I do not have insurance, this was my first time seeing this doctor, and he acknowledged that he’s not a diabetes expert.  In the meantime, I’ve picked up a few books and have been surfing the ‘net, and also gleaning information from this group.   Since I am so new to this change in my life, I will probably still be more of a lurker than a participant, at least until I have some to contribute. I appear to have my BG under control already as my highest reading has been 122 (waking up) during the last 5 days.  Initially it was 410. As with a lot of the other newbies, the whole "what can I eat" thing is my main source of frustration.  I don’t really cook except for real simple things.  Also, since I’m not trying to lose weight, I’ve so far ignored the whole ‘portions’ thing.  Actually, losing weight was one of the things got me to see a doctor.  I’m 6′7" and currently 185 pounds. 2 years ago I was up to 225, but I thought that eating better and exercising was what brought my weight down.  Oops. OK, well, now that I’ve blathered on about myself, I’m gonna go back to lurking!  heh.  I promise to try to be an active member here.  :) Jason How many are there of us? Ds

Hi Jason, It seems that your background is similar to my own. I was loosing weight and just thought that laying off the beer for a while was doing it. But I was also loosing muscle as well and my thigh bones at the top started to get too close to the surface so’s I couldn’t lay on my side without pain. That was what prompted me to go to the doc. He thought it was either Diabetes or Cancer. I don’t think you need to be an experienced diabetic in order to contribute here. Your take on things could spur someone onto learning something new. We each have a different way of learning stuff so the varied input and POV will always find an outlet. Besides, this group is also about supporting those who need pshycological and emotional support as well. Many people are isolated either geographically or by other impediments from other diabeticas and perhaps society at large. This place can be a real lifeline for those who need it. So no matter what you might think, there is something you can contribute that someone will find of real use. Besides, one way of learning is to try and help someone else. Ever heard about the teacher who had to teach a subject that he knew nothing about? He is now an expert in that subject. glad you have joined in. Pete Diagnosed 20/03/03 Type II D&E + Metformin

Response:

Welcome lurkers!  At lot of good information, support, corny jokes and people here.  Conflict too, but this is usenet and that’s part of life. Glean the information that applies to you and if you have doubts or questions, ask your MD.  If you’re having a bad day, post.  There are lots of understanding shoulders here on which to cry. c

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – How many are there of us? Ds

Response:

Welcome to our lil club.  What is Crohn’s disease?

http://www.niddk.nih.gov/health/digest/pubs/crohns/crohns.htm Regards, James the Elder

Response:

jump right in and ask questions……. i’m sure you have a ton of them to ask, and lots of people to assist you here! interesting that you have a run of autoimmune diseases in your family, Hashimotos, Diabetes and Multiple Sclerosis are the auto immune……. now my nephew is diagnosed as IBS but they are watching to see if it’s early Chron’s take care, and keep well kate — Join us in the Diabetic-Talk Chatroom on UnderNet /server irc.undernet.org — /join #Diabetic-Talk More info: http://www.diabetic-talk.org/

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – How many are there of us? Ds I have been lurking.  My name is Linda and I’m 44 years old.  I’m a new T2 diabetic, dx’d 2 months ago.  I have been told I have antibodies against my beta cells/pancreas, and so have a 90% probability of starting insulin in about a year.  I’m not sure if that would make me a T1 at that time…I haven’t figured that out yet.  I am on 3 meds, Avandia, Amaryl and Glucophage and am almost at normal BG.  When I was diagnosed, my BG was ~500 during the day, with a fasting glucose of 387.  My vision was terrible!  My fasting BGs are now ~120-130, and I have about 10  more pounds to lose to reach a healthy weight for me – doctor’s orders. I also have Crohn’s Disease, which has no known cause, but I think the idea is more and more that Crohn’s is an autoimmune disease, and I believe diabetes is an autoimmune disorder AFAIK, so there  must be a connection.  My older brother is a T1 diabetic, as well as my nephew. My other brother has Addison’s Disease, which is another autoimmune disease.  It’s curious how there are so many autoimmune disorders in my family. Those are some basic facts about me and my diabetes.  I’m glad to be delurking and look forward to learning more with this newsgroup. I think I saw someone else who’s named Linda, so I can sign off with  my initials. LC

Response:

How many are there of us? Ds

I’ve been lurking for about 6 months. My name is kevin and i’m 51 and weigh 185,  .  May 2001 yas not a good year for me, May 3 i went to the er with what they diagnosed as a heart attack and that was when i found out i was diabetic, i weighed 260 at the time, i had one blockage that was repaired with a stent. Everything went fine until i woke early one morning about a week later with a bad headake, thank god i was staying at my parents house while recovering, they called 911 and then found out i had a stroke due to bleeding around the stent. The stroke effected my fine motor skills on the left side and i had to learn to walk again. Today unless i told you i had a stroke you wouldn’t know, i joined the YMCA and work out 5 – 6 times a week doing cardio and weights. When first diagnosed as diabetic i was taking 3 x 500mg Glucophage, i am down to 1 x 500 mg metformin and my dr.. thinks i may be able to go off of that. My morning bg is anywhere from 75 to 105 depending on what i have for a snack in the evening and after meals my 1 hr bg is somewhere around 140 – 150 and my 2 hr bd is usually under 120. My last 3 HBA1C tests have been in the 5.7 to 5.9 range.My dietition has me on between 270 and 315 grams of carbs total for the day which has worked out so far. I’m kinda unique in that in addition to watching carbs and such i have to also watch saturated and trans fat , cholesterol and sodium, and it makes for such a fun time fiding foods to eat. And btw my last cholesterol test came back total 102, ldl 51 , hdl 43 , triglycerides 51.

Response:

Kevin …….  what a success story you have there snoopy happy dance on your excellent A1c and Chol #’s keep on keeping on! kate — Join us in the Diabetic-Talk Chatroom on UnderNet /server irc.undernet.org — /join #Diabetic-Talk More info: http://www.diabetic-talk.org/ – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’ve been lurking for about 6 months. My name is kevin and i’m 51 and weigh 185,  .  May 2001 yas not a good year for me, May 3 i went to the er with what they diagnosed as a heart attack and that was when i found out i was diabetic, i weighed 260 at the time, i had one blockage that was repaired with a stent. Everything went fine until i woke early one morning about a week later with a bad headake, thank god i was staying at my parents house while recovering, they called 911 and then found out i had a stroke due to bleeding around the stent. The stroke effected my fine motor skills on the left side and i had to learn to walk again. Today unless i told you i had a stroke you wouldn’t know, i joined the YMCA and work out 5 – 6 times a week doing cardio and weights. When first diagnosed as diabetic i was taking 3 x 500mg Glucophage, i am down to 1 x 500 mg metformin and my dr.. thinks i may be able to go off of that. My morning bg is anywhere from 75 to 105 depending on what i have for a snack in the evening and after meals my 1 hr bg is somewhere around 140 – 150 and my 2 hr bd is usually under 120. My last 3 HBA1C tests have been in the 5.7 to 5.9 range.My dietition has me on between 270 and 315 grams of carbs total for the day which has worked out so far. I’m kinda unique in that in addition to watching carbs and such i have to also watch saturated and trans fat , cholesterol and sodium, and it makes for such a fun time fiding foods to eat. And btw my last cholesterol test came back total 102, ldl 51 , hdl 43 , triglycerides 51.

Response:

To everyone who has delurked on this thread, welcome out of the darkness and into the light of knowledge and understanding of diabertes,  We are here to inform you and give y9ou support needed.  You each did yourself a favor. Sorry you are here, but happy you have decided to take charge of your disease. Loretta — In tribute to the United States of America and the State of Israel, two bastions of strength in a world filled with strife and terrorism.

Response:

and into the light of knowledge and understanding of diabertes,

ah….and diabetes, too!!   <G Dana, who thinks diabertes sounds better….. "Live as though there is no tomorrow,  Love as though you have never been hurt,  Dance as if no one is looking…"       Satchel Paige

Response:

Old Al, I’m glad you do post. I always learn something useful from what you have to say! — Jenny 168.5/140.5/138.5 Third Goal 9/1998 – 8/2001 and 11/10/02 – Now http://www.geocities.com/jenny_the_bean How to calculate your need for protein * How much people really lose each month *  Water Weight Gain & Loss * The "Two Gram Cure" for Hunger Cravings * Characteristics of Successful Dieters * Indispensible Low Carb Treats * Should You Count that Low Impact Carb? * Curing Ketobreath * NEW! Exercise Starting from Zero

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – How many are there of us? Ds     Hopefully, lots and lots and lots.    Reading the two diabetes newsgroups every night has resulted in significant improvements to my health and quality of life. Almost everything I post is composed with the thought that some lurker, who is lacking some pieces of really critical information about this disease, will suddenly realize that this stuff applies to him/her, and he/she had better pay close attention. . .and maybe do something about it. Oops. . .almost forgot. . .I am certain that reading the newsgroups every night has resulted in significant improvement to my projected life span. Old Al (Current holder of the World Record for Old Age, sub-class,  men in my mother’s family)

Response:

Hey ho – I’m glad Smiles, TK

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Present! sirk Hiya How are you doing? TK message I’m lurking out here in Cambridge, MA. And if anyone knows anything about a Boston scene…? — semper pax thomas

Response:

I’m lurking out here in Cambridge, MA. And if anyone knows anything about a Boston scene…? — semper pax thomas

Response:

Hiya How are you doing? TK – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’m lurking out here in Cambridge, MA. And if anyone knows anything about a Boston scene…? — semper pax thomas

Response:

Present! sirk

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hiya How are you doing? TK I’m lurking out here in Cambridge, MA. And if anyone knows anything about a Boston scene…? — semper pax thomas

Response:

Seem to be a few lurkers come out the shadows in the last few days , and a few old faces that seem to be mostly lurking these days. Im sure this could be one busy little group , so it would be cool if EVERYONE reading the list posted just one mesage to this thread , just to say u are out there ,  and even better if some stuck about to talk , so come on people don’t be shy …. who is all out there ???

Still hanging around although busy as hell at the moment… Hope everyone had a cool festive season… mine rocked Later Sean – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Catalyst

Response:

Still about too, been in and out of hospital since christmas , so not in work as much. Still lurking as often as I can……. will try to post more Cas – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Seem to be a few lurkers come out the shadows in the last few days , and a few old faces that seem to be mostly lurking these days. Im sure this could be one busy little group , so it would be cool if EVERYONE reading the list posted just one mesage to this thread , just to say u are out there ,  and even better if some stuck about to talk , so come on people don’t be shy …. who is all out there ??? Still hanging around although busy as hell at the moment… Hope everyone had a cool festive season… mine rocked Later Sean Catalyst

Response:

havent had as much time to read and post as i wished i could but you’re right, we could have a kickin thread if we tried. well, i’ll do my part

Still about too, been in and out of hospital since christmas , so not in work as much. Still lurking as often as I can……. will try to post more Cas

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Seem to be a few lurkers come out the shadows in the last few days , and a few old faces that seem to be mostly lurking these days. Im sure this could be one busy little group , so it would be cool if EVERYONE reading the list posted just one mesage to this thread , just to say u are out there ,  and even better if some stuck about to talk , so come on people don’t be shy …. who is all out there ??? Still hanging around although busy as hell at the moment… Hope everyone had a cool festive season… mine rocked Later Sean Catalyst

Response:

Question:

Anybody know any good books on learning all harmonic positions on bass?

http://www.bassplayer.com/z2000/0004/vees.shtml  looks promising. SR – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Like the subject says…  I am just a newbie…  I have 3 things that I need help with… 1.  I drop the tune of my bass from E A D G to D G C F to ease my playing in lower F coz’ my hand is rather short to play the lower neck easily… What’s the cons?  the pros so far for me is easy playing in F.. The cons are looser tension on the strings,which may affect the set-up,and the problem you have with fretting an ‘F’ will remain when you need to play a low E flat. You could try getting a shorter scale bass,like a Fender Mustang for instance if you’re really struggling. 2.  I just learn to play harmonics..  Can you play harmonics in every fret? Coz’ somehow in some frets I could not get the right sound…  How do I determine major scale in harmonics?  Is it the same as if you play the regular notes? Positionally,no.There’s various books out that show where all the harmonics are on the neck and the reason why they occur.Note that harmonics can also be played on a fretted string,so you have a lot of studying to do! 3.  For 5 strings bass, Could I have the "extra" string to be Hi-C instead of Low B?  Thanks..  Thanks…  Thanks You certainly can.I have my 5iver set up exactly as you say. SR Thanks again.

Response:

Like the subject says…  I am just a newbie…  I have 3 things that I need help with… 1.  I drop the tune of my bass from E A D G to D G C F to ease my playing in lower F coz’ my hand is rather short to play the lower neck easily… What’s the cons?  the pros so far for me is easy playing in F.. 2.  I just learn to play harmonics..  Can you play harmonics in every fret? Coz’ somehow in some frets I could not get the right sound…  How do I determine major scale in harmonics?  Is it the same as if you play the regular notes? 3.  For 5 strings bass, Could I have the "extra" string to be Hi-C instead of Low B?  Thanks..  Thanks…  Thanks Thanks again.

Response:

I don’t think yoou need a book. Harmonics are mathematially placed on the neck… 1/2; 1/3… of the length. — Henry "Je ne m’ennuie jamais. ON m’ennuie…" Cardinal de Richelieu – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Anybody know any good books on learning all harmonic positions on bass? Like the subject says…  I am just a newbie…  I have 3 things that I need help with… 1.  I drop the tune of my bass from E A D G to D G C F to ease my playing in lower F coz’ my hand is rather short to play the lower neck easily… What’s the cons?  the pros so far for me is easy playing in F.. The cons are looser tension on the strings,which may affect the set-up,and the problem you have with fretting an ‘F’ will remain when you need to play a low E flat. You could try getting a shorter scale bass,like a Fender Mustang for instance if you’re really struggling. 2.  I just learn to play harmonics..  Can you play harmonics in every fret? Coz’ somehow in some frets I could not get the right sound…  How do I determine major scale in harmonics?  Is it the same as if you play the regular notes? Positionally,no.There’s various books out that show where all the harmonics are on the neck and the reason why they occur.Note that harmonics can also be played on a fretted string,so you have a lot of studying to do! 3.  For 5 strings bass, Could I have the "extra" string to be Hi-C instead of Low B?  Thanks..  Thanks…  Thanks You certainly can.I have my 5iver set up exactly as you say. SR Thanks again.

Response:

Anybody know any good books on learning all harmonic positions on bass?

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Like the subject says…  I am just a newbie…  I have 3 things that I need help with… 1.  I drop the tune of my bass from E A D G to D G C F to ease my playing in lower F coz’ my hand is rather short to play the lower neck easily… What’s the cons?  the pros so far for me is easy playing in F.. The cons are looser tension on the strings,which may affect the set-up,and the problem you have with fretting an ‘F’ will remain when you need to play a low E flat. You could try getting a shorter scale bass,like a Fender Mustang for instance if you’re really struggling. 2.  I just learn to play harmonics..  Can you play harmonics in every fret? Coz’ somehow in some frets I could not get the right sound…  How do I determine major scale in harmonics?  Is it the same as if you play the regular notes? Positionally,no.There’s various books out that show where all the harmonics are on the neck and the reason why they occur.Note that harmonics can also be played on a fretted string,so you have a lot of studying to do! 3.  For 5 strings bass, Could I have the "extra" string to be Hi-C instead of Low B?  Thanks..  Thanks…  Thanks You certainly can.I have my 5iver set up exactly as you say. SR Thanks again.

Response:

Like the subject says…  I am just a newbie…  I have 3 things that I need help with… 1.  I drop the tune of my bass from E A D G to D G C F to ease my playing in lower F coz’ my hand is rather short to play the lower neck easily… What’s the cons?  the pros so far for me is easy playing in F..

The cons are looser tension on the strings,which may affect the set-up,and the problem you have with fretting an ‘F’ will remain when you need to play a low E flat. You could try getting a shorter scale bass,like a Fender Mustang for instance if you’re really struggling. 2.  I just learn to play harmonics..  Can you play harmonics in every fret? Coz’ somehow in some frets I could not get the right sound…  How do I determine major scale in harmonics?  Is it the same as if you play the regular notes?

Positionally,no.There’s various books out that show where all the harmonics are on the neck and the reason why they occur.Note that harmonics can also be played on a fretted string,so you have a lot of studying to do! 3.  For 5 strings bass, Could I have the "extra" string to be Hi-C instead of Low B?  Thanks..  Thanks…  Thanks

You certainly can.I have my 5iver set up exactly as you say. SR – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Thanks again.

Response:

Like the subject says…  I am just a newbie…  I have 3 things that I need help with… 1.  I drop the tune of my bass from E A D G to D G C F to ease my playing in lower F coz’ my hand is rather short to play the lower neck easily…

Have you considered raising your bass height by shortening your strap? What’s the cons?  the pros so far for me is easy playing in F..

The strings will be looser and floppier in drop D tuning making you more susceptible to intonation problems based on how you fret. 2.  I just learn to play harmonics..  Can you play harmonics in     every fret?

They’re there, but their audibility varies widely.   Coz’ somehow in some frets I could not get the right sound…  How do I determine major scale in harmonics?  Is it the same as if you play the regular notes? 3.  For 5 strings bass, Could I have the "extra" string to be Hi-C instead of Low B?  Thanks..  Thanks…  Thanks

Hrmmm.  Kinky.  It’s unusual, but you can certainly do it.  If you have a regular 5-string, if you get a luthier to make you a replacement nut  cut for the high 5 strings of a 6-string bass set, you’d be set.

Don’t be a leach.  Join us and set a spell.  :-) —   /"  ASCII Ribbon Campaign                | Todd H   /                                       | http://www.toddh.net/    X    Against long-winded political rants |   /  in .sigs:  http://learn.to/sign      | "4 lines suffice."

Response:

Not meaning to cast aspersions on your Doctor, but having just had my gall bladder out after a bout of acute pancreatitis, your symptoms gave me major feelings of dejavu. I also had back pain with the abdominal pain andshortness of breath and chest pain. My Gastroenterologist stopped looking for causes of my attacks when he found Upper GI inflammation, even though I was a prime candidate for gall stones: Female, late 30’s – early 40’s, have children, overweight, family history of gall stones. While you may in fact have Crohn’s, like I have reflux and chronic gastritis, there may also be another cause to the attacks. Just some info for thought. Adelle Stavis

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – That sounds similar to the gall bladder attacks that I used to have.  Did they do an ultrasound on your gall bladder? First some background about myself. 2yrs ago I had 2 attacks that were probably a couple weeks apart. These attacks consisted of very painful stomach cramps in the center of my abdomen a little below the sternum, profuse sweating, a strange red rash that appeared on my chest, arms and legs, with tingling in my arms and hands, followed by diarrhea. The attacks lasted about an hour. I thought I had the flu so I went to the doctor after the 2nd attack. He sent me to a GI who then did a colonoscopy. Her findings were terminal ileitis, probable Crohn’s disease, proctits. She put me on a low residue diet and prescribed Asacol 400mg 2 tid. I also take Colace 100mg bid, and Metamucil.  Since I was diagnosed 2 yrs ago, I’ve had about 3-4 other attacks but not as severe. I never really had pain in the area where the doctor found the inflammation. As a rule I don’t have diarrhea unless I am having an attack which is rare. Usually I am constipated which is why I take the Metamucil. I’ve never had a bloody stool or anything like that. I don’t have symptoms of Crohn’s really. Recently I have been going to an Osteopath for a back problem. He believes that Crohn’s is caused by food allergies. He noticed that I have dark circles under my eyes which is a sign of a food allergy. He says most people are usually allergic to wheat/gluten and/or dairy products. My questions: 1. I wonder sometimes if I really have Crohn’s. Is there anyone else that has Crohn’s that doesn’t have major symptoms? 2. Am I lucky? Or does this disease start out mild and then get worse? Reading the surgery stories here freaks me out. Is this what I have to look forward to? 3. Does anyone know more about food allergies being a cause of Crohn’s? If so, please share your information. For the last week I have been on a wheat free, diary free diet to see if I can tell any difference. I’m not sure how I’m supposed to tell as I’m usually symptom free but my doctor suggested that I try it. Thanks! Jeanne

Response:

That sounds similar to the gall bladder attacks that I used to have.  Did they do an ultrasound on your gall bladder? – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – First some background about myself. 2yrs ago I had 2 attacks that were probably a couple weeks apart. These attacks consisted of very painful stomach cramps in the center of my abdomen a little below the sternum, profuse sweating, a strange red rash that appeared on my chest, arms and legs, with tingling in my arms and hands, followed by diarrhea. The attacks lasted about an hour. I thought I had the flu so I went to the doctor after the 2nd attack. He sent me to a GI who then did a colonoscopy. Her findings were terminal ileitis, probable Crohn’s disease, proctits. She put me on a low residue diet and prescribed Asacol 400mg 2 tid. I also take Colace 100mg bid, and Metamucil.  Since I was diagnosed 2 yrs ago, I’ve had about 3-4 other attacks but not as severe. I never really had pain in the area where the doctor found the inflammation. As a rule I don’t have diarrhea unless I am having an attack which is rare. Usually I am constipated which is why I take the Metamucil. I’ve never had a bloody stool or anything like that. I don’t have symptoms of Crohn’s really. Recently I have been going to an Osteopath for a back problem. He believes that Crohn’s is caused by food allergies. He noticed that I have dark circles under my eyes which is a sign of a food allergy. He says most people are usually allergic to wheat/gluten and/or dairy products. My questions: 1. I wonder sometimes if I really have Crohn’s. Is there anyone else that has Crohn’s that doesn’t have major symptoms? 2. Am I lucky? Or does this disease start out mild and then get worse? Reading the surgery stories here freaks me out. Is this what I have to look forward to? 3. Does anyone know more about food allergies being a cause of Crohn’s?  If so, please share your information. For the last week I have been on a wheat free, diary free diet to see if I can tell any difference. I’m not sure how I’m supposed to tell as I’m usually symptom free but my doctor suggested that I try it. Thanks! Jeanne

Response:

1. I wonder sometimes if I really have Crohn’s. Is there anyone else that has Crohn’s that doesn’t have major symptoms?

Yes; the degree and severity of symptoms varies widely amongst patients. 2. Am I lucky? Or does this disease start out mild and then get worse? Reading the surgery stories here freaks me out. Is this what I have to look forward to?

You are lucky. 3. Does anyone know more about food allergies being a cause of Crohn’s?  If so, please share your information. For the last week I have been on a wheat free, diary free diet to see if I can tell any difference. I’m not sure how I’m supposed to tell as I’m usually symptom free but my doctor suggested that I try it.

Food allergies can exacerbate Crohn’s.  Wheat and dairy-free will only work if that is what is causing your problem.  You will know it is working because you will feel better, overall. Chris Owens

Response:

As others can tell you, we all get it differently.  I have CD but I didn’t go to the doctor until I got a driver’s license photo that made me look like a refugee from one of the Nazi prison camps!  I had lost so much weight from the D that I looked gaunt.  Many years previous I had extreme abdominal pains, but never went to a doctor.  Why I don’t know.  Luckily for me I haven’t suffered too much and I have gotten rid of the D for the most part by going on the Specific Carbohydrate Diet.  I also take imuran.  The diet doesn’t work for everyone, but it does help a lot of people.  It is worth trying.  My doctor has never suggested any dietary changes.  I find that really strange.  I’m going to discuss the SCD the next time I see him. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – First some background about myself. 2yrs ago I had 2 attacks that were probably a couple weeks apart. These attacks consisted of very painful stomach cramps in the center of my abdomen a little below the sternum, profuse sweating, a strange red rash that appeared on my chest, arms and legs, with tingling in my arms and hands, followed by diarrhea. The attacks lasted about an hour. I thought I had the flu so I went to the doctor after the 2nd attack. He sent me to a GI who then did a colonoscopy. Her findings were terminal ileitis, probable Crohn’s disease, proctits. She put me on a low residue diet and prescribed Asacol 400mg 2 tid. I also take Colace 100mg bid, and Metamucil.  Since I was diagnosed 2 yrs ago, I’ve had about 3-4 other attacks but not as severe. I never really had pain in the area where the doctor found the inflammation. As a rule I don’t have diarrhea unless I am having an attack which is rare. Usually I am constipated which is why I take the Metamucil. I’ve never had a bloody stool or anything like that. I don’t have symptoms of Crohn’s really. Recently I have been going to an Osteopath for a back problem. He believes that Crohn’s is caused by food allergies. He noticed that I have dark circles under my eyes which is a sign of a food allergy. He says most people are usually allergic to wheat/gluten and/or dairy products. My questions: 1. I wonder sometimes if I really have Crohn’s. Is there anyone else that has Crohn’s that doesn’t have major symptoms? 2. Am I lucky? Or does this disease start out mild and then get worse? Reading the surgery stories here freaks me out. Is this what I have to look forward to? 3. Does anyone know more about food allergies being a cause of Crohn’s?  If so, please share your information. For the last week I have been on a wheat free, diary free diet to see if I can tell any difference. I’m not sure how I’m supposed to tell as I’m usually symptom free but my doctor suggested that I try it. Thanks! Jeanne

–

Response:

My questions: 1. I wonder sometimes if I really have Crohn’s. Is there anyone else that has Crohn’s that doesn’t have major symptoms?

Every case of IBD is different: although there are some common symptoms, different people have different symptoms — and some do not appear to have major symptoms. 2. Am I lucky? Or does this disease start out mild and then get worse? Reading the surgery stories here freaks me out. Is this what I have to look forward to?

I wouldn’t call you lucky if you do have CD. But the fact is, the course of the disease is horribly unpredictable. Some people have only mild problems throughout their life. Others have a horrible time from the beginning when no one can figure out what their symptoms mean. It does seem that people who start out with only mild problems tend to have a mild course, but there’s no guarentee. Also you need to keep in mind that the group here is made up of two groups for the most part — people who are new to the disease and need info and support, and those of us who have had really severe cases of IBD with constant symptoms and multiple surgeries and need a lot of support. The people who have mild problems don’t tend to stay here very long, but they are out there too. 3. Does anyone know more about food allergies being a cause of Crohn’s?  If so, please share your information. For the last week I have been on a wheat free, diary free diet to see if I can tell any difference. I’m not sure how I’m supposed to tell as I’m usually symptom free but my doctor suggested that I try it.

Don’t we all wish! The fact is, we just don’t know what causes Crohn’s Disease or Ulcerative Colitis, but if it were simply a matter of food allergies, we would all have better treatment and a lot less problems. This is not to say that some food intolerances cannot cause problems — I have difficulty with fats that can cause my symptoms to go crazy. Others have dairy intolerances or even gluten intolerances. And there is the case of Celiac Disease, an inability to digest wheat gluten that can cause symptoms similar to CD or UC but DOES NOT cause CD or UC! Some people with UC and CD have had luck following a gluten free diet and I suspect that this is just because their systems cannot handle the gluten just like mine cannot handle a lot of fat. For more info, check out the FAQ’s for this group at http://www.geocities.com/HotSprings/Falls/3298/ steve preferred e-mail address: without the "SPAM," of course! HOME: http://www.digdat.com/~psyche0/index.html ASCC: http://www.geocities.com/HotSprings/Falls/3298/

Response:

First some background about myself. 2yrs ago I had 2 attacks that were probably a couple weeks apart. These attacks consisted of very painful stomach cramps in the center of my abdomen a little below the sternum, profuse sweating, a strange red rash that appeared on my chest, arms and legs, with tingling in my arms and hands, followed by diarrhea. The attacks lasted about an hour. I thought I had the flu so I went to the doctor after the 2nd attack. He sent me to a GI who then did a colonoscopy. Her findings were terminal ileitis, probable Crohn’s disease, proctits. She put me on a low residue diet and prescribed Asacol 400mg 2 tid. I also take Colace 100mg bid, and Metamucil.  Since I was diagnosed 2 yrs ago, I’ve had about 3-4 other attacks but not as severe. I never really had pain in the area where the doctor found the inflammation. As a rule I don’t have diarrhea unless I am having an attack which is rare. Usually I am constipated which is why I take the Metamucil. I’ve never had a bloody stool or anything like that. I don’t have symptoms of Crohn’s really. Recently I have been going to an Osteopath for a back problem. He believes that Crohn’s is caused by food allergies. He noticed that I have dark circles under my eyes which is a sign of a food allergy. He says most people are usually allergic to wheat/gluten and/or dairy products. My questions: 1. I wonder sometimes if I really have Crohn’s. Is there anyone else that has Crohn’s that doesn’t have major symptoms? 2. Am I lucky? Or does this disease start out mild and then get worse? Reading the surgery stories here freaks me out. Is this what I have to look forward to? 3. Does anyone know more about food allergies being a cause of Crohn’s?  If so, please share your information. For the last week I have been on a wheat free, diary free diet to see if I can tell any difference. I’m not sure how I’m supposed to tell as I’m usually symptom free but my doctor suggested that I try it. Thanks! Jeanne

Response:

pat i know nothing much about cipro –been on it once.. i have been on asacol since december ( i was dx’d in 1978 and was on other stuff for years) i have not gained weight because of the asacol..but i have felt better…and therefore hungrier… dipentum used to kill my appetite…asacol does not have any effect… that might be the problem..or is i t a good thing for you to gain weight..?? i am needing to lose some at this point… welcome to the group.by the way… my name is annie and i live in boston annie

Response:

Questions for all you people who have had CD for years.  I was just diagnosed in January.  My doctor put me on Asacol and at about the same time my urologist put me on Cipro for a different ailment.  I thought the Asacol had worked wonders because the diarrhea went away and the high output from my colostomy was drastically reduced.  I am now done taking the Cipro and after being off of it for 3 days, here comes the diarrhea and high output again. Was it the Cipro that got rid of the diarrhea and high output or was it just a coincidence? And now what do you guys think the doctor will (should) put me on?  Does Asacol make you gain weight?  I’ve gained 7 lbs. in 1 1/2 months! My husband says he can’t see it but I know I can see it especially in my face.  Thanks for any info and advice.  ~~~~ Pat

Response:

hi pat-i am not much of a veteran i have only been diagnosed 4 years now, but i just recently had to take cipro for flu and my gastro doctor said it would probably help crohns flare up and did slightly-i am also presently taking asacol and have been for almost 3 years-i had to have surgery in oct 97 and have been left on asacol as a preventive but however i only stayed in remission for approx 1 year before having flareup-i have no weight gain side effects from asacol-prednisone is my nightmare drug-hope this helps mspakrbakr linda

Response:

It probably was the Cipro, try going on it again to see if your symptoms improve again and you will be sure.  Many people with CD respond well to certain antibiotics, and Cipro and Flagyl in particular.  The current thinking is that we are having an inappropriate autoimmune response to the normal gut bacteria.  The other possibility is that there is a specific, not normal bacteria we are reacting to, and an increasing amount of research is being done in that area. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Questions for all you people who have had CD for years.  I was just diagnosed in January.  My doctor put me on Asacol and at about the same time my urologist put me on Cipro for a different ailment.  I thought the Asacol had worked wonders because the diarrhea went away and the high output from my colostomy was drastically reduced.  I am now done taking the Cipro and after being off of it for 3 days, here comes the diarrhea and high output again. Was it the Cipro that got rid of the diarrhea and high output or was it just a coincidence? And now what do you guys think the doctor will (should) put me on?  Does Asacol make you gain weight?      I’ve gained 7 lbs. in 1 1/2 months! My husband says he can’t see it but I know I can see it especially in my face.  Thanks for any info and advice.      ~~~~ Pat

Response:

Question:

Thank you Ceresse. Whenever in doubt make sure specimens are sent to a pathologist experienced in differentiating between the two. — Pearl L

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Personally, I thought this was one of the best delineation of the two diseases I have ever seen concisely stated.  Certainly, there are personal differences, and definitions appear to waver among some of these posts. But, Pearlee, I wanted to thank you.  You stated this more clearly than any of my half-dozen doctors.   Perhaps I’m just showing my ignorance.  If so, please excuse it.  I merely want to express my appreciation for what I see as an enlightening post.  Ceresse Everyone has provided a partial answer. I will attempt to pull it altogether.I’m sure I’ll forget something but I’ll do my best. Crohn’s disease can 1) affect any or portions of the GI tract from the mouth to the anus 2) it appears in patched looking similar to cobblestones, 3) the ulcerations (apthus ulcers) effect all layers of the bowel wall, thus it can perforate, 4)as ulcers form and heal scar tissue forms narrowing the lumen or inner aspects of the bowel making it difficult for digesting food (chyme) to pass through eventually 5)causing a stricture leading to a blockage, 6)once there is a blockage caused by scar tissue surgery is necessary, 7)if a narrowing is caused by inflammation there is the possibility that with medication and bowel rest, food can pass. as the inner aspects of the bowel become ulcerated or scarred those areas cannot absorb nutrients thus compromising nutrition, 9)Crohn’s affecting only the colon is called Crohn’s colitis or granulomatous colitis. 10)If one only has Crohn’s of the colon and only the colon and the colon is removed, there is only a 10% chance of disease appearing in the upper aspects of the GI tract. If a period of 10 years goes by without an disease process, you’re pretty well assured that you are cured. 11)Crohn’s disease has several extraintestinal manifestations a. iritis – inflammation of the eye, b. arthralgias – inflammation of the joints, c. fistulas – unnatural tube like connections between the bowel and another part of the body, i.e. bladder, skin, etc. d.skin conditions -erythemia nordosum Ulcerative colitis 1) effects only the colon, 2)only causes ulcerations on the inner lining of the colon or mucosa, 3)the ulcerations are continous unlike in Crohn’s were there are skipped areas,however this does not mean that it is continous from the anus to the cecum it only means that if it effects the trasnverse colon the diseased area covers the area and dosen’t look like cobblestone. UC can only effect the rectum – called proctitus, or just the transverse colon or the entire colon, 4)toxic megacolon is a complication of UC – the colon becomes severely inflammed, enlarges and can possibly burst. SUrgery is indicated immediately. Extraintestinal manifestations a. pyoderma gangrenosum,a skin condition b. Some UC patients develop a condition called sclerosing cholangitous.5) UC patients are at risk of cancer of the colon after several years and annual colonoscopies with biopsies are necessary.6) Nutritionally UC, since it is only of the colon, results in potassium and sodium depletion. In both UC and CD the inflammed bowel wall "weeps" losing protein and other nutritients.5) Once the colon is removed you are considered cured, however I have seen people who have had their colon removed still have skin problems, CA of the liver. These diseases are systemic and not confined to the primary organ. Surgically there are more options for UC patients – i.e. ileo-anal anastomosis as well as the continent ileostomy simply because the portion of the small intestine used to fashion the pouch in which the stool will be stored is not at risk of disease. In CD, since disease can continue in the previously unaffected tissue, these options are unavailable. Oftentimes with colonic disease it is difficult to differentiate between the two initially. Only with multiple biopsies read by an experienced pathologist can an accurate diagnosis be made. This is why many patients get confused and say they have both – you cannot have both. Having Crohn’s colitis does not mean you have both – it means you have Crohn’s disease in the colon.Additionally one does not change into the other. When one diagnosis is made and later ithe diagnosis is changed it only means that the initial diagnosis was incorrect. There are many additional complications of both. They are treated similarly. Nutritional support and bowel rest is important in both and I feel that in time treatments that are now used in CD will prove useful in UC. I know I have not covered everything but I hope I’ve been able to pull everything together – somewhat.

Response:

Ulcerative colitis 1) effects only the colon, 2)only causes ulcerations on the inner lining of the colon or mucosa, 3)the ulcerations are continous unlike in Crohn’s were there are skipped areas,however this does not mean that it is continous from the anus to the cecum it only means that if it effects the trasnverse colon the diseased area covers the area and dosen’t look like cobblestone. UC can only effect the rectum – called proctitus, or just the transverse colon or the entire colon, Several corrections: — Cobblestoning is caused by scar tissue forming both longitudinally and latitudinally. It is a different phenomenon than skip lesions. –There are now reports (about 25-30) of skip lesions occurring in UC.

Can you provide some cites for those reports of skip lesions in UC? It’s very important to me as drs. have had problems classifying my IBD, and it would be comforting to me if I have to have my colon out to know this can occur.  How do drs. know it’s UC and not CD in these cases? BTW, I think you’re mistaken about the cobblestoning.  In the Angry Gut, Dr. W. Grant Thompson writes "Crohn’s colitis should be suspected …when there are large irregular ulcers separated by relatively unaffected mucosa. In advanced disease, the submucosal swelling and deep ulcers produce the characteristic cobblestone effect."  Chapter 12-Crohn’s Disease-Diagnosis.  That makes it sound like cobblestoning is an advanced form of skip lesions.

Response:

Personally, I thought this was one of the best delineation of the two diseases I have ever seen concisely stated.  Certainly, there are personal differences, and definitions appear to waver among some of these posts. But, Pearlee, I wanted to thank you.  You stated this more clearly than any of my half-dozen doctors.   Perhaps I’m just showing my ignorance.  If so, please excuse it.  I merely want to express my appreciation for what I see as an enlightening post.  Ceresse

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Everyone has provided a partial answer. I will attempt to pull it altogether.I’m sure I’ll forget something but I’ll do my best. Crohn’s disease can 1) affect any or portions of the GI tract from the mouth to the anus 2) it appears in patched looking similar to cobblestones, 3) the ulcerations (apthus ulcers) effect all layers of the bowel wall, thus it can perforate, 4)as ulcers form and heal scar tissue forms narrowing the lumen or inner aspects of the bowel making it difficult for digesting food (chyme) to pass through eventually 5)causing a stricture leading to a blockage, 6)once there is a blockage caused by scar tissue surgery is necessary, 7)if a narrowing is caused by inflammation there is the possibility that with medication and bowel rest, food can pass. as the inner aspects of the bowel become ulcerated or scarred those areas cannot absorb nutrients thus compromising nutrition, 9)Crohn’s affecting only the colon is called Crohn’s colitis or granulomatous colitis. 10)If one only has Crohn’s of the colon and only the colon and the colon is removed, there is only a 10% chance of disease appearing in the upper aspects of the GI tract. If a period of 10 years goes by without an disease process, you’re pretty well assured that you are cured. 11)Crohn’s disease has several extraintestinal manifestations a. iritis – inflammation of the eye, b. arthralgias – inflammation of the joints, c. fistulas – unnatural tube like connections between the bowel and another part of the body, i.e. bladder, skin, etc. d.skin conditions -erythemia nordosum Ulcerative colitis 1) effects only the colon, 2)only causes ulcerations on the inner lining of the colon or mucosa, 3)the ulcerations are continous unlike in Crohn’s were there are skipped areas,however this does not mean that it is continous from the anus to the cecum it only means that if it effects the trasnverse colon the diseased area covers the area and dosen’t look like cobblestone. UC can only effect the rectum – called proctitus, or just the transverse colon or the entire colon, 4)toxic megacolon is a complication of UC – the colon becomes severely inflammed, enlarges and can possibly burst. SUrgery is indicated immediately. Extraintestinal manifestations a. pyoderma gangrenosum,a skin condition b. Some UC patients develop a condition called sclerosing cholangitous.5) UC patients are at risk of cancer of the colon after several years and annual colonoscopies with biopsies are necessary.6) Nutritionally UC, since it is only of the colon, results in potassium and sodium depletion. In both UC and CD the inflammed bowel wall "weeps" losing protein and other nutritients.5) Once the colon is removed you are considered cured, however I have seen people who have had their colon removed still have skin problems, CA of the liver. These diseases are systemic and not confined to the primary organ. Surgically there are more options for UC patients – i.e. ileo-anal anastomosis as well as the continent ileostomy simply because the portion of the small intestine used to fashion the pouch in which the stool will be stored is not at risk of disease. In CD, since disease can continue in the previously unaffected tissue, these options are unavailable. Oftentimes with colonic disease it is difficult to differentiate between the two initially. Only with multiple biopsies read by an experienced pathologist can an accurate diagnosis be made. This is why many patients get confused and say they have both – you cannot have both. Having Crohn’s colitis does not mean you have both – it means you have Crohn’s disease in the colon.Additionally one does not change into the other. When one diagnosis is made and later ithe diagnosis is changed it only means that the initial diagnosis was incorrect. There are many additional complications of both. They are treated similarly. Nutritional support and bowel rest is important in both and I feel that in time treatments that are now used in CD will prove useful in UC. I know I have not covered everything but I hope I’ve been able to pull everything together – somewhat.

Response:

2nd batch of corrections to Pearl’s post: toxic megacolon is a complication of UC – Toxic megacolon can occur in Crohn’s colitis too. Extraintestinal manifestations a. pyoderma gangrenosum,a skin condition

Can occur in Crohn’s too. UC patients are at risk of cancer of the colon after several years and annual colonoscopies with biopsies are necessary.

True of Crohn’s colitis too, especially pancolitis. Nutritional support and bowel rest is important in both Bowel rest usually does not work for UC. From "Management of Severe Ulcerative Colitis" (in Advanced Therapy of Inflammatory Bowel Disease, ed. by T. Bayless and S. Hanauer): "Although bowel rest is of value in Crohn’s colitis, its benefit in UC has not been proven. Two controlled trials could not show any difference in colectomy rate between patients on a normal hospital diet and those on bowel rest." I feel that in time treatments that are now used in CD will prove useful in UC.

They already are. Pentasa, Asacol, sulfasalazine, steroids (systemic and topical), Imuran, 6-mp, and cyclosporine have all been used in both diseases for years now.

Response:

Sorry NA but I need to correct you on Crohn’s, at least what occurred with me.  See comments below.

Ulcerative colitis 1) effects only the colon, 2)only causes ulcerations on the inner lining of the colon or mucosa, 3)the ulcerations are continous unlike in Crohn’s were there are skipped areas,however this does not mean that it is continous from the anus to the cecum it only means that if it effects the trasnverse colon the diseased area covers the area and dosen’t look like cobblestone. UC can only effect the rectum – called proctitus, or just the transverse colon or the entire colon, Several corrections: — Cobblestoning is caused by scar tissue forming both longitudinally and latitudinally. It is a different phenomenon than skip lesions.

I had cobblestoning with no scar tissue. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – –There are now reports (about 25-30) of skip lesions occurring in UC. — UC always affects the rectum. It can also extend proximally: when it extends into the sigmoid colon, it’s called proctosigmoiditis. The next area is the rest of the descending colon. Disease affecting that is called "right-sided colitis." There are NOT cases where "just the transverse colon" is affected in UC. If the transverse colon is affected in UC, then so is the descending colon and the rectum. Some UC patients develop a condition called sclerosing cholangitous. So do CD patients. (About 1 percent). In both UC and CD the inflammed bowel wall "weeps" losing protein and other nutritients.

This too was told to me by my surgeon and GI. Have any physicians ever made this claim in writing? Please cite a source.

No I didn’t get it in writing. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Only with multiple biopsies read by an experienced pathologist can an accurate diagnosis be made. Not true. Even with extensive pathology studies, about 6-11 percent of cases are classified as "indeterminate." (About half of all Crohn’s biopsies show no granulomas, and granulomas aren’t specific for Crohn’s anyway.)

Response:

Ulcerative colitis 1) effects only the colon, 2)only causes ulcerations on the inner lining of the colon or mucosa, 3)the ulcerations are continous unlike in Crohn’s were there are skipped areas,however this does not mean that it is continous from the anus to the cecum it only means that if it effects the trasnverse colon the diseased area covers the area and dosen’t look like cobblestone. UC can only effect the rectum – called proctitus, or just the transverse colon or the entire colon,

Several corrections: — Cobblestoning is caused by scar tissue forming both longitudinally and latitudinally. It is a different phenomenon than skip lesions. –There are now reports (about 25-30) of skip lesions occurring in UC. — UC always affects the rectum. It can also extend proximally: when it extends into the sigmoid colon, it’s called proctosigmoiditis. The next area is the rest of the descending colon. Disease affecting that is called "right-sided colitis." There are NOT cases where "just the transverse colon" is affected in UC. If the transverse colon is affected in UC, then so is the descending colon and the rectum. Some UC patients develop a condition called sclerosing cholangitous.

So do CD patients. (About 1 percent). In both UC and CD the inflammed bowel wall "weeps" losing protein and other nutritients.

Have any physicians ever made this claim in writing? Please cite a source. Only with multiple biopsies read by an experienced pathologist can an accurate diagnosis be made.

Not true. Even with extensive pathology studies, about 6-11 percent of cases are classified as "indeterminate." (About half of all Crohn’s biopsies show no granulomas, and granulomas aren’t specific for Crohn’s anyway.)

Response:

Everyone has provided a partial answer. I will attempt to pull it altogether.I’m sure I’ll forget something but I’ll do my best. Crohn’s disease can 1) affect any or portions of the GI tract from the mouth to the anus 2) it appears in patched looking similar to cobblestones, 3) the ulcerations (apthus ulcers) effect all layers of the bowel wall, thus it can perforate, 4)as ulcers form and heal scar tissue forms narrowing the lumen or inner aspects of the bowel making it difficult for digesting food (chyme) to pass through eventually 5)causing a stricture leading to a blockage, 6)once there is a blockage caused by scar tissue surgery is necessary, 7)if a narrowing is caused by inflammation there is the possibility that with medication and bowel rest, food can pass. as the inner aspects of the bowel become ulcerated or scarred those areas cannot absorb nutrients thus compromising nutrition, 9)Crohn’s affecting only the colon is called Crohn’s colitis or granulomatous colitis. 10)If one only has Crohn’s of the colon and only the colon and the colon is removed, there is only a 10% chance of disease appearing in the upper aspects of the GI tract. If a period of 10 years goes by without an disease process, you’re pretty well assured that you are cured. 11)Crohn’s disease has several extraintestinal manifestations a. iritis – inflammation of the eye, b. arthralgias – inflammation of the joints, c. fistulas – unnatural tube like connections between the bowel and another part of the body, i.e. bladder, skin, etc. d.skin conditions -erythemia nordosum Ulcerative colitis 1) effects only the colon, 2)only causes ulcerations on the inner lining of the colon or mucosa, 3)the ulcerations are continous unlike in Crohn’s were there are skipped areas,however this does not mean that it is continous from the anus to the cecum it only means that if it effects the trasnverse colon the diseased area covers the area and dosen’t look like cobblestone. UC can only effect the rectum – called proctitus, or just the transverse colon or the entire colon, 4)toxic megacolon is a complication of UC – the colon becomes severely inflammed, enlarges and can possibly burst. SUrgery is indicated immediately. Extraintestinal manifestations a. pyoderma gangrenosum,a skin condition b. Some UC patients develop a condition called sclerosing cholangitous.5) UC patients are at risk of cancer of the colon after several years and annual colonoscopies with biopsies are necessary.6) Nutritionally UC, since it is only of the colon, results in potassium and sodium depletion. In both UC and CD the inflammed bowel wall "weeps" losing protein and other nutritients.5) Once the colon is removed you are considered cured, however I have seen people who have had their colon removed still have skin problems, CA of the liver. These diseases are systemic and not confined to the primary organ. Surgically there are more options for UC patients – i.e. ileo-anal anastomosis as well as the continent ileostomy simply because the portion of the small intestine used to fashion the pouch in which the stool will be stored is not at risk of disease. In CD, since disease can continue in the previously unaffected tissue, these options are unavailable. Oftentimes with colonic disease it is difficult to differentiate between the two initially. Only with multiple biopsies read by an experienced pathologist can an accurate diagnosis be made. This is why many patients get confused and say they have both – you cannot have both. Having Crohn’s colitis does not mean you have both – it means you have Crohn’s disease in the colon.Additionally one does not change into the other. When one diagnosis is made and later ithe diagnosis is changed it only means that the initial diagnosis was incorrect. There are many additional complications of both. They are treated similarly. Nutritional support and bowel rest is important in both and I feel that in time treatments that are now used in CD will prove useful in UC. I know I have not covered everything but I hope I’ve been able to pull everything together – somewhat.

Response:

thought this might be helpful it is from http://www.healingwell.com/library/ibd/faq1.htm 1.1.1 Q: What is ulcerative colitis? Ulcerative colitis (UC) is an inflammatory disease of the large intestine, commonly called the colon. UC causes inflammation and ulceration of the inner lining of the colon and rectum. This inner lining is called the mucosa. Crohn’s disease (CD) causes inflammation that extends into the deeper layers of the intestinal wall. The inflammation of UC is usually most severe in the rectal area with severity diminishing (at a rate that varies from patient to patient) toward the cecum, where the large and small intestine join. Significant deviations from this pattern may be a clue to the physician to suspect CD rather than UC. Such deviations may include either "skip areas" and/or "sparing of the rectum". Skip areas are patches of healthy tissue separating segments of diseased tissue. They are often seen in CD, but rarely in UC. Inflammation of the rectum is called proctitis. Inflammation of the sigmoid colon (located just above the rectum) is called sigmoiditis. Inflammation involving the entire colon is termed pan-colitis. The inflammation causes the colon to empty frequently resulting in diarrhea. As the lining of the colon is destroyed ulcers form releasing mucus, pus and blood. UC is relatively common in the western world and at least 250,000 in the United States alone have the disease. It occurs most frequently in people ages 15 to 30 although children and older people occasionally develop the disease. About 50% of patients are free of symptoms at any given time but the vast majority suffer at least one relapse in any 10 year period. Drug treatment is effective for about 70-80% of patients; surgery becomes necessary in the remaining 20-30%. 1.1.2 Q: What is Crohn’s disease? Crohn’s disease (CD) is an inflammatory process that can affect any portion of the digestive tract, but is most commonly seen (roughly half of all cases) in the last part of the small intestine otherwise called the terminal ileum and cecum. Altogether this area is also known as the ileocecal region. Other cases may affect one or more of: the colon only, the small bowel only (duodenum, jejunum and/or ileum), the anus, stomach or esophagus. In contrast with UC, CD usually doesn’t affect the rectum, but frequently affects the anus instead.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I was initially diagnosed as uc, but after four years they are now saying in might be crohns! – whats the difference? ta mj

Response:

ta mj There are a couple differences between CD & UC. 1) CD can affect any part of the digestive system from the anus to the mouth. UC only affects the large intestine (colon). 2) With UC the inflammation is continious beginning from the rectum inward. With CD the inflammation can be in patches, and the area affected can change. 3) With UC the inflamation only affects the surface of the colon. With CD the inflamation often involves the entire thickness of the wall of the intestine. (There may be other differences as well.) Having said that, if a person happens to have crohn’s disease which happens to only affect the colon, and happens to inflame a continuous area of the colon; then there is difficulty determining wheather that is CD or UC. (CD which only affects the colon is called ‘Crohn’s Colitis.’) 4) UC can be cured with the removal of the colon. There is no cure for CD. While surgery for CD may be necessary sometimes because of strictures (narrowing of the small intestine), sometimes the CD will move to another area of the digestive tract. http://www.ccfa.org/ (click on ‘Medical Central’ to get to the ‘Library’ for more information.) Howard UC since 1995 – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I was initially diagnosed as uc, but after four years they are now saying in might be crohns! – whats the difference? ta mj

Response:

Sounds good to me.  Everyone have a healthy good night.  UM MOM Susan

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I don’t know what all the differences are but, what I do know is CD can affect you any where from mouth to anus.  But, UC is only in the large intestine.  I hope I explained that right.  But, if not I’m sure someone will let me know.  <G — Take Care, Sherry  :o) I was initially diagnosed as uc, but after four years they are now saying in might be crohns! – whats the difference? ta mj

Response:

I don’t know what all the differences are but, what I do know is CD can affect you any where from mouth to anus.  But, UC is only in the large intestine.  I hope I explained that right.  But, if not I’m sure someone will let me know.  <G — Take Care, Sherry  :o)

I was initially diagnosed as uc, but after four years they are now saying in might be crohns! – whats the difference? ta mj

Response:

I was initially diagnosed as uc, but after four years they are now saying in might be crohns! – whats the difference? ta mj

Response:

Crohn’s has a cobble look. I don’t know if there are any other differences but I am sure someone here can help.  UM MOM Susan

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I was initially diagnosed as uc, but after four years they are now saying in might be crohns! – whats the difference? ta mj

Response:

Question:

Well, ineffective is indeed more correct than weak. I’m not politically correct. Let’s see. Differently abled would mean for example that we are designed to handle mars’ bugs, or maybe we’ll be just fine on alpha centauri…. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I think ineffective is a better word than weak…  Wait my PC brain just kicked in…  My immune system is differntly abled..  yeah that’s it.. that’s the ticket.. Mike Ahhh, but that’s not necessarily your immune system being weak but rather the MAP (or whatever) being clever and difficult! I still don’t think it’s the same thing. How can a weak immune system wreak such havoc on the gut for many years? Even if it’s the immune system only causing damage to the gut by accident? A weak immune system would NOT cause collateral damage or if it did it wouldn’t last too long or even be able to cause that much damage. Besides we don’t know that anybody’s immune system can get rid of MAP or another as yet unkown pathogen without giving them an IBD. If we knew that that occured then we could say maybe that IBD sufferers had an INEFFECTIVE immune system but as of now, with our level of knowledge I don’t even think we could say that! Debs I don’t believe Crohn is your immune system attacking your gut, but your immune system not being able to reach bacteriae enclosed in the cells of the lining of the gut. Some research seem to go that way, especially with the MAP thing. Noella All opinions expressed are mine unless otherwise noted. Copyright

Question:

But viruses divide and multiply … right? Damn I wish I had paid more attention in biology … those many moons ago. Mike

Mike, The simple explanation is that a virus is a molecule that can reproduce but is not a living organism. Bacteria are living single-cell entities. Bacteria have DNA; viruses do not. In terms of infection a virus invades a cell and becomes part of it. The immune system then (usually) detects the altered cells and destroys them. Bacteria are actual cells that compete with the normal body cells for nutrients. An active immune system also identifies them as not belonging and in most cases destroys them. Larry — Larry Finch N 40

Question:

Hi and hello there , This is great news, please allow me to post this on my site, you can review it at www.bcristello.com/elsibeth this is a gold mine and i would like to see how it is recieved. Please let me know if you approve of my efforts, and if they are maintaning, as i wish, objectivity in displayment. Thank you and God Bless, Elsi and Bobby

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -X-Last-Updated: 1999/10/12 Newsgroups: alt.support.crohns-colitis,alt.answers,news.answers Followup-To: alt.support.crohns-colitis Distribution: world Organization: none Archive-name: medicine/crohns-colitis-faq/part1 Posting-frequency: every two weeks Last-modified: 1999/10/12 Version: 3.1 URL: http://ibdfaq.freeshell.org Inflammatory Bowel Disease Frequently Asked Questions Version 3.1 This document was last modified on 10/12/1999 Part 1 of 2 Introduction: What is Alt.support.crohns-colitis? Alt.support.crohns-colitis was created in early 1994 as a forum where people suffering from ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s Disease, and irritable bowel syndrome can share their everyday struggles with these illnesses, as well as discuss medicines, treatments, surgery, diet, health care providers, related illnesses, and anything else anyone can think of that relates to these diseases.  In other words, this is the online equivalent of a support group, which means that no question is stupid and no condition embarrassing here.  It also means we’re all here to help each other out, so please be nice, be polite, and no flaming. Discussions of all types of medicine- conventional and alternative, Western and Eastern, your Aunt Harriet’s home remedies, whatever- are welcome here; however, any person discussing a potential remedy which he or she also sells must explicitly begin the "Subject" header of their post with the word "AD" or "ADVERTISEMENT" in all caps, regardless of whether or not they profit from such sales.  Spamming is expressly forbidden as violating the rules of netiquette as well as those of this newsgroup.  Finally, please keep in mind that no one knows what causes these illnesses, no one’s come up with a cure, and we need all the help we can get. If you have comments, suggestions, or corrections concerning the content Please do not send me email asking for medical advice, help with your news reader (ask your system administrator) or to subscribe to a mailing list (I have no control over the usenet group or the IBDLIST mailing list) or anything unrelated to the content of this FAQ.  Sorry. Copyright Notice: Copyright 1995-1999 by Christopher Holmes, Kevin Horgan M.D., and Michael Bloom.  All rights reserved.  See the end of this document for information on permission to use, copy and distribute. Disclaimer: This FAQ is provided by the authors "as is".  See end of document for complete disclaimer. Where to get this FAQ: This FAQ is posted twice a month to the alt.support.crohns-colitis, alt.answers, and news.answers newsgroups. Web: http://ibdfaq.freeshell.org ftp: rtfm.mit.edu and its mirrors Note that there are three other FAQ’s, the Information Resources FAQ, the IBS FAQ and the Collagenous Colitis FAQ The Information Resources FAQ is also posted to alt.support.crohns-colitis twice a month and describes informational resources on IBD and IBS available either on the internet or elsewhere.  It includes address and phone numbers of support organizations such as the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation of America (CCFA) and the United Ostomy Association (UOA), book titles and reviews, and WWW sites. The IBS FAQ deals with Irritable Bowel Syndrome, which has symptoms that can be similar to those of UC or CD.  The Collagenous Colitis FAQ discusses a less typical form of IBD which also shares many of the symptoms of UC. Current versions of all these FAQs can be found at Bill Robertson’s website, URL http://qurlyjoe.bu.edu/cduchome.html. Commonly-used abbreviations in this FAQ and on alt.support.crohns-colitis (a.s.c.-c): IBD     inflammatory bowel disease- includes Crohn’s Disease and            ulcerative colitis IBS     irritable bowel syndrome UC      ulcerative colitis CD      Crohn’s Disease CCFA    the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation of America CCFC    Canadian Foundation for Ileitis and Colitis UOA     the United Ostomy Association NSAID   Non-steroidal, anti-inflammatory drug TPN     Total parenteral nutrition GI      Gastro-intestinal, i.e., pertaining to your digestive system 1.0 Digestive system primer 1.1 Q: What is Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)? 1.1.1 Q: What is ulcerative colitis (UC)? 1.1.2 Q: What is Crohn’s disease (CD)? 1.1.3 Q: What is ileitis? 1.1.4 Q: What is Crohn’s colitis? 1.1.5 Q: What is ulcerative proctitis? 1.1.6 Q: What is Granulomatous colitis? 1.1.7 Q: What is Irritable Bowel Syndrome? 1.2 Q: What symptoms are experienced by IBD patients? 1.2.1 Q: What are extra-intestinal manifestations of these diseases? 1.2.2 Q: What other complications can occur? 1.2.3 Q: What is toxic megacolon? 1.2.4 Q: What are fistulas and abscesses? 1.2.5 Q: What are strictures? 1.2.6 Q: What is the cancer risk in IBD patients? 1.2.6.1 Q: Are there other factors predisposing to the development of colon cancer? 1.2.6.2 Q: Are there ways to reduce the risk of developing colon cancer? 1.3 Q: What are the causes of Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis? 1.4 Q: Could IBD be an inherited condition? 1.5 Q: Who gets these diseases? 1.6 Q: Are there any factors that predispose to the development of UC and/or CD? 1.7 Q:  Are there any factors that protect against the development of UC and/or CD? 1.8 Q: How is ulcerative colitis diagnosed? 1.8.1 Q: What are flexible sigmoidoscopy and colonoscopy? 1.9 Q: How is Crohn’s disease diagnosed? 2.1 Q: What Drug therapies are used to treat IBD? 2.1.1 Q: What are 5-ASA Drugs? 2.1.1.1 Q: What is Azulfidine? 2.1.1.2 Q: What is Dipentum? 2.1.1.3 Q: What is Asacol? 2.1.1.4 Q: What is Salofalk? 2.1.1.5 Q: What is Pentasa? 2.1.1.6 Q: What is Balsalazide? 2.1.1.7 Q: What is Rowasa? 2.1.2 What is Metronidazole? 2.1.3 Q: What is Ciprofloxacin? 2.1.4 Q: What is Clarithromycin (Biaxin)? 2.1.5 Q: What are adrenal corticosteroids (steroids), and when and why are they used? 2.1.5.1 Q: What are the side effects from taking steroids? 2.1.5.2 Q: What is meant by "Alternate Day Therapy"? 2.1.5.3 What is Budesonide? 2.1.5.4 What is ACTH? 2.1.5.5 Q: What do steroids do to bones? 2.1.5.6 Q:  What should be done to minimize the damage done by steroids to bones when I am being treated for IBD? 2.1.6 Q: What are immunosuppressive drugs and when are they used? 2.1.6.1 Q: What are  Azathioprine and 6-MP? 2.1.6.2 Q: What is Methotrexate? 2.1.6.3 Q: What is Cyclosporine? 2.2 Q: Are any other drugs used to treat IBD? 2.2.1 Q: Are nicotine patches ever used to treat UC? 2.2.2  Q: What about antibodies against TNF (Tumor Necrosis Factor)? 2.2.2.1 Q: What is Tumor Necrosis Factor or TNF? 2.2.2.2 Q: Does TNF serve any useful function? 2.2.2.3 Q: Is TNF important in IBD? just CD? what about UC? 2.2.2.4 Q: What is this new anti-TNF treatment? 2.2.2.5 Q: How does the anti-TNF treatment work? 2.2.2.6 Q: Are there problems with the treatment? 2.2.2.7 Q: What sort of patients are suitable candidates for treatment with       anti-TNF antibody? 2.2.2.8 Q: What are the alternatives available at present? 2.2.3 Q: What about Interleukin-10 (IL-10) therapy for CD? 2.2.4 Q: What about fish oil for therapy? 2.3 Q: Can different drugs be used together to treat IBD? 2.4  Q:  Will I need to keep taking medications permanently? 3.1 Q: Drugs aren’t working, what can surgery do for my UC? 3.1.1 Q: What’s an ileostomy? 3.1.2 Q: What’s a Continent Ileostomy? 3.1.3 Q: What’s an Ileoanal Anastomosis, or Ileoanal Pull-Through? 3.2.4 Q: What can go wrong with these surgeries? 3.2 Q: Are there surgical treatments for Crohn’s? 3.2.1 Q: What’s a resection? 3.2.2 Q: After surgery for CD can anything be done to prevent it recurring again? 4.1 Q: What role does diet play in IBD? 4.1.1 Q: What is an elemental or astronaut diet? 4.1.2 Q: What is total parenteral nutrition? 4.1.3 Q: What is lactose intolerance? 4.2.3.1Q: So what can I do about lactose intolerance? 4.1.3.1 Q: So what can I do about lactose intolerance? 5.1 Q: What part does stress play in IBD? 5.2 Q: Can anything else cause a flare up? 6.1 Q: How can I make the most of my consultations with my physician? == 1.0 Digestive System Primer The Digestive System is a complex system of organs responsible for converting the food we eat into the nutrients which we require to fuel our metabolism. Here is a guide to the terminology used to describe the various components of the Digestive System. The Digestive System in essence consists of a long tube which connects the mouth to the anus. The term Gastrointestinal (GI) tract refers to the entire system. Once food leaves your mouth it enters the first part of the GI tract which is called the esophagus and then the stomach. The food passes relatively quickly into the stomach where it pauses and is churned up with acid into very small particles. It then passes into the small intestine which is about 20 feet long. The main function of the small intestine is to absorb nutrients from the food particles that arrive from the

… read more »

Response:

X-Last-Updated: 1999/10/12 Newsgroups: alt.support.crohns-colitis,alt.answers,news.answers Followup-To: alt.support.crohns-colitis Distribution: world Organization: none Archive-name: medicine/crohns-colitis-faq/part1 Posting-frequency: every two weeks Last-modified: 1999/10/12 Version: 3.1 URL: http://ibdfaq.freeshell.org Inflammatory Bowel Disease Frequently Asked Questions Version 3.1 This document was last modified on 10/12/1999 Part 1 of 2 Introduction: What is Alt.support.crohns-colitis? Alt.support.crohns-colitis was created in early 1994 as a forum where people suffering from ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s Disease, and irritable bowel syndrome can share their everyday struggles with these illnesses, as well as discuss medicines, treatments, surgery, diet, health care providers, related illnesses, and anything else anyone can think of that relates to these diseases.  In other words, this is the online equivalent of a support group, which means that no question is stupid and no condition embarrassing here.  It also means we’re all here to help each other out, so please be nice, be polite, and no flaming. Discussions of all types of medicine- conventional and alternative, Western and Eastern, your Aunt Harriet’s home remedies, whatever- are welcome here; however, any person discussing a potential remedy which he or she also sells must explicitly begin the "Subject" header of their post with the word "AD" or "ADVERTISEMENT" in all caps, regardless of whether or not they profit from such sales.  Spamming is expressly forbidden as violating the rules of netiquette as well as those of this newsgroup.  Finally, please keep in mind that no one knows what causes these illnesses, no one’s come up with a cure, and we need all the help we can get. If you have comments, suggestions, or corrections concerning the content Please do not send me email asking for medical advice, help with your news reader (ask your system administrator) or to subscribe to a mailing list (I have no control over the usenet group or the IBDLIST mailing list) or anything unrelated to the content of this FAQ.  Sorry. Copyright Notice: Copyright 1995-1999 by Christopher Holmes, Kevin Horgan M.D., and Michael Bloom.  All rights reserved.  See the end of this document for information on permission to use, copy and distribute. Disclaimer: This FAQ is provided by the authors "as is".  See end of document for complete disclaimer. Where to get this FAQ: This FAQ is posted twice a month to the alt.support.crohns-colitis, alt.answers, and news.answers newsgroups.   Web: http://ibdfaq.freeshell.org ftp: rtfm.mit.edu and its mirrors Note that there are three other FAQ’s, the Information Resources FAQ, the IBS FAQ and the Collagenous Colitis FAQ The Information Resources FAQ is also posted to alt.support.crohns-colitis twice a month and describes informational resources on IBD and IBS available either on the internet or elsewhere.  It includes address and phone numbers of support organizations such as the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation of America (CCFA) and the United Ostomy Association (UOA), book titles and reviews, and WWW sites. The IBS FAQ deals with Irritable Bowel Syndrome, which has symptoms that can be similar to those of UC or CD.  The Collagenous Colitis FAQ discusses a less typical form of IBD which also shares many of the symptoms of UC. Current versions of all these FAQs can be found at Bill Robertson’s website, URL http://qurlyjoe.bu.edu/cduchome.html. Commonly-used abbreviations in this FAQ and on alt.support.crohns-colitis (a.s.c.-c): IBD     inflammatory bowel disease- includes Crohn’s Disease and             ulcerative colitis IBS     irritable bowel syndrome UC      ulcerative colitis CD      Crohn’s Disease CCFA    the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation of America CCFC    Canadian Foundation for Ileitis and Colitis UOA     the United Ostomy Association NSAID   Non-steroidal, anti-inflammatory drug TPN     Total parenteral nutrition GI      Gastro-intestinal, i.e., pertaining to your digestive system 1.0 Digestive system primer 1.1 Q: What is Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)? 1.1.1 Q: What is ulcerative colitis (UC)? 1.1.2 Q: What is Crohn’s disease (CD)? 1.1.3 Q: What is ileitis? 1.1.4 Q: What is Crohn’s colitis? 1.1.5 Q: What is ulcerative proctitis? 1.1.6 Q: What is Granulomatous colitis? 1.1.7 Q: What is Irritable Bowel Syndrome? 1.2 Q: What symptoms are experienced by IBD patients? 1.2.1 Q: What are extra-intestinal manifestations of these diseases? 1.2.2 Q: What other complications can occur? 1.2.3 Q: What is toxic megacolon? 1.2.4 Q: What are fistulas and abscesses? 1.2.5 Q: What are strictures? 1.2.6 Q: What is the cancer risk in IBD patients? 1.2.6.1 Q: Are there other factors predisposing to the development of colon cancer? 1.2.6.2 Q: Are there ways to reduce the risk of developing colon cancer? 1.3 Q: What are the causes of Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis? 1.4 Q: Could IBD be an inherited condition? 1.5 Q: Who gets these diseases? 1.6 Q: Are there any factors that predispose to the development of UC and/or CD? 1.7 Q:  Are there any factors that protect against the development of UC and/or CD? 1.8 Q: How is ulcerative colitis diagnosed? 1.8.1 Q: What are flexible sigmoidoscopy and colonoscopy? 1.9 Q: How is Crohn’s disease diagnosed? 2.1 Q: What Drug therapies are used to treat IBD? 2.1.1 Q: What are 5-ASA Drugs? 2.1.1.1 Q: What is Azulfidine? 2.1.1.2 Q: What is Dipentum? 2.1.1.3 Q: What is Asacol? 2.1.1.4 Q: What is Salofalk? 2.1.1.5 Q: What is Pentasa? 2.1.1.6 Q: What is Balsalazide? 2.1.1.7 Q: What is Rowasa? 2.1.2 What is Metronidazole? 2.1.3 Q: What is Ciprofloxacin? 2.1.4 Q: What is Clarithromycin (Biaxin)? 2.1.5 Q: What are adrenal corticosteroids (steroids), and when and why are they used? 2.1.5.1 Q: What are the side effects from taking steroids? 2.1.5.2 Q: What is meant by "Alternate Day Therapy"? 2.1.5.3 What is Budesonide? 2.1.5.4 What is ACTH? 2.1.5.5 Q: What do steroids do to bones? 2.1.5.6 Q:  What should be done to minimize the damage done by steroids to  bones when I am being treated for IBD? 2.1.6 Q: What are immunosuppressive drugs and when are they used? 2.1.6.1 Q: What are  Azathioprine and 6-MP? 2.1.6.2 Q: What is Methotrexate? 2.1.6.3 Q: What is Cyclosporine? 2.2 Q: Are any other drugs used to treat IBD? 2.2.1 Q: Are nicotine patches ever used to treat UC? 2.2.2  Q: What about antibodies against TNF (Tumor Necrosis Factor)? 2.2.2.1 Q: What is Tumor Necrosis Factor or TNF? 2.2.2.2 Q: Does TNF serve any useful function? 2.2.2.3 Q: Is TNF important in IBD? just CD? what about UC? 2.2.2.4 Q: What is this new anti-TNF treatment? 2.2.2.5 Q: How does the anti-TNF treatment work? 2.2.2.6 Q: Are there problems with the treatment? 2.2.2.7 Q: What sort of patients are suitable candidates for treatment with        anti-TNF antibody? 2.2.2.8 Q: What are the alternatives available at present? 2.2.3 Q: What about Interleukin-10 (IL-10) therapy for CD? 2.2.4 Q: What about fish oil for therapy? 2.3 Q: Can different drugs be used together to treat IBD? 2.4  Q:  Will I need to keep taking medications permanently? 3.1 Q: Drugs aren’t working, what can surgery do for my UC? 3.1.1 Q: What’s an ileostomy? 3.1.2 Q: What’s a Continent Ileostomy? 3.1.3 Q: What’s an Ileoanal Anastomosis, or Ileoanal Pull-Through? 3.2.4 Q: What can go wrong with these surgeries? 3.2 Q: Are there surgical treatments for Crohn’s? 3.2.1 Q: What’s a resection? 3.2.2 Q: After surgery for CD can anything be done to prevent it recurring again? 4.1 Q: What role does diet play in IBD? 4.1.1 Q: What is an elemental or astronaut diet? 4.1.2 Q: What is total parenteral nutrition? 4.1.3 Q: What is lactose intolerance? 4.2.3.1Q: So what can I do about lactose intolerance? 4.1.3.1 Q: So what can I do about lactose intolerance? 5.1 Q: What part does stress play in IBD? 5.2 Q: Can anything else cause a flare up? 6.1 Q: How can I make the most of my consultations with my physician? 1.0 Digestive System Primer The Digestive System is a complex system of organs responsible for converting the food we eat into the nutrients which we require to fuel our metabolism. Here is a guide to the terminology used to describe the various components of the Digestive System. The Digestive System in essence consists of a long tube which connects the mouth to the anus. The term Gastrointestinal (GI) tract refers to the entire system. Once food leaves your mouth it enters the first part of the GI tract which is called the esophagus and then the stomach. The food passes relatively quickly into the stomach where it pauses and is churned up with acid into very small particles. It then passes into the small intestine which is about 20 feet long. The main function of the small intestine is to absorb nutrients from the food particles that arrive from the stomach. The food is digested with the assistance of secretions from the liver, gall bladder and pancreas. The term bowel is synomymous with intestine. The small intestine is therefore also referred to as small bowel. The small bowel has three parts; the part nearest the stomach is the duodenum, the next part is the jejunum and the third part that connects to the large intestine is the ileum. The last part of the ileum, known as the terminal ileum, is a frequent site of involvement in Crohn’s disease. The large intestine is more frequently referred to as the colon. The first part of the colon is called the cecum and the appendix is … read more »

Response: