Newly diagnosed

Just diagnosed today with Ulcerative Colitis via colonoscopy.  My symptoms were blood and mucus with every bowel movement, increased frequency, having to defecate shortly after eating and excess gas.

Doctor gave me a prescription for Lialda and something else (will have to see when they're filled).

Any advice from the old sufferers of this ailment?  I'm 27 years old, btw.  Thanks.

[TrudieC]

So sorry you are having to go start this journey.  Here is my advice:

- You must keep regular doctor appointments.  If you flare up again you get right back in so it gets handled as soon as possible.
- Watch your diet.  You may want try a food journal where you record what you eat and how you feel.  When you are in active disease food can affect you.  Some are bothered by dairy, gluten, spices, coffee, sugar and alcohol.  Probiotics have been proven beneficial.
- Educate yourself.  Your doctor is very busy.  The more you know about your disease the easier it is for you to get appropriate treatment.  
- Always take your meds as prescribed.  
- Take a good multi-vitamin with iron.  Drink a lot of water.  It is easy to get anemic or dehydrated.
- Ensure your diet contains enough magnesium and potassium.  If you get leg aches it can be from a lack of those nutrients.
- Keep immodium (anti-diarrhea) with you and take as needed.
- Find ways to eliminate stress from your life.  Stress can trigger a new flare up.  

Good luck and I hope you can keep this under control.