Worrisome burst of symptoms

I'm in my mid-twenties, and I was diagnosed about two years ago with mild ulcerative colitis ( I forget the exact terminology, but I'm fairly sure that when last checked, it was limited only to the lowest part of my colon). Currently, I'm on four asacol, three times a day, and while that was controlling things for a while, I've flared in the last month. I've stuck myself on a low residue diet, and have mostly diarrhea, currently. Symptoms like pain, fatigue, and cramping are usually fairly minimal, although I definitely will occasionally have a strong, cramping urgency, usually while I'm walking. What's worrisome, however, is the amount of blood in my stool. While I'm used to having fairly small amounts in the past, these have been much larger, with the usual occurrence being sitting down on the toilet, having one or two movements without apparent blood, then getting up, feeling a cramping sensation in my abdomen, usually stronger than anything I was experiencing beforehand, then sitting back down, and letting loose a fair quantity of dark bloody, fluffy-pile type stool. This is accompanied by pain and discomfort, which persists afterwards for a short while, usually under a minute. Unfortunately, I'm across the country from my GI, and while I'll be seeing him about two weeks from now, I'm concerned that I might need to get an appointment at my current location. Has anyone else experienced something similar, or has some idea of what I can expect. If I had symptoms like strong, ongoing pain or nausea, fever, or vomiting, I would definitely head for the local hospital, but I have had nothing of that order.

hi..quincy i have to ask y do u say run from the prednisone, i know they have side affacts but they can help alot

yes...what songlady said.
q

Songlady, you said

But generally, we need to watch out for doctors that prescribe prednisone as a "default" medication because they don't seem to be familiar with the newer and less dangerous medications.
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What are the choices before going on prednisone? I'm taking asacol (max dose) and rectal mesalamines nightly. If those don't work, what is next? Is there another option before prednisone? Thanks.

Thanks. So far, I have avoided prednisone even though it has been recommended by my doctor. I always ask to try Rowasa first even though doc doesn't really believe it helps me since I have UC throughout my entire colon.

I've been having difficulty getting out of this flare, so I wanted to see what the options are if this combo doesn't work. Guess I better do my research on Remicade...

Thanks again.

Obanaleddin-- it sounds like your UC is flaring. Having to return to the john right after you just got off it is typical frustrating evidence that the UC inflammation got worse. If you cannot see a doctor where you are now, it would probably be a good idea to buy some disposable undergarments (such as Depends) to wear while you're traveling. Hopefully, your own doctor will be available to help you soon; in the meantime, try to rest as much as possible and take a multivitamin daily to supplement your low residue diet-- also, be sure to keep yourself hydrated. / Old Hat (30 yrs with left-sided UC; presently in remission taking brandname Colazal)