Approximately one million teens and adults in the United States live with Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis-- two forms of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). These chronic conditions can dramatically impact quality of life. Difficult-to-discuss symptoms like uncontrollable diarrhea, abdominal pain, bloody stool, and others can make employment and everyday life difficult.Knowing about the diseases, state-of-the-art treatments, and ways to manage symptoms enable people with IBD to advocate for the care they need. Straight From the Gut charts the territory of successfully living with IBD:
- Finding the right diagnosis
- Getting state-of-the-art treatment
- Coping with prednisone
- Living with an ostomy
- Dealing with insurance and employment
- Managing relationships and fertility concerns
- Finding emotional support
- Identifying resources