"Ulcerative Colitis Diagnosis"

I started to discover my symptoms several months ago. After going to my GP for an observation I gave bloods and samples. A colonoscopy was then agreed and was carried out late last year. This confirmed that the Ulcerative Colitis was found in the lower section of my bowel. I was given a course of Mezavant XL to help and after only 2 days I started to see a real improvement in the number of times I was going to the toilet. 

Not long after, I started to feel run down and within 3 days I was very ill burning up a temperature of 38.8 degrees. I was eventually admitted to RAH 3 times over Christmas and new year. The third time i was admitted I was moved to Level 6 Ward 27 (Gastro Unit) where I was under the care of Dr McDonald and the other consultants and nurses.

My symptoms weren't improving and after another mini colonoscopy things had gotten worse. Inflammation markers were high in my bloods. I was then told I would be given a drug called Infliximab. If this didn't work Surgery was the next option. I really struggled to accept this news as the surgery would prove to be a life changing experience. Thankfully the Infliximab started to work and the inflammation markers came down significantly in 48 hours. The inflammation came down even further by the time I was released.

Having Dr McDonald and the other consultants and nurses to speak to throughout this whole process really helped me and since I have been home I have looked in to support groups to try and get more information on Ulcerative Colitis and how to cope with the surgery part in case that day ever comes. I don't want to treat this like "I was lucky" and it wont happen to me. It's important to get as much knowledge as possible so I can take care of myself and live a healthy lifestyle. 

I want to take the time to thank Dr McDonald and the other consultants and nurses in Ward 27 as they took great care of me and I will never be able to thank them enough. I have a young family and with the care and medication I was given I can pick up my life from before I became ill and continue with my life. 

Thanks and regards