Newbie looking for general advice and support
Hi all
After having an endoscopy/colonoscopy/biopsies/stool tests and blood tests I have been diagnosed with Gastritis & Crohn's dz after years of stomach upset but most recently a 12 week flare up.
As well I also have Hemochromatosis which affects my joints and bad arthritis in my hand. The stomach cramps are getting worse, im very tired during the day and yesterday I didn't even get dressed and felt very down and sorry for myself...is this normal?
I know there are many overwhelming feelings that can come with a new diagnose. I am so glad you found our community and hope we can help you feel supported and find information that will be helpful. Have you had the chance to discuss a treatment plan with your doctor yet? It's not uncommon to feel extremely exhausted and also to be dealing with down feelings- this is a lot both physically and emotionally so I hope you can be gentle with yourself. Learning about your new disease is so important so any information we can help you find please let me know! I am attaching here some articles I thought you might find helpful. https://inflammatoryboweldisease.net/living/diagnosed-with-crohns-colitis and https://inflammatoryboweldisease.net/living/newly-diagnosed-support. Please don't hesitate to reach out if you need anything and know we are here for you. You are not alone! Warmly, Erin (IBD team member) 
Hi
. Just to expound on what Vern said, there are a lot of medications besides steroids. This article from our editorial team discusses the various medications for IBD: https://inflammatoryboweldisease.net/treatment/medications. Be sure to discuss any concerns you have with the gastroenterologist, who has specialized training in the treatment of autoimmune gastrointestinal conditions that GPs do not. A treatment plan may be developed between you and the gastroenterologist once they have met with you and done their examination. Wishing you the best and please feel free to keep us posted on things are going and to ask additional questions. People in this community understand and have been where you are. Richard (Team Member) thank you Richard
Hi
, thanks for being part of our community! I know that recent diagnosis isn't the easiest time, but I'm glad you found us and took the time to share what is going on. Sending you lots of love!
For me, it took some time after diagnosis to feel better. I was put on medication quickly, and I believe it took about 3 months to work. Do you have a treatment plan in place with your doctor? If you'd like to share, please feel free to let us know what the plan is! (As a reminder, if the pain is really bad, please do contact them or go to the ER as well!) -Eshani (IBD Team Member)Hi Eshani....thank you for taking time to read my message your reply...I am still awaiting specialist appt as has been rescheduled....my GP did say that meds would be steroids which is already worrying me as I am struggling with weight gain due to HRT meds...so now my mind is still fuzzy with worry. I will keep you updated and thanks again for yr time and help.
Hi
, thanks for sharing! I know that steroids can be really scary, especially with the side effects. I also know that for some people they really work well in the short term (though I would imagine your specialist might want to give you a more long term medication as well). I have also used rectal steroids which have less chance of weight gain in the past, though you would want to speak with your provider about if this would be good for you! Please do keep us updated. -Eshani (IBD Team Member)
