Life with IBD

Accutane, also known as Isotretinoin, is a medication that is used to treat acne.  Accutane has many reported side effects.   It has been linked to bowel problems, including inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), ulcerative colitis, and Crohn’s disease.  In June 2009, the manufacturer of Accutane announced that it notified the FDA of its intent to discontinue the manufacture and distribution of Accutane in the United States.

Those who suffer from inflammatory bowel disease can suffer and face many challenges. However, the physical and emotional symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease can be managed with the proper information and planning.

One of the simplest methods of managing inflammatory bowel disease is to be conscious of one’s stress level. While stress is not a cause of the disease, maintaining a high-stress lifestyle can contribute to flare-ups of the symptoms. Relieve stress through low impact exercises, such as yoga or walking, but be certain not to push too hard, as the stress of rigorous exercise can contribute to the chance of a flare-up.

Maintaining social connections is also important, as a stable support network will help deal with the emotional toll of inflammatory bowel disease. It can be all too easy to isolate oneself because of the embarrassing symptoms and pain of IBD, but having close friends who can relate and empathize will provide support necessary for getting through the day with this difficult condition. By talking to others about the condition, it becomes less painful and alienating. Patients may seek out support groups to talk to others who have firsthand experience with inflammatory bowel disease.

One of the main tools available for dealing with inflammatory bowel disease is diet. By taking special care to eat mindfully and maintaining appropriate nutritional levels it is possible to remain relatively active despite inflammatory bowel disease and avoid malnutrition, a common concern for IBD sufferers. It is importamt to remain hydrated by drinking enough water but one can do double duty by choosing vegetable juices, which will contribute necessary vitamins and minerals. As for meals, a health combination of protein and carbohydrates is important to maintain and protect cells, as well as to reduce damage in the intestinal tract.

There are many steps to better living with inflammatory bowel disease, but the most important step is to be aware of one’s body and learn the signs of a flare-up. Discomfort from diarrhea and constipation may still occur, but need not get in the way of a full life.

For information about support group for those with inflammatory bowel disease visit our IBD support page.

Do you believe you or a loved one has been injured by Accutane®? Goldberg & Osborne can help.

The law firm of Goldberg & Osborne is dedicated to helping injured people nationwide and is currently accepting cases for Accutane® victims. For a FREE case evaluation, please call us toll-free at (800) 935-2770 or submit a short and simple online case form here. If you’ve developed side effects after taking Actos, please visit our Actos side effects web page.