Abbott Laboratories Inc on Wednesday posted a quarterly profit in line with expectations, driven by higher sales of its drugs and medical devices and favorable foreign exchange factors that bolstered overseas revenue.
Abbott posted a fourth-quarter profit of $1.20 billion, or 77 cents per share. That compared with a loss of $476 million, or 31 cents per share, in the year-ago period when the company took charges related to its purchase of Kos Pharmaceuticals.
Excluding special items, Abbott earned 93 cents per share, in line with the company's forecast of 91 to 93 cents per share.
Company revenue jumped 16 percent to $7.22 billion in the quarter, above the $6.96 billion average forecast of analysts polled by Reuters Estimates. Growth would have been 4.5 percentage points less if not for the weak dollar, which boosted the value of sales outside the United States.
The suburban Chicago-based health-care company said global revenue from prescription medicines rose 18.7 percent, fueled by double-digit gains for its Humira arthritis drug, Kaletra HIV treatment and TriCor medicine to lower blood fats called triglycerides.
Abbott, which is based in suburban Chicago, forecast that sales of Humira will rise to $4 billion in 2008 as the injectable drug makes further inroads against Johnson & Johnson's popular Enbrel. All three medicines work by blocking an inflammation-causing protein called tumor necrosis factor.
Global sales of Abbott's medical products, including diagnostics and diabetes-care brands, rose 11.5 percent.
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
Due for a Humira Shot
I feel like I am ALWAYS one step away from a Crohn's flare up. Dr. Shafran has just put me on weekly Humira shots. I am a day overdue because the Insurance company always screws it up, but my refrigerated shipment of Humira should arrive today. Hope all is well with you guys.
Saturday, January 12, 2008
David Garrard - CBS Interview - 3:30 - Crohn's Focus?
CBS is doing a special on Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback David Garrard (and wife Mary) at 3:30. It will be about his "remarkable journey", and I assume it will focus on or at least highlight the football player's battle with Crohn's Disease.
Stay tuned for details and possibly a link to the inverview. As you know, I am a big football fan, and am dissapointed that I can't really cheer for my favorite athlete with Crohn's disease today...on account of them playing my team....the New England Patriots. Search my blog for several articles detailing David Garrard's Battle with Chron's.
-Scott
More info on his Crohn's (from jacksonville.com interview)
One test came in 2004, when he had surgery for Crohn's disease, a painful inflammation of the intestines. He takes medication every eight weeks, a 3?-hour procedure; his next appointment is Tuesday, three days after playing the Pittsburgh Steelers in the first round of the playoffs tonight.
"It's a horrible disease, something that a lot of people are affected by," he says. "But I think the Lord blessed me with it, so I could talk about it."
To Mary Garrard, her husband's Christian faith is a key to both his personality and his playing style. "About 95 percent of his temperament comes from his faith," she says. "We're both Christians: There's a higher power, God is in charge of everything, there's no reason to worry about anything."
From IBD site:
David Garrard has been fighting Crohn's disease since 2003. He was sidelined from playing football for the NFL and lost 35 pounds. This season he is back in full force, and the Jaguars have won 6 of his last 7 starts. He credits the turnaround in his health to Remicade. With starting quarterback Byron Leftwich possibly sidelined for the rest of the season, Garrard is now likely to start for the Jaguars for the rest of the year.
Most of us with IBD just struggle to get through a day, or a week, at a time. Sometimes a simple everyday activity like a shopping trip or a night out seems like an impossible task, rather than a pleasure. People with IBD such as David Garrard, Pearl Jam Guitarist Mike McCready, and San Diego Chargers legend Rolf Benirschke are good reminders for us--a productive and fulfulling life is possible with IBD!
Original Story of his Crohn's (From USAToday.com)
Jaguars backup quarterback David Garrard will have surgery next week to alleviate symptoms of Crohn's disease and hopes to be back in time for training camp. Garrard will have diseased tissue removed from where his colon meets his small intestine.
Jacksonville Jaguars' second string quaterback David Garrard will have surgery for Crohn's disease.
Crohn's causes blockage in the intestines, resulting in chronic diarrhea, abdominal pain, fever and weight loss. There is no known cause or cure, and it afflicts more than 500,000 people in the United States.
Garrard, 26, said he will have surgery next Thursday at Baptist Medical Center, and be sidelined until mid-July. He hopes to get himself ready for training camp in late July or early August.
Although the surgery will not cure the disease, Garrard said patients sometimes go 15 to 20 years without symptoms after the surgery.
"I'll be done with football by that time," Garrard said. "There shouldn't be any problems. I could have lived with it if I was a normal person."
Garrard decided to have the surgery after he was hospitalized last weekend when he was in constant pain because his intestines had swollen and were pressing on his bladder.
Garrard stared feeling sick in January and was diagnosed in March.
He completed nine of 12 passes last year for 86 yards and a touchdown. Although the Jaguars signed undrafted rookie Bryson Spinner to give them a fourth quarterback, coach Jack Del Rio said he will await Garrard's return.
"Get healed and come back," Del Rio said. "We're not rushing anybody."
Stay tuned for details and possibly a link to the inverview. As you know, I am a big football fan, and am dissapointed that I can't really cheer for my favorite athlete with Crohn's disease today...on account of them playing my team....the New England Patriots. Search my blog for several articles detailing David Garrard's Battle with Chron's.
-Scott
More info on his Crohn's (from jacksonville.com interview)
One test came in 2004, when he had surgery for Crohn's disease, a painful inflammation of the intestines. He takes medication every eight weeks, a 3?-hour procedure; his next appointment is Tuesday, three days after playing the Pittsburgh Steelers in the first round of the playoffs tonight.
"It's a horrible disease, something that a lot of people are affected by," he says. "But I think the Lord blessed me with it, so I could talk about it."
To Mary Garrard, her husband's Christian faith is a key to both his personality and his playing style. "About 95 percent of his temperament comes from his faith," she says. "We're both Christians: There's a higher power, God is in charge of everything, there's no reason to worry about anything."
From IBD site:
David Garrard has been fighting Crohn's disease since 2003. He was sidelined from playing football for the NFL and lost 35 pounds. This season he is back in full force, and the Jaguars have won 6 of his last 7 starts. He credits the turnaround in his health to Remicade. With starting quarterback Byron Leftwich possibly sidelined for the rest of the season, Garrard is now likely to start for the Jaguars for the rest of the year.
Most of us with IBD just struggle to get through a day, or a week, at a time. Sometimes a simple everyday activity like a shopping trip or a night out seems like an impossible task, rather than a pleasure. People with IBD such as David Garrard, Pearl Jam Guitarist Mike McCready, and San Diego Chargers legend Rolf Benirschke are good reminders for us--a productive and fulfulling life is possible with IBD!
Original Story of his Crohn's (From USAToday.com)
Jaguars backup quarterback David Garrard will have surgery next week to alleviate symptoms of Crohn's disease and hopes to be back in time for training camp. Garrard will have diseased tissue removed from where his colon meets his small intestine.
Jacksonville Jaguars' second string quaterback David Garrard will have surgery for Crohn's disease.
Crohn's causes blockage in the intestines, resulting in chronic diarrhea, abdominal pain, fever and weight loss. There is no known cause or cure, and it afflicts more than 500,000 people in the United States.
Garrard, 26, said he will have surgery next Thursday at Baptist Medical Center, and be sidelined until mid-July. He hopes to get himself ready for training camp in late July or early August.
Although the surgery will not cure the disease, Garrard said patients sometimes go 15 to 20 years without symptoms after the surgery.
"I'll be done with football by that time," Garrard said. "There shouldn't be any problems. I could have lived with it if I was a normal person."
Garrard decided to have the surgery after he was hospitalized last weekend when he was in constant pain because his intestines had swollen and were pressing on his bladder.
Garrard stared feeling sick in January and was diagnosed in March.
He completed nine of 12 passes last year for 86 yards and a touchdown. Although the Jaguars signed undrafted rookie Bryson Spinner to give them a fourth quarterback, coach Jack Del Rio said he will await Garrard's return.
"Get healed and come back," Del Rio said. "We're not rushing anybody."
Monday, January 7, 2008
Phenomenal Article on Crohn's and The Work Place and FMLA
Crohn’s Disease: Intermittent Distress and FMLA
by Presley Reed, M.D.
Crohn's disease is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that intermittently debilitates a small percentage of the US workforce.
The disease usually occurs in younger employees which sometimes makes it difficult for employers and coworkersto understand the individual.s need for intermittent leave.
Because Crohn's disease is a permanent condition with symptoms that flare upintermittently, the employer must remain receptive and responsive to requests for intermittent FMLA leave for the duration of the individual.s employment.
Not only do the symptoms present intermittently, but their intensity also varies greatlybetween episodes for any patient. Consequently, physicians may be hardpressed to establish specific estimates for reasonable periods of leave. Only rough estimates pertain which makes FMLA administration more difficult. Some individuals will need extended leave, particularly when the individual's condition requires surgical treatment or when complications arise, such as severe arthritis.
The Medical Disability: Workplace Guidelines for Disability Duration, FourthEdition (MDA) serves as an educational tool that may help FMLA administrators understand the significance and unpredictability of crohn's disease. The MDAcouples general descriptions of medical conditions with specific workplace related information, with the result that those managing disability cases and/or administering FMLA leave can make educated decisions. According to the MDA, crohn's disease shares the following symptoms and characteristics. Crohn’s disease produces areas of patchy inflammation primarily in the smallintestine, but can also produce inflammation in any part of the digestive tract, including the mouth, esophagus, stomach, and colon.
Where inflammation exists, it extends into all the tissue layers. This results in abdominal pain, diarrhea, gastrointestinal bleeding, and poor absorption (malabsorption) of nutrients fromfood. The disease affects men and women equally and typically develops before theage of 30 years. Although the disease is chronic, usually lasting a lifetime, itproduces inflammation intermittently and can be in remission for long periods of time. The cause of Crohn’s disease is unknown, but an immune system abnormality may play a role.
Because the disease seems to run in families, there may be agenetic element to its development. Crohn’s disease is found in 0.1% of the US. population and is most common in white and Jewish individuals. Stress is believed to aggravate the disease.Symptoms vary according to the severity of the disease, the location of the inflammation, and whether intestinal complications have developed.
Typically an individual experiences intermittent periods of fever, diarrhea, pain in the lower right abdomen, fatigue, and weight loss. Sometimes, symptoms develop outside of the digestive tract. Joint pain, swelling,and tenderness are common extra intestinal symptoms.
Crohn’s disease increases the risk of colon cancer, a development that significantly influences theseverity of the disease.
Long-term use of corticosteroids may causeosteoporosis, cataracts, diabetes, hypertension, and aseptic necrosis of the hip. Crohn’s disease cannot be cured, but its symptoms can be controlled throughnutrition and diet modifications, medication, and sometimes surgery. A brief discussion of each of these responses will help us better understand thes eriousness of the diagnoses and the personal discomfort of the individual.
Not only the discomfort associated with pain but of not knowing whether to expect remission or recurrence. Nutrition is important in this disease, so a diet adequate in calories, vitamins, and protein is recommended.
Diet modifications vary according to the symptoms ofthe disease. During periods of diarrhea, a low-fat, high-fiber diet should befollowed. In contrast, early in the relapse of the disease or if symptoms of obstruction are present, a low-fiber diet is needed. During an acute stage of the disease, no food should be taken by mouth in order to rest the colon. Sometimes, especially with advanced disease, nutritional supplementation is needed.
Nutrients may be placed directly into the stomach or intestine through a tube (enteral therapy) or into the bloodstream intravenously (total parenteral nutrition, or TPN). Anti-inflammatory drugs of the 5-amino salicylic acid group are given to reduce inflammation. Corticosteroids reduce inflammation during an acute attack, but aregiven for only a few months at a time because they may cause significant long term adverse effects.
Immuno suppressive drugs are given to help relieves ymptoms in individuals with severe progressive disease who have no tresponded to other treatments. Iron may be needed to treat anemia, and vitamin B12 injections may be neededdue to malabsorption, particularly if there is advanced disease of the smallintestine. When abscesses are present, antibiotics are given to fight the infection. Bile salt binding agents or other antidiarrheal medications may be helpful during episodes of diarrhea. These, however, should be used with caution. Many individuals gain significant relief from surgery in which a portion of theintestine is removed (resection). In severe disease, the entire colon may beremoved (colectomy). Depending on how much of the intestine is removed, atemporary or permanent passageway may need to be created through which waste materials can be emptied.
Surgery may also be needed to remove a fistula (fistulectomy) or open an obstructed portion of intestine (stricturoplasty). As with any chronic disease, living with Crohn’s disease is challenging. Psychotherapy or participation in a support group may help an individual cope with the particular difficulties associated with Crohn’s disease and the general difficulties of living with chronic disease. Serious as it is, crohn's disease need not stop individual productivity. With medical and surgical management, individuals with Crohn’s disease can be fullyfunctioning throughout a long life. The disease will have periods of exacerbationand periods of remission, but typically does not lead to death. Some workplace adjustments may be necessary.
Flexible and private lavatoryaccess may be needed, particularly during periods of exacerbation. For example,the individual suffering from crohn's disease will not be able to continue at workif only two 15-minute breaks can be provided throughout the workday. Federal FMLA regulations mandate that the individual be allowed as much time as necessary, within the 12-week limit, to seek relief on an intermittent basis and for unpaid job protection. Severe attacks may require a lighter work assignment or time off for recovery orhospitalization.
If surgery is performed, individuals may need to be restricted from heavy lifting for a short period.The length and frequency of disability will depend on several factors: the degreeof inflammation, the amount of bleeding, the individual’s nutritional state, and theextent to which an individual’s disease can be controlled through diet andmedication. If abscesses, obstruction, or fistulas are present, surgery may beneeded.
Although surgery results in immediate disability, the potential for greatersymptomatic relief may decrease future disability absence. The cause of crohn's disease is unknown, but there are documentable effects onthe individual who suffers with this chronic condition. Discounting the severity ofthe symptoms or disregarding requests for FMLA leave may only serve toproduce a negative impact on workplace productivity. This may be especially relevant because stress apparently aggravates the condition. Crohn's disease is without question a "serious health condition" that meets the FMLA criteria for job protection. The difficult aspect of administering leave related to crohn's disease is the chronic, yet unpredictable, nature of its debilitating-symptoms. When the employee’s specific medical condition is known to the administrator (e.g., when FMLA is administered in concurrence with short-term disability or employee illness banks), the employer may then be able to make thebest of a difficult situation. Administering FMLA leave to the mutual benefit of the individual and the company.
PS. I pulled this from a PDF (located here) so there were some spaceing issues
by Presley Reed, M.D.
Crohn's disease is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that intermittently debilitates a small percentage of the US workforce.
The disease usually occurs in younger employees which sometimes makes it difficult for employers and coworkersto understand the individual.s need for intermittent leave.
Because Crohn's disease is a permanent condition with symptoms that flare upintermittently, the employer must remain receptive and responsive to requests for intermittent FMLA leave for the duration of the individual.s employment.
Not only do the symptoms present intermittently, but their intensity also varies greatlybetween episodes for any patient. Consequently, physicians may be hardpressed to establish specific estimates for reasonable periods of leave. Only rough estimates pertain which makes FMLA administration more difficult. Some individuals will need extended leave, particularly when the individual's condition requires surgical treatment or when complications arise, such as severe arthritis.
The Medical Disability: Workplace Guidelines for Disability Duration, FourthEdition (MDA) serves as an educational tool that may help FMLA administrators understand the significance and unpredictability of crohn's disease. The MDAcouples general descriptions of medical conditions with specific workplace related information, with the result that those managing disability cases and/or administering FMLA leave can make educated decisions. According to the MDA, crohn's disease shares the following symptoms and characteristics. Crohn’s disease produces areas of patchy inflammation primarily in the smallintestine, but can also produce inflammation in any part of the digestive tract, including the mouth, esophagus, stomach, and colon.
Where inflammation exists, it extends into all the tissue layers. This results in abdominal pain, diarrhea, gastrointestinal bleeding, and poor absorption (malabsorption) of nutrients fromfood. The disease affects men and women equally and typically develops before theage of 30 years. Although the disease is chronic, usually lasting a lifetime, itproduces inflammation intermittently and can be in remission for long periods of time. The cause of Crohn’s disease is unknown, but an immune system abnormality may play a role.
Because the disease seems to run in families, there may be agenetic element to its development. Crohn’s disease is found in 0.1% of the US. population and is most common in white and Jewish individuals. Stress is believed to aggravate the disease.Symptoms vary according to the severity of the disease, the location of the inflammation, and whether intestinal complications have developed.
Typically an individual experiences intermittent periods of fever, diarrhea, pain in the lower right abdomen, fatigue, and weight loss. Sometimes, symptoms develop outside of the digestive tract. Joint pain, swelling,and tenderness are common extra intestinal symptoms.
Crohn’s disease increases the risk of colon cancer, a development that significantly influences theseverity of the disease.
Long-term use of corticosteroids may causeosteoporosis, cataracts, diabetes, hypertension, and aseptic necrosis of the hip. Crohn’s disease cannot be cured, but its symptoms can be controlled throughnutrition and diet modifications, medication, and sometimes surgery. A brief discussion of each of these responses will help us better understand thes eriousness of the diagnoses and the personal discomfort of the individual.
Not only the discomfort associated with pain but of not knowing whether to expect remission or recurrence. Nutrition is important in this disease, so a diet adequate in calories, vitamins, and protein is recommended.
Diet modifications vary according to the symptoms ofthe disease. During periods of diarrhea, a low-fat, high-fiber diet should befollowed. In contrast, early in the relapse of the disease or if symptoms of obstruction are present, a low-fiber diet is needed. During an acute stage of the disease, no food should be taken by mouth in order to rest the colon. Sometimes, especially with advanced disease, nutritional supplementation is needed.
Nutrients may be placed directly into the stomach or intestine through a tube (enteral therapy) or into the bloodstream intravenously (total parenteral nutrition, or TPN). Anti-inflammatory drugs of the 5-amino salicylic acid group are given to reduce inflammation. Corticosteroids reduce inflammation during an acute attack, but aregiven for only a few months at a time because they may cause significant long term adverse effects.
Immuno suppressive drugs are given to help relieves ymptoms in individuals with severe progressive disease who have no tresponded to other treatments. Iron may be needed to treat anemia, and vitamin B12 injections may be neededdue to malabsorption, particularly if there is advanced disease of the smallintestine. When abscesses are present, antibiotics are given to fight the infection. Bile salt binding agents or other antidiarrheal medications may be helpful during episodes of diarrhea. These, however, should be used with caution. Many individuals gain significant relief from surgery in which a portion of theintestine is removed (resection). In severe disease, the entire colon may beremoved (colectomy). Depending on how much of the intestine is removed, atemporary or permanent passageway may need to be created through which waste materials can be emptied.
Surgery may also be needed to remove a fistula (fistulectomy) or open an obstructed portion of intestine (stricturoplasty). As with any chronic disease, living with Crohn’s disease is challenging. Psychotherapy or participation in a support group may help an individual cope with the particular difficulties associated with Crohn’s disease and the general difficulties of living with chronic disease. Serious as it is, crohn's disease need not stop individual productivity. With medical and surgical management, individuals with Crohn’s disease can be fullyfunctioning throughout a long life. The disease will have periods of exacerbationand periods of remission, but typically does not lead to death. Some workplace adjustments may be necessary.
Flexible and private lavatoryaccess may be needed, particularly during periods of exacerbation. For example,the individual suffering from crohn's disease will not be able to continue at workif only two 15-minute breaks can be provided throughout the workday. Federal FMLA regulations mandate that the individual be allowed as much time as necessary, within the 12-week limit, to seek relief on an intermittent basis and for unpaid job protection. Severe attacks may require a lighter work assignment or time off for recovery orhospitalization.
If surgery is performed, individuals may need to be restricted from heavy lifting for a short period.The length and frequency of disability will depend on several factors: the degreeof inflammation, the amount of bleeding, the individual’s nutritional state, and theextent to which an individual’s disease can be controlled through diet andmedication. If abscesses, obstruction, or fistulas are present, surgery may beneeded.
Although surgery results in immediate disability, the potential for greatersymptomatic relief may decrease future disability absence. The cause of crohn's disease is unknown, but there are documentable effects onthe individual who suffers with this chronic condition. Discounting the severity ofthe symptoms or disregarding requests for FMLA leave may only serve toproduce a negative impact on workplace productivity. This may be especially relevant because stress apparently aggravates the condition. Crohn's disease is without question a "serious health condition" that meets the FMLA criteria for job protection. The difficult aspect of administering leave related to crohn's disease is the chronic, yet unpredictable, nature of its debilitating-symptoms. When the employee’s specific medical condition is known to the administrator (e.g., when FMLA is administered in concurrence with short-term disability or employee illness banks), the employer may then be able to make thebest of a difficult situation. Administering FMLA leave to the mutual benefit of the individual and the company.
PS. I pulled this from a PDF (located here) so there were some spaceing issues
Monday, December 31, 2007
Happy New Years Chronies
Happy New Years to all. It's been a while and by some miracle my health has been pretty good. Hopefully I don't ruin it by celebrating too much tonight. Swedish meatballs, beer, 7-layer dip, Patron, Hypnotiq and Red Bull, Sausages....ugh. Recipe for Crohn's Disease Disaster anyone?
Anyhow, happy new year to you all. I am greatful for all of the support from the Crohn's Community and am glad to be able to provide information, experiences, and a good poop story now and then!
Anyhow, happy new year to you all. I am greatful for all of the support from the Crohn's Community and am glad to be able to provide information, experiences, and a good poop story now and then!
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
6 Tips for Managing Your Crohn's Disease Through the Holidays
1. Keep to Your Routines - Continue to take your medication on time and get regular rest. Crohn’s Disease Flare Ups are bound to happen when you don't follow the routine that works for you.
2. Beat the Holiday Blues - If you feel the holiday blues coming on, don't be afraid to talk to your healthcare provider. The sooner you get help, the better you will feel throughout the season. As I have said many times, I always have Crohn’s Disease flare ups during the holidays. So far so good this year!
3. Don't Party Too Hard - Decide which social functions you can realistically attend without stress overload. Running yourself ragged to make every holiday party can leave you too tired to enjoy any of them. Be sensible about holiday drinking. Some people with IBD find that alcohol can contribute to symptoms such as diarrhea or gas. I suck at this one!!
4. Less is more - Keep your entertaining simple, and save yourself energy and frustration. I suck at this one too…come to my holiday party!
5. Take a Break! - Take a time out for yourself if you need it. Some quiet time to de-stress is important.
6. Travel Well – Keep your diet…get your rest. Manage your Crohn’s Disease, don’t let it manage you.
2. Beat the Holiday Blues - If you feel the holiday blues coming on, don't be afraid to talk to your healthcare provider. The sooner you get help, the better you will feel throughout the season. As I have said many times, I always have Crohn’s Disease flare ups during the holidays. So far so good this year!
3. Don't Party Too Hard - Decide which social functions you can realistically attend without stress overload. Running yourself ragged to make every holiday party can leave you too tired to enjoy any of them. Be sensible about holiday drinking. Some people with IBD find that alcohol can contribute to symptoms such as diarrhea or gas. I suck at this one!!
4. Less is more - Keep your entertaining simple, and save yourself energy and frustration. I suck at this one too…come to my holiday party!
5. Take a Break! - Take a time out for yourself if you need it. Some quiet time to de-stress is important.
6. Travel Well – Keep your diet…get your rest. Manage your Crohn’s Disease, don’t let it manage you.
Monday, December 17, 2007
The Brits Announce Bacteria in Cows Milk Likely Cause of Crohn's Disease
Scientists at the University of Liverpool, United Kingdom, have discovered a certain type of bacteria in cattle as a likely cause for Crohn's disease in human beings. The bacteria, called Mycobacterium paratuberculosis, are known to cause the debilitating Johne's disease in cattle. It is believed the bacteria are transferred from cows to humans via milk and dairy product consumption. The British scientists have been able to observe reactions caused by the bacteria in the human body that could tap it as a cause for Crohn's disease. This could open up new ways for finding more effective treatment options for Crohn's.
Crohn's disease is a chronic inflammation of the intestines. Patients suffering from Crohn's disease experience pain, bleeding, and diarrhea. If medical treatment options are not successful, relieve can often only be found through the removal of the effected part of the intestines. Similarly, Johne's disease in cattle causes severe diarrhea. As a result of the disease cattle usually slowly perishes. While the cause of Johne's disease has been known, until now there had been no known cause for Crohn's disease. It has been most recently theorized that Crohn's (not Chrones, chrons, or chron's) disease is genetically linked. The British Scientists now seem to be able to explain how the presence of Mycobacterium paratuberculosis in a patient's body can cause Crohn's disease.
It has long been known that patients suffering from Crohn's disease have a higher than usual level of E.coli bacteria in their body. Similarly, Mycobacterium paratuberculosis has been known to be present in Crohn's disease tissue. But until now, nobody has been able to explain the bacteria's presence and connection to the disease. Now the British scientists have been able to observe that the bacteria, Mycobacterium paratuberculosis, inhibit the body's immune system response to E.coli bacteria.
Mycobacterium paratuberculosis discharges a mannose-containing molecule. Mannose is a type of sugar. This molecule stops macrophages, a type of white blood cells, from destroying E.coli bacteria in the patient's body. The increased level of E.coli bacteria weakens the immune systems response to other intestinal bacteria, including Mycobacterium paratuberculosis.
The scientists also determined that the bacteria could cause an increase in a circulating antibody protein (ASCA). Two-thirds of Crohn's disease patients have this type of protein indicating a likely infection with Mycobacterium paratuberculosis.
Clinical trials are planned to seek out treatment options through an antibiotic combination, which is aimed at eliminating Mycobacterium paratuberculosis in a Crohn's disease patient's body. If the scientists' assumption is correct, the disease should subside with the elimination of the bacteria.
Crohn's disease is a chronic inflammation of the intestines. Patients suffering from Crohn's disease experience pain, bleeding, and diarrhea. If medical treatment options are not successful, relieve can often only be found through the removal of the effected part of the intestines. Similarly, Johne's disease in cattle causes severe diarrhea. As a result of the disease cattle usually slowly perishes. While the cause of Johne's disease has been known, until now there had been no known cause for Crohn's disease. It has been most recently theorized that Crohn's (not Chrones, chrons, or chron's) disease is genetically linked. The British Scientists now seem to be able to explain how the presence of Mycobacterium paratuberculosis in a patient's body can cause Crohn's disease.
It has long been known that patients suffering from Crohn's disease have a higher than usual level of E.coli bacteria in their body. Similarly, Mycobacterium paratuberculosis has been known to be present in Crohn's disease tissue. But until now, nobody has been able to explain the bacteria's presence and connection to the disease. Now the British scientists have been able to observe that the bacteria, Mycobacterium paratuberculosis, inhibit the body's immune system response to E.coli bacteria.
Mycobacterium paratuberculosis discharges a mannose-containing molecule. Mannose is a type of sugar. This molecule stops macrophages, a type of white blood cells, from destroying E.coli bacteria in the patient's body. The increased level of E.coli bacteria weakens the immune systems response to other intestinal bacteria, including Mycobacterium paratuberculosis.
The scientists also determined that the bacteria could cause an increase in a circulating antibody protein (ASCA). Two-thirds of Crohn's disease patients have this type of protein indicating a likely infection with Mycobacterium paratuberculosis.
Clinical trials are planned to seek out treatment options through an antibiotic combination, which is aimed at eliminating Mycobacterium paratuberculosis in a Crohn's disease patient's body. If the scientists' assumption is correct, the disease should subside with the elimination of the bacteria.
Thursday, December 13, 2007
Crohn's Disease and Stress - Exploring the Link Between Crohn's and Stress
Although stress doesn't cause Crohn's disease, it can make your signs and symptoms much worse and may trigger flare-ups. Stressful events can range from minor annoyances to a move, job loss or the death of a loved one. Every flare-up and even my initial diagnosis can be directly related to stress. Almost every Chron's Disease patient I talk to or hear about supports a simple fact. There is a link between Crohn's and Stress.
It is basic science (and common sense). When you're stressed, your normal digestive process changes. Your stomach empties more slowly and secretes more acids. Stress can also speed or slow the passage of intestinal contents. It may also cause changes in intestinal tissue itself. For someone with Crohn's this stress often leads to falre ups
Although it's not always possible to avoid stress, you can learn ways to help manage it. Some of these include:
Exercise. Even mild exercise can help reduce stress, relieve depression and normalize bowel function. Talk to your doctor about an exercise plan that's right for you.
Biofeedback. This stress-reduction technique helps you reduce muscle tension and slow your heart rate with the help of a feedback machine. You're then taught how to produce these changes yourself. The goal is to help you enter a relaxed state so that you can cope more easily with stress. Biofeedback is usually taught in hospitals and medical centers. For me....soccer, running and lifting weights all reduce my stress. They also give me incentive to eat better. Less stress and better diet = Healthier Living = Crohn's Flare Up Control. If you are having a flare up, I feel that these things can also bring you out of it.
Regular relaxation and breathing exercises. An effective way to cope with stress from Crohn's disease is to regularly relax and exercise. You can take classes in yoga and meditation or practice at home using books or tapes.
You can also practice progressive relaxation exercises. These help relax the muscles in your body, one by one. Start by tightening the muscles in your feet, then concentrate on slowly letting all the tension go. Next, tighten and relax your calves. Continue until muscles in your body, including those in your eyes and scalp, are completely relaxed.
Deep breathing also can help you relax. Most adults breathe from their chests. But you become calmer when you breathe from your diaphragm — the muscle that separates your chest from your abdomen. When you inhale, allow your belly to expand with air; when you exhale, your abdomen naturally contracts. Deep breathing can also help relax your abdominal muscles, which may lead to more normal bowel activity.
Hypnosis. Hypnosis may reduce abdominal pain and bloating. A trained professional teaches you how to enter a relaxed state and then guides you as you imagine your intestinal muscles becoming smooth and calm.
Other techniques. Set aside at least 20 minutes a day for any activity you find relaxing — listening to music, reading, playing computer games or just soaking in a warm bath.
Bottom Line: Whatever you can do to reduce stress in your life will have a positive impact on your Crohn's.
Take care, be healthy and live a better life.
It is basic science (and common sense). When you're stressed, your normal digestive process changes. Your stomach empties more slowly and secretes more acids. Stress can also speed or slow the passage of intestinal contents. It may also cause changes in intestinal tissue itself. For someone with Crohn's this stress often leads to falre ups
Although it's not always possible to avoid stress, you can learn ways to help manage it. Some of these include:
Exercise. Even mild exercise can help reduce stress, relieve depression and normalize bowel function. Talk to your doctor about an exercise plan that's right for you.
Biofeedback. This stress-reduction technique helps you reduce muscle tension and slow your heart rate with the help of a feedback machine. You're then taught how to produce these changes yourself. The goal is to help you enter a relaxed state so that you can cope more easily with stress. Biofeedback is usually taught in hospitals and medical centers. For me....soccer, running and lifting weights all reduce my stress. They also give me incentive to eat better. Less stress and better diet = Healthier Living = Crohn's Flare Up Control. If you are having a flare up, I feel that these things can also bring you out of it.
Regular relaxation and breathing exercises. An effective way to cope with stress from Crohn's disease is to regularly relax and exercise. You can take classes in yoga and meditation or practice at home using books or tapes.
You can also practice progressive relaxation exercises. These help relax the muscles in your body, one by one. Start by tightening the muscles in your feet, then concentrate on slowly letting all the tension go. Next, tighten and relax your calves. Continue until muscles in your body, including those in your eyes and scalp, are completely relaxed.
Deep breathing also can help you relax. Most adults breathe from their chests. But you become calmer when you breathe from your diaphragm — the muscle that separates your chest from your abdomen. When you inhale, allow your belly to expand with air; when you exhale, your abdomen naturally contracts. Deep breathing can also help relax your abdominal muscles, which may lead to more normal bowel activity.
Hypnosis. Hypnosis may reduce abdominal pain and bloating. A trained professional teaches you how to enter a relaxed state and then guides you as you imagine your intestinal muscles becoming smooth and calm.
Other techniques. Set aside at least 20 minutes a day for any activity you find relaxing — listening to music, reading, playing computer games or just soaking in a warm bath.
Bottom Line: Whatever you can do to reduce stress in your life will have a positive impact on your Crohn's.
Take care, be healthy and live a better life.
Friday, December 7, 2007
Crohn's Disease Tattoo- And Crohn's Disease Travel Tips
Hey guys, go my Humira shot Wednesday night. Nothing much new to report other than I have been waking up with pretty bad cramps. Doc Shafran usually says thats not a great sign. We'll see, makes me nervous as my Crohn's invaraible acts up during the holidays. Got my leg tattoo worked on yesterday. My wife is getting a Crohn's Disease ribbon tattoo (very small) on her foot to show her support for all of us Crohnies.
Also, below is a great article on travelling and Crohn's. I thought it was appropriate given the holiday travel many of us will be planning to do. Article is from Sara Jenkins, Sarah is an acclaimed writer on medical matters, and has written extensively on the subjects of Attention Deficit Disorder, Bird Flu and Cohn’s Disease.
Although Crohn’s Disease is a difficult disorder, you should not keep yourself from living the best life possible because you suffer from this disorder. You should continue in your life as you would without Crohn’s, although a few more precautions may be necessary. When traveling, this will ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. The first thing you should do, whether you are traveling abroad or close to home, is locate a doctor in the area you will be visiting. There are several organizations available to utilize in your search or you can simply ask your doctor for referrals.
If you are taking prescription medication, you should be sure to take plenty for the duration of your trip. You should also keep it with you when you travel on the plane to avoid it being lost in the heaps of luggage. Always keep your medication in its original container and a typed statement from your doctor regarding what medications you are taking and what they are for.
You will also need to get copies of all of your prescriptions, including foreign names, in case you have to refill them abroad. However, you should avoid this by carrying enough medication with you, as filling prescriptions in other counties can sometimes be difficult. A common ailment among travelers to less developed countries is known as "traveler’s diarrhea". This can be especially dangerous for sufferers of Chron's Disease and special care should be taken to avoid it from occurring. Basically, traveler’s diarrhea occurs from the ingestion of water or food that is not as stringently processed as in the United States. Steps that should be taken include being very careful about what you eat or drink; do not drink water unless you boil it; avoid drinks made from tap water, like tea or juices that may have been mixed from concentrate; use bottled water to drink and to brush your teeth with; avoid ice, ice cream, and uncooked fruits, vegetables, and meat; avoid diary products as they may not be pasteurized; and do not eat any questionable food.
If you become affected with traveler’s diarrhea, take an over the counter medication and be sure to intake plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration. Also watch for signs of a medical emergency, such as high fever or chills, which may be a sign of infection; profuse rectal bleeding; extreme abdominal pain; dizziness; or dehydration. If any of these occur, seek medical attention immediately.
-Scott
Also, below is a great article on travelling and Crohn's. I thought it was appropriate given the holiday travel many of us will be planning to do. Article is from Sara Jenkins, Sarah is an acclaimed writer on medical matters, and has written extensively on the subjects of Attention Deficit Disorder, Bird Flu and Cohn’s Disease.
Although Crohn’s Disease is a difficult disorder, you should not keep yourself from living the best life possible because you suffer from this disorder. You should continue in your life as you would without Crohn’s, although a few more precautions may be necessary. When traveling, this will ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. The first thing you should do, whether you are traveling abroad or close to home, is locate a doctor in the area you will be visiting. There are several organizations available to utilize in your search or you can simply ask your doctor for referrals.
If you are taking prescription medication, you should be sure to take plenty for the duration of your trip. You should also keep it with you when you travel on the plane to avoid it being lost in the heaps of luggage. Always keep your medication in its original container and a typed statement from your doctor regarding what medications you are taking and what they are for.
You will also need to get copies of all of your prescriptions, including foreign names, in case you have to refill them abroad. However, you should avoid this by carrying enough medication with you, as filling prescriptions in other counties can sometimes be difficult. A common ailment among travelers to less developed countries is known as "traveler’s diarrhea". This can be especially dangerous for sufferers of Chron's Disease and special care should be taken to avoid it from occurring. Basically, traveler’s diarrhea occurs from the ingestion of water or food that is not as stringently processed as in the United States. Steps that should be taken include being very careful about what you eat or drink; do not drink water unless you boil it; avoid drinks made from tap water, like tea or juices that may have been mixed from concentrate; use bottled water to drink and to brush your teeth with; avoid ice, ice cream, and uncooked fruits, vegetables, and meat; avoid diary products as they may not be pasteurized; and do not eat any questionable food.
If you become affected with traveler’s diarrhea, take an over the counter medication and be sure to intake plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration. Also watch for signs of a medical emergency, such as high fever or chills, which may be a sign of infection; profuse rectal bleeding; extreme abdominal pain; dizziness; or dehydration. If any of these occur, seek medical attention immediately.
-Scott
Monday, December 3, 2007
Embarassing Crohn's and Work Story - Unbelievable
So this morning I get to work about an hour early as normal. I fold up the sports section of the Orlando Sentinel and put it my back pocket. I then begin my casual stroll to the bathroom. "Nothing to see here folks, not going poop..just minding my own business..."
So I read about all of the NFL news, wash my hands, check my face out in the mirror for any leftover toothpaste or zit cream, and walk back into the office. I stroll through the hall of our accouting department and give a half-hearted, monday morning hello to the ladies. I see our COO walking down the hall and she is looking at me funny.
From about 20 ft away, I see this look...then she asks me what is that....At this point I notice that I have toilet paper (from lining the seat) stuck in my pants. And n0t 5 sheets. I double it up on the seat, so I had a good 15-20 sheets trailing down my pant leg like a tail. It was so long that about 2 sheets are touching the floor!!!
She starts cracking up and says, "OH, this is going to be a good one Scott." As I snatched it out of my pants, I calmly replied that I was throwing myself a ticker-tape parade to start the beginning of the week!
Wow, what a Monday. I love Crohn's disease and poop stories. Unfortunately this one is VERY true!
So I read about all of the NFL news, wash my hands, check my face out in the mirror for any leftover toothpaste or zit cream, and walk back into the office. I stroll through the hall of our accouting department and give a half-hearted, monday morning hello to the ladies. I see our COO walking down the hall and she is looking at me funny.
From about 20 ft away, I see this look...then she asks me what is that....At this point I notice that I have toilet paper (from lining the seat) stuck in my pants. And n0t 5 sheets. I double it up on the seat, so I had a good 15-20 sheets trailing down my pant leg like a tail. It was so long that about 2 sheets are touching the floor!!!
She starts cracking up and says, "OH, this is going to be a good one Scott." As I snatched it out of my pants, I calmly replied that I was throwing myself a ticker-tape parade to start the beginning of the week!
Wow, what a Monday. I love Crohn's disease and poop stories. Unfortunately this one is VERY true!
Sunday, December 2, 2007
Scott Roy in the Orlando Sentinel - Crohn's Article with Dr. Shafran
Link to the article is here - http://www.orlandosentinel.com/community/news/deltona/orl-crohns0207dec02,0,4333743.story
Dr. Shafran (Winter Park, FL) was featured in the Orlando Sentinel today for an article highlighting his Crohn's Disease Research. He just published a paper on a new antibiotic used to treat Crohn's, and the relation to bacteria and Crohn's Disease. Yours truly, Mr Scott Roy, is featured in the lead photo. I love the way Dr. Shafran and his staff take care of me!! He is an awesome doctor. I encourage you all to check out the article, and if you are in Florida, you will not find a better Gastroenterologist.
Dr. Shafran (Winter Park, FL) was featured in the Orlando Sentinel today for an article highlighting his Crohn's Disease Research. He just published a paper on a new antibiotic used to treat Crohn's, and the relation to bacteria and Crohn's Disease. Yours truly, Mr Scott Roy, is featured in the lead photo. I love the way Dr. Shafran and his staff take care of me!! He is an awesome doctor. I encourage you all to check out the article, and if you are in Florida, you will not find a better Gastroenterologist.
Here is the article:
Dr. Ira Shafran sees Crohn's disease patient Scott Roy at his Winter Park office. Shafran is a gastroenterologist who is treating some Crohn's disease patients with antibiotics. (ROBERTO GONZALEZ, ORLANDO SENTINEL / November 21, 2007)
Doctors are trying a new strategy to treat Crohn's disease, an often-debilitating digestive condition that typically strikes in the teens or 20s and causes lifelong problems.
About 700,000 Americans suffer from the incurable illness, which can lead to inflammation, scarring and intestinal blockages that require surgery. Patients often take powerful steroids and immune-suppressing drugs to control symptoms.
But some doctors are experimenting with antibiotics as the main therapy. Their goal is to attack a bacterial infection that they think could be causing the disease.
Arianne Percy believes in the strategy.
The 26-year-old Deltona woman has been taking an antibiotic for six months. After dealing with abdominal pain since the age of 12, Percy said she is now symptom-free 90 percent of the time.
"I feel better than I have in years," Percy said. "I just hope it keeps working."
Her physician, Dr. Ira Shafran of Winter Park, has been studying potential bacterial causes of Crohn's for years. He thinks one culprit is a cousin to tuberculosis -- Mycobacterium avium paratuberculosis or MAP.
Shafran said an early, aggressive course of antibiotics could help many patients get better control of their symptoms. He has been testing antibiotic treatments in his own patients since the late 1990s, with varying success.
"While specific bacteria have never been identified as the only cause for Crohn's, we have enough scientific evidence . . . that bacteria are pivotal in the origin and persistence of this disease," Shafran said.
Inflames bowels
Crohn's disease -- named in 1932 after Dr. Burrill B. Crohn -- is a form of inflammatory bowel disease or IBD. Historically, doctors had thought of the illness as an autoimmune disorder.
Such conditions occur when the immune system attacks its own tissues -- in this case, the digestive tract. But many doctors now think Crohn's is not the body's attack on itself but a mistaken assault on bacteria that naturally live in the intestines. Numbering in the billions, these bacteria aid in food digestion and typically pose no harm.
For Crohn's patients, doctors speculate that the visitors provoke a chronic immune response that wreaks havoc on the body.
Sufferers can face abdominal cramping, diarrhea and the urgent need to use the bathroom. The condition can flare up periodically throughout a sufferer's lifetime.
"It's a disease of young people, [striking] at a time when they want to go to school, get married and start their careers," said Dr. Daniel Present, a Crohn's expert at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York. "It can be very serious."
Some patients need to take potent immune-suppressant medication. Many also take antibiotics, though usually for short periods and in combination with other medicines.
Dr. Jonathan Braun from the University of California at Los Angeles said it's too early to know whether the drugs could play a bigger role in controlling the illness. Though many suspect Crohn's is linked to bacteria, he said there is no consensus on which specific types are to blame, which antibiotics are effective and how long a patient should take them.
"There's a lot of research that's left to be done on bacteria in the gut, and I think that as we understand those better, there will be new treatments," said Braun, chairman of the National Scientific Advisory Committee for the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation of America. "But for now, it's important to realize that while antibiotics may help some patients, none have shown to work on the majority of patients."
More research needed
In his Winter Park practice, Shafran estimates that about 100 of his patients are on long-term antibiotic therapy for Crohn's. They may remain on the drugs for years, with Shafran monitoring their progress and reducing the dosage as their symptoms subside.
He acknowledges the approach doesn't always work.
Another of his patients, Kira Banks, 25, of College Park has been through a course of antibiotics without success. She now takes an immune-suppressing drug that she credits with bringing her relief.
"This can be a very devastating disease," Banks said.
Shafran and his like-minded colleagues say more research is needed into the possible bacterial origins of Crohn's. For now, many have focused on Mycobacterium because the organism is known to cause a digestive disorder in cattle called Johne's disease.
But Shafran said MAP is not the sole answer to Crohn's, which is influenced by genetics and many as-yet unknown environmental triggers. He worries that drug companies, which typically don't make as much money on antibiotics, will not be interested in investigating their wider use in Crohn's sufferers.
And doctors are entrenched in their habits, turning to immune suppressants and other, more-potent drugs to attack the illness.
"A lot of people think, 'Why should I use a small-caliber weapon when I've got all these .44 Magnums lying around?' " Shafran said.
Dr. William Chamberlin from Texas also treats many of his Crohn's patients with antibiotics, often using generic versions that he says offer a low-cost treatment with fewer side effects.
"I cannot say it's a cure for patients, though some do remarkably well," said Chamberlin, an associate professor at Texas Tech University. "Others don't really do well at all."
Robyn Shelton can be reached at rshelton@orlandosentinel.com or 407-420-5487.
Dr. Ira Shafran sees Crohn's disease patient Scott Roy at his Winter Park office. Shafran is a gastroenterologist who is treating some Crohn's disease patients with antibiotics. (ROBERTO GONZALEZ, ORLANDO SENTINEL / November 21, 2007)
Doctors are trying a new strategy to treat Crohn's disease, an often-debilitating digestive condition that typically strikes in the teens or 20s and causes lifelong problems.
About 700,000 Americans suffer from the incurable illness, which can lead to inflammation, scarring and intestinal blockages that require surgery. Patients often take powerful steroids and immune-suppressing drugs to control symptoms.
But some doctors are experimenting with antibiotics as the main therapy. Their goal is to attack a bacterial infection that they think could be causing the disease.
Arianne Percy believes in the strategy.
The 26-year-old Deltona woman has been taking an antibiotic for six months. After dealing with abdominal pain since the age of 12, Percy said she is now symptom-free 90 percent of the time.
"I feel better than I have in years," Percy said. "I just hope it keeps working."
Her physician, Dr. Ira Shafran of Winter Park, has been studying potential bacterial causes of Crohn's for years. He thinks one culprit is a cousin to tuberculosis -- Mycobacterium avium paratuberculosis or MAP.
Shafran said an early, aggressive course of antibiotics could help many patients get better control of their symptoms. He has been testing antibiotic treatments in his own patients since the late 1990s, with varying success.
"While specific bacteria have never been identified as the only cause for Crohn's, we have enough scientific evidence . . . that bacteria are pivotal in the origin and persistence of this disease," Shafran said.
Inflames bowels
Crohn's disease -- named in 1932 after Dr. Burrill B. Crohn -- is a form of inflammatory bowel disease or IBD. Historically, doctors had thought of the illness as an autoimmune disorder.
Such conditions occur when the immune system attacks its own tissues -- in this case, the digestive tract. But many doctors now think Crohn's is not the body's attack on itself but a mistaken assault on bacteria that naturally live in the intestines. Numbering in the billions, these bacteria aid in food digestion and typically pose no harm.
For Crohn's patients, doctors speculate that the visitors provoke a chronic immune response that wreaks havoc on the body.
Sufferers can face abdominal cramping, diarrhea and the urgent need to use the bathroom. The condition can flare up periodically throughout a sufferer's lifetime.
"It's a disease of young people, [striking] at a time when they want to go to school, get married and start their careers," said Dr. Daniel Present, a Crohn's expert at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York. "It can be very serious."
Some patients need to take potent immune-suppressant medication. Many also take antibiotics, though usually for short periods and in combination with other medicines.
Dr. Jonathan Braun from the University of California at Los Angeles said it's too early to know whether the drugs could play a bigger role in controlling the illness. Though many suspect Crohn's is linked to bacteria, he said there is no consensus on which specific types are to blame, which antibiotics are effective and how long a patient should take them.
"There's a lot of research that's left to be done on bacteria in the gut, and I think that as we understand those better, there will be new treatments," said Braun, chairman of the National Scientific Advisory Committee for the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation of America. "But for now, it's important to realize that while antibiotics may help some patients, none have shown to work on the majority of patients."
More research needed
In his Winter Park practice, Shafran estimates that about 100 of his patients are on long-term antibiotic therapy for Crohn's. They may remain on the drugs for years, with Shafran monitoring their progress and reducing the dosage as their symptoms subside.
He acknowledges the approach doesn't always work.
Another of his patients, Kira Banks, 25, of College Park has been through a course of antibiotics without success. She now takes an immune-suppressing drug that she credits with bringing her relief.
"This can be a very devastating disease," Banks said.
Shafran and his like-minded colleagues say more research is needed into the possible bacterial origins of Crohn's. For now, many have focused on Mycobacterium because the organism is known to cause a digestive disorder in cattle called Johne's disease.
But Shafran said MAP is not the sole answer to Crohn's, which is influenced by genetics and many as-yet unknown environmental triggers. He worries that drug companies, which typically don't make as much money on antibiotics, will not be interested in investigating their wider use in Crohn's sufferers.
And doctors are entrenched in their habits, turning to immune suppressants and other, more-potent drugs to attack the illness.
"A lot of people think, 'Why should I use a small-caliber weapon when I've got all these .44 Magnums lying around?' " Shafran said.
Dr. William Chamberlin from Texas also treats many of his Crohn's patients with antibiotics, often using generic versions that he says offer a low-cost treatment with fewer side effects.
"I cannot say it's a cure for patients, though some do remarkably well," said Chamberlin, an associate professor at Texas Tech University. "Others don't really do well at all."
Robyn Shelton can be reached at rshelton@orlandosentinel.com or 407-420-5487.
Record Day for this Crohn's Disease Blog - Due to David Garrard Crohn's Mention on NBC
Watching the Jaguars Colts NFL game today and they mentioned David Garrard's Battle with Crohn's Disease and also some stuff on his wife Mary. As a result I have had over 250 visitors so far today (average about 125 a day) from people doing Google searches for terms such as David Garrard Crohn's. Garrard Crohn's, David Garrard wife Mary, David Garrard Crohn's Treatment, Jaguar crohn's, mary garrard and many more.
For those of you looking, my David Garrard 2 of my Garard related posts are here, and here.
For those of you looking, my David Garrard 2 of my Garard related posts are here, and here.
Friday, November 30, 2007
Typical Crohn's Pain and Night Sweats
Typical past few days and nights. Severe pain in the area of my Crohn's (terminal illieum) and big-time night sweats. It is likely a combination of the Crohn's and a crowded bed..whatever it is, it has me sweating. We got a new boxer puppy...He is 10 weeks old, and sleeps between my wife and me. Our 9 year old springer sleeps across our feet. It's a crowd, and last night I slept in the ever-desirable "fish hook" position. Fun times! Anyhow, my Crohn's always acts up during the holidays. I have been running again so maybe that will keep the Chron's Disease at bay. We will see. Good luck to all of you Crohn's disease sweaters out there.
Monday, November 26, 2007
Off Topic - My MySpace Page
Hey guys...I try to keep this blog Crohn's related...but if for some reason you want to know more about me as a person outside of our disease...check out my Myspace Page, here. Feel free to drop me a line there or friend request me!
Mike McCready of Pearl Jam - Crohn's and Remicade or Humira?
As many of you may know, guitarist Mike Mcready of Pearl Jam is a long time Crohn's Patient. You may not know that he is currently treating his Crohn's with Humira. Does anyone know what David Garrard (quarterback for the NFL's Jacksonville's Jaguars) is treating his Crohn's with?
Regarding Mike McCready of Pearl Jam (From Billboard):
However, the guitarist has now been in Crohn's remission since the spring of 2005, thanks to a largely carbohydrate-less diet and a new medicine, Humira, which is also used to treat arthritis. That combo allowed McCready to endure the extensive tour Pearl Jam set out on in support of its 2006 self-titled album for J Records."I've been out for shorter period of times that were 20 times as miserable, because I just couldn't manage it," he admits. "This was, in effect, a walk in the park. I just put the medication in the freezer or the refrigerator at the gig. It was a long tour, so I was lucky to be able to have this thing work."
Regarding Mike McCready of Pearl Jam (From Billboard):
However, the guitarist has now been in Crohn's remission since the spring of 2005, thanks to a largely carbohydrate-less diet and a new medicine, Humira, which is also used to treat arthritis. That combo allowed McCready to endure the extensive tour Pearl Jam set out on in support of its 2006 self-titled album for J Records."I've been out for shorter period of times that were 20 times as miserable, because I just couldn't manage it," he admits. "This was, in effect, a walk in the park. I just put the medication in the freezer or the refrigerator at the gig. It was a long tour, so I was lucky to be able to have this thing work."
Smoking and Crohns Disease
Hey Guys - I found some interesting new info on Smoking and Crohn's Disease. Alot of people ask me about the realtionship between smoking and Crohn's, so here you go ( from April 2007):
A new study in The American Journal of Gastroenterology suggests that smoking may determine which part of the intestinal tract is attacked in those who suffer from Crohn’s disease. Where the disease is located often determines whether the patient will eventually require surgical treatment.
“In patients who smoke, Crohn’s disease tends to appear more frequently in the small intestine, rather than the colon,” says study author Dr. Marian Aldhous. “Our data shows that when Crohn’s disease is located here, it tends to cause more penetrating or obstructive damage, which would have to be treated by surgery.”
The results of this study raise interesting questions about why smoking would affect different parts of the intestine in different ways.
“Fundamental differences in small and large bowel physiology may explain the differences in location of Crohn’s disease in smokers,” says Aldhous. “The effects of smoking should be further investigated, to understand why smoking has a differential effect on different parts of the bowel.”
Personally my worries skew more towards the link between alcohol and Crohn's!
Smoking and Crohns Disease
Hey Guys - I found some interesting new info on Smoking and Crohn's Disease. Alot of people ask me about the realtionship between smoking and Crohn's, so here you go ( from April 2007):
A new study in The American Journal of Gastroenterology suggests that smoking may determine which part of the intestinal tract is attacked in those who suffer from Crohn’s disease. Where the disease is located often determines whether the patient will eventually require surgical treatment.
“In patients who smoke, Crohn’s disease tends to appear more frequently in the small intestine, rather than the colon,” says study author Dr. Marian Aldhous. “Our data shows that when Crohn’s disease is located here, it tends to cause more penetrating or obstructive damage, which would have to be treated by surgery.”
The results of this study raise interesting questions about why smoking would affect different parts of the intestine in different ways.
“Fundamental differences in small and large bowel physiology may explain the differences in location of Crohn’s disease in smokers,” says Aldhous. “The effects of smoking should be further investigated, to understand why smoking has a differential effect on different parts of the bowel.”
Personally my worries skew more towards the link between alcohol and Crohn's!
Friday, November 23, 2007
Happy Thangsgiving to All you Chronies!
Tuesday was rough for me. B12 shot, blood drawn, Humira. Probably nothing compared to what some of you are going throuigh and what I have been through in the past.
Happy Thanksgiving to you all. Hope the Turkey treated you guys well and you could all eat at least some mashed potatoes. I felt well, ate twice and had a few beers with the family. Just a quick post. more later.
-Scott
Happy Thanksgiving to you all. Hope the Turkey treated you guys well and you could all eat at least some mashed potatoes. I felt well, ate twice and had a few beers with the family. Just a quick post. more later.
-Scott
Tuesday, November 20, 2007
Saw Dr. Shafran Today
I am staying the course and sticking with Humira, but we may up it to once a week instead of bi-weekly. I had blood drawn and got a B12 shot. While I am doing better than I was at this time last year, I am not out of the woods yet. It was so nice to see Dr. Shafran, Anita and the rest of the staff. He is such an awesome doctor. While I was there the Orlando Sentinel was there doing a story on Dr. Shafran and the photographer snapped pictures throughout my visit. Stay tuned for a link to the story on a new treatment Dr. Ira Shafran is presenting at a medical conference in Miami next week. I am excited for him. I got in a nice 3.4 mile run after my Doctor's appointment.
I read an obituary in the Orlando Sentinel for a man named Michael Cleary that died after a battle with Crohn's Disease. It definitely puts things in perspective and makes me want to get a handle on the stress and my Chrons. Anyways, Happy Thangsgiving to you all.
Don't sweat the small stuff.
- Scott Roy
I read an obituary in the Orlando Sentinel for a man named Michael Cleary that died after a battle with Crohn's Disease. It definitely puts things in perspective and makes me want to get a handle on the stress and my Chrons. Anyways, Happy Thangsgiving to you all.
Don't sweat the small stuff.
- Scott Roy
Monday, November 19, 2007
Scott Roy is Going to See Dr. Shafran
Going to the good doctor Shafran in Winter Park on Wednesday afternoon. Maybe he can give me a miracle cure so I can chow down on Thanksgiving. This is the time of year that I had a big Crohn's Flare up that landed me in the hospital in 2006. Hopefully the Humira keeps me away from there but stress at the new job is begging to differ. I am doing OK...standard Crohn's cramps. I haven't been to Dr. Shafran and am curious to see what is new with my treatment as well as catch up with his wonderful staff!
Monday, November 12, 2007
Is Humira Really working for me? Worst Night Sweats Ever
After lining my side of the bed with towels and having pretty much the worst night sweats I have ever had...my wife challenged me this AM with a statement that went something like this "I know the Dr. is holding out alot of faith on this Humira working but I don't know if it really is." I paused to reflect and have to wonder myself. The pain has been getting worse and the night sweats are back. I am fresh off a shot Friday night too...so usually I am doing OK at this point.
About this time last year (before I started this Crohn's Blog), I had to go on a liquid diet and ended up not being able to eat at Thanksgiving or Christmas). I lost about 12 pounds...that might be the only good part.....and spent about 5 days in the hospital.
Anyways, crazy week at work. Just took on responsibility for all of our marketing (was just doing online portion) and am working on 2008 business plans and budgeting. Fun times!!
Enough bitching, lets all have a positive week. -Scott
About this time last year (before I started this Crohn's Blog), I had to go on a liquid diet and ended up not being able to eat at Thanksgiving or Christmas). I lost about 12 pounds...that might be the only good part.....and spent about 5 days in the hospital.
Anyways, crazy week at work. Just took on responsibility for all of our marketing (was just doing online portion) and am working on 2008 business plans and budgeting. Fun times!!
Enough bitching, lets all have a positive week. -Scott
Saturday, November 10, 2007
Humira Shot for Crohn's Disease at 12:45 AM - Party Hard
Well i didn't get my Humira shot this week so after about 6 beers I got home just in time for Amy to poke a needle in my arm full of Humira. I felt like I was super relaxed but it really hurt for some reason. Oh well....2 more weeks until I get more Humira. We'll see how it goes. Keep your heads up gang...Things are going a bit better for me, but work stress and stress at home are still getting me good. Lets hope I avoid a flare-up
Thursday, November 8, 2007
Tips for Dealing with a Crohn's Disease Flare Up - Crohn's Disease Blog
Below are some good tips for dealing with Crohn's Disease Flare ups...mine is last. Please feel free to add your own tips or talk about how YOU deal with a Crohn's disease flare-up.
From Aaron: The greatest advice I have for those with Crohn's or Colitis is to keep your chin up and stay positive. Believe it or not, attitude can play a major role in coping with IBD. Although I was formally diagnosed with Crone's disease this morning (after a colonoscopy), I have experienced many symptoms for nearly two years. While fighting through the physical pain has been extremely difficult at times, I constantly remind myself that I won't let the disease hold me back. Like many other sufferers, I am only 18 years old. And I have no intention of simply giving in and sulking in self-pity. So next time IBD gets you down, try to keep a positive frame of mind. Remember that you have your whole life ahead, and you won't let IBD stop you from making the most of it!!! Any questions, reactions, etc?
From Kimberly: This may sound strange, but it works! Read a book on pain management during labor and child birth. The breathing techniques and focusing method discussed are a great method! When the flare up starts I start doing the breathing and distraction just like I was having a contraction.
Heat1 says: I try to visualize myself in my favorite place. A little island in Florida. I imagine myself there and have fun. It helps but try to be in a quiet area or it can be more stressful and that is NOT what you need!! Hope this helps you!!
Beau says: I find that cuddling with my dog is one of the great ways to be happy, but if my dog is not available or if I just don't want to for some reason I follow my other passion, studying War history. I know it might sound lame but I can get so lost in it that I never realize what's going on. So my best advice would be to find a passion, and pursue it when your sick.
Elease says: When my aunt, who has had Chron's for about 30 years has a bad day, she reads or draws to stay quiet and take her mind off it...or she will call a friend from church or a family member and have a chat about non-Crohn's stuff to help her relax.
Amy says: Whenever I get a flare up the first thing I do is lay down and relax for a while...sometimes the stress is just to much for me. If that doesn't workthen I cut out the foods that might be a problem, and stick to liquids and bland foods. I haven't had any real bad flare ups since i really first got it and that was 2 years ago though. But I find just relaxing and taking my mind off of it usually does the trick.
Tyler says: When I have a flare-up I like to play my guitar, I find it takes my mind off of the pain.
Susan says: I recommend writing in a diary. It feels good to get the thoughts down on paper and get them out of your body.
Randy says: One way I get over the flare ups of Crohn's is hunching over my knees. This really lessens the pains. I know its happened to me many times.
Scott says (me) - I generally go on a liquid diet to ease the workload on my bowels. I think getting plenty of rest is key (but I don't). I lay on the floor on my back...seems to help..maybe it just gets the pressure and tension off of my gut. I also have a prescription to percocet which not only helps with the pain (it's the only thing that truly works for me) but tends to constipate normal people....and slows down diahreah (I still don't know how to spell that word) for me.
From Aaron: The greatest advice I have for those with Crohn's or Colitis is to keep your chin up and stay positive. Believe it or not, attitude can play a major role in coping with IBD. Although I was formally diagnosed with Crone's disease this morning (after a colonoscopy), I have experienced many symptoms for nearly two years. While fighting through the physical pain has been extremely difficult at times, I constantly remind myself that I won't let the disease hold me back. Like many other sufferers, I am only 18 years old. And I have no intention of simply giving in and sulking in self-pity. So next time IBD gets you down, try to keep a positive frame of mind. Remember that you have your whole life ahead, and you won't let IBD stop you from making the most of it!!! Any questions, reactions, etc?
From Kimberly: This may sound strange, but it works! Read a book on pain management during labor and child birth. The breathing techniques and focusing method discussed are a great method! When the flare up starts I start doing the breathing and distraction just like I was having a contraction.
Heat1 says: I try to visualize myself in my favorite place. A little island in Florida. I imagine myself there and have fun. It helps but try to be in a quiet area or it can be more stressful and that is NOT what you need!! Hope this helps you!!
Beau says: I find that cuddling with my dog is one of the great ways to be happy, but if my dog is not available or if I just don't want to for some reason I follow my other passion, studying War history. I know it might sound lame but I can get so lost in it that I never realize what's going on. So my best advice would be to find a passion, and pursue it when your sick.
Elease says: When my aunt, who has had Chron's for about 30 years has a bad day, she reads or draws to stay quiet and take her mind off it...or she will call a friend from church or a family member and have a chat about non-Crohn's stuff to help her relax.
Amy says: Whenever I get a flare up the first thing I do is lay down and relax for a while...sometimes the stress is just to much for me. If that doesn't workthen I cut out the foods that might be a problem, and stick to liquids and bland foods. I haven't had any real bad flare ups since i really first got it and that was 2 years ago though. But I find just relaxing and taking my mind off of it usually does the trick.
Tyler says: When I have a flare-up I like to play my guitar, I find it takes my mind off of the pain.
Susan says: I recommend writing in a diary. It feels good to get the thoughts down on paper and get them out of your body.
Randy says: One way I get over the flare ups of Crohn's is hunching over my knees. This really lessens the pains. I know its happened to me many times.
Scott says (me) - I generally go on a liquid diet to ease the workload on my bowels. I think getting plenty of rest is key (but I don't). I lay on the floor on my back...seems to help..maybe it just gets the pressure and tension off of my gut. I also have a prescription to percocet which not only helps with the pain (it's the only thing that truly works for me) but tends to constipate normal people....and slows down diahreah (I still don't know how to spell that word) for me.
Tuesday, November 6, 2007
Crohn's Disease in NYC
Ahh, So I returned to the scene of my now infamous pants pooping site today. Unfortunately my favorite boxers weren't there (Click here if you have no idea what I am talking about). I was in New York City for ad:tech. My stomach was OK, but I am a bit worried about a blockage. I get my Humira shot in a few minutes. Thanks for all of your comments. I am teetering on the edge and somehow avoiding a flare up. I am determined to run a marathon in 2008 and am about to start training again. My goal is 8 miles by Jan 1 (at a 7:50/mile pace).
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
Stress has a Tremendous Impact on Crohn's
Stressin out over work, home life and money. I am a mess right now. Subsequently my Crohn's Disease is starting to Flare. It was a real bad day. Hopefully things turn around for me. Sorry for the short and lame post. The latest Humira shot hurt a bit. I am generallya VERY happy person...but latley I find my seslf slipping into what can only be described as depression.
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