Being sick sucks. One of the things people don’t realize about Crohn’s is how long flares last. People are familiar with the flu, so they know what it’s like to be down for a few days or weeks. A Crohn’s flare lasts months or years. Once the symptoms start, you typically give it at least a week or two before you talk to your doctor to be sure you’re not just having a rough few days. After that, there are tests, which also take a few weeks. Then, once the test results are in, you have to play with meds. Sometimes it’s tweaking dosage and sometimes it’s trying a new drug. You then usually need to wait at least two months to see if the new drug regimen is working. If it is, then you’re better. If it isn’t, you need to start all over again with a new drug. If none work and you’re in too bad of shape, then it’s surgery. However, even that isn’t a guarantee.
Even though I’m about six months ahead of the comics, I’m still in the flare that’s been the basis of The Crohn’s Saga. I’ve been sick for two years now and I’m actually due for my second surgery in a few weeks. I’ve hit the point that I don’t even remember what it’s like to feel good. I try not to think about it. I try to stay positive. But I also have to admit that it messes with me sometimes. Like I said, being sick sucks.