Community Forum

Hey guys,

         So I've had UC for about 10 years now and for the most part I've been doing pretty good. I've always been kind of a worrier, but now my anxiety seems to be going through the roof. My UC is under pretty good control, but I do have bad days, especially when I'm really stressed out about school or an event. I'm in a doctoral graduate program, so my stress is high anyway, but my UC is making it so much worse. I'm beginning to have super high anxiety when I'm in situations where I can't leave (like a test) or in a situation where people would notice if I leave (like being a bridesmaid in a wedding). It’s starting to get real bad, and I don't want my anxiety to start to control my life. Usually in these situations if I feel bad, my anxiety makes me feel worse, and if I feel ok and start to think about using the restroom I start to feel bad. I was just wondering if anyone has gone on anti-anxiety medications to try to help them deal with their own anxiety or if people have some good ways they cope in situations like this. I’m due to go to my GI in about a week, but I don’t really feel comfortable talking to her. I just know I want to be able to live my life the way I’m intended to, and not to let my UC or anxiety hold me back. I appreciate you all taking the time to read my post and for any replies. I wish everyone nothing but the best.

 Reply posted for mucat25.

A large part of anxiety is the concern of what "someone" "might" think.

Life is too short to live in such fear of what others think, especially when you are dealing with a major health issue. If you realize that, most of your anxiety will disappear. 

I also had a similar problem. For me the anxiety was the worst part of the disease. I ended up going on 20mg of Paxil a day and it helped tremendously. And, like you, I'm also currently in college (doing a Psychology program), so the anxiety/stress is always high. Unfortunately, these programs aren't designed with people like us in mind :(

 Reply posted for mucat25.

Hello
I was in the same boat as you with too much going on inside my head - the biggest being the stress of managing Crohn's which mine is considered a serious status.  I have had a rough past 6 months and have finally asked for anti-anxiety medication from my Primary Care Physician.  It took us 3 drugs before I found the one that seems to be working the best for me.  I am actually taking a combo, Cymbalta I take daily and then another one to take more on a situational basis so if I am suddenly in a high anxiety situation I can take that to help give some extra relief.  The biggest challenge with them is that they make me tired so that is tough sometimes.  I was opposed to this option for many years (have had Crohn's for 20 years) but after the past few months of one thing after the other going on I finally said I am tired and I need a mental break.  You can only take so much and the high anxiety does not help symptoms.

I know this is a late reply to your posting but you can give these drugs a try and see if it helps.  When I got married i went on an anti-anxiety medication until it was over and then got off of them very easily (I forget which one it was) but it was one which was the least addictive at the time.

Best of luck!

 Reply posted for knowvak.

Thank so much to everyone for reading and replying. Just an update: I saw my GI and while my UC is under good control besides weight issues, she said I should get a primary doctor to talk about my anxiety issues. I found and saw a primary earlier this week and she decided to try some anti-anxiety meds to see how they would help. She prescribed 10mg /day of buspirone and I am currently in my 3 day of use. I'm not sure how its working yet, they say anti-anxiety meds take a week to a month of so to start working, but I really hope it helps with my anxiety issues. I am excited to get this issue taken care of so I can live out my life without as much worry. Thanks again for listening and helping, and good luck to you all.

 Reply posted for mucat25.

I may be a little late here but my doctor put me on anti anxiety medication just over a month ago at my request to help with the exact same symptoms.  I'm currently taking 25mg of Zoloft.  Took me about a week to get used to it but I think it is definitely helping in stressful situations.  I'm going back to see him in about a week and am going to ask if they can bump up the dosage just a little bit.

I would definitely ask your doctor about this.  I waited too long and now that I'm on it I wish I would have spoke up sooner.  

Good Luck!

 Reply posted for mucat25.

I know how you feel and I think there are a  few things you can do that doesn't mean popping yet another pill.

First, what do you enjoy, Yoga is a great outlet for me, even running.....adding some type of exercise can help calm and clear your mind.   Also, I recommend various hot teas, maybe a chamomile or peppermint.   Try a couple to see which works best.   

With regard to stressful situations in school, you can have special arrangements made in advance, perhaps extended time for a time-sensitive exam, bathroom privileges, etc.   Call your school advisors and see what they can arrange.  I think just knowing you aren't "stuck" could ease your mind, along with a hot cup of tea and a  brisk walk.   Lavender is also a great resource.   Maybe get a sachet for your car.  They even have sprays out (a little spritz in your hair)???   Could help....you may want to give it a try.

Good luck , best wishes
Lizzies Mom
 

 Reply posted for mucat25.

I originally wrote to this forum about the stress and anxiety having a bowel disease has on life. My Doctor had insisted that anxiety will not cause symptoms to flare up. For me that is far from what is the real world. I get stressed and my symptoms start. I finally started taking Ativan and I know it is a narcotic but an anti anxiety drug is what it took for me.
My IBD caused me to develop Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis which blocks the Bile Ducts. I can relate with your anxiety. I have worked for the same company for a very long time and they are understanding but it still is difficult to not know when a bad episode might start. Usually when an important meeting or day is planned I will stress myself into stomach pain. 
I am worn out from the pain. I have been looking for a way to find relief but there are few options. Having an auto immune disease is the worst thing anyone ever should have to deal with. I wish I had an answer because I get down sometimes because stress and anxiety just wears me out. Good Luck and I do not think it hurts to take anti anxiety medicine it helps me.