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Part 2 · Getting treatment today · 4/22

Good habits

What to do, what to avoid, and when to worry.

Do

  • Get your vaccinations before a biologicFlu, pneumococcus, Covid, shingles, hepatitis B, HPV… Live vaccines (MMR, chickenpox, yellow fever) are given at least 4 weeks before treatment.
  • Keep track of your calprotectinAlways at the same lab, so the results can be compared with each other.
  • Have your stores measured every yearIron, B12, B9, vitamin D, zinc. See the sheet “Tiredness”.
  • Protect your skinSunscreen and check-ups with a dermatologist while on an immunosuppressant.
  • Have your surveillance colonoscopiesThey protect against colon cancer.
  • Claim your rightsIn France: ALD (long-term condition status, with 100% cover) and the afa's “Urgent toilet” card.
  • Prepare your appointmentsWrite down your symptoms and questions before the appointment.

Don't

  • Take ibuprofenAnti-inflammatories (NSAIDs) can trigger a flare. The habit: paracetamol.
  • Stop your treatment because you feel wellIt is the treatment that keeps you in remission.
  • Stay on cortisone for months, or stop it suddenlyIt helps out in a flare, nothing more (bones, weight, diabetes, eyes…). And it is always reduced gradually.
  • Take a medicine without mentioning itExample: allopurinol (Zyloric) with azathioprine is dangerous unless the dose is adjusted. Always tell the doctor and the pharmacist what treatment you are on.
  • SmokeWith Crohn's, smoking makes the disease worse and increases the risk of an operation.
  • Have a live vaccine without adviceYellow fever, MMR… should be avoided while on an immunosuppressant.
  • Block a severe flare with an anti-diarrhoealEspecially in UC: risk of a serious complication of the colon.
  • Believe in miracle curesNo diet or supplement replaces long-term treatment.

Warning signs

I keep an eye on it

Usual mild discomfort, slight tiredness, one or two more stools than usual.

I call my gastro

A flare that has been building for a few days (blood, pain, more stools), pain or swelling near the anus. Fever above 38.5 °C or chills while on an immunosuppressant: advice the same day.

Emergency

High fever with severe pain. Swollen belly with vomiting, no more wind or stools. Heavy bleeding or feeling faint. 6 or more bloody stools a day, especially with fever or a racing heart. Painful red eye, swollen calf.