Peggy - medications

[Peggy]

I am a 42 year-old female diagnosed with collagenous colitis in January 2003 after suffering with diarrhea for over a year prior.

After being diagnosed by sigmoidoscopy I began taking Asacol (mesalamine) 8 x 400mg per day. The Asacol began working in late March 2003. I tapered the dosage dramatically after approximately 9 months of usage. In May 2004 I dropped the Asacol completely as I was only taking 1 per day and wanted to see if I could go without it altogether. In late June 2004 the diarrhea came back with a vengeance. I tried reinstating the Asacol, but even at 10 x 400mg per day I found no relief. I tried this dosage up until February 2005.

Late February 2005 I began on 6mg of Entocort (budesonide) and it took effect in less than two weeks.

Currently (as of May 2005) I take 3mg of Entocort and am trying to reinstate the Asacol yet again so I can drop the steroid.

I attempted the GF diet in early 2003 and found it WAY too difficult. I have never dieted in my life and this was one of the hardest things I have ever tried to do. I have a healthy respect for those that are able to follow this diet. I, personally, did not find any relief while on the diet, but I was only on it for two months.

I have very few food limitations. I avoid broccoli, cauliflower, chili beans - basically foods that make me gassy.

I find stress triggers my diarrhea and try to avoid it at all costs (both the stress and the diarrhea!).