About IBD

When it comes to people with Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis serving in the military, the usual policy is that the two things are incompatible. The reason being that people living with an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) need care and treatments that are incompatible with being deployed. However, sometimes there are other considerations, as Dr Daniel Rausa describes. Dr Rausa was diagnosed with Crohn's disease while serving in the Navy, and he has advice for people who live with an IBD and want to serve or who want to pursue a medical career. He also describes why it's so important to follow up and stay on top of transition of care when leaving military service. Find Daniel Rausa, DO at: Twitter: https:/bit.ly/AIBD122

What if we knew which patients would have severe Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis? And which wouldn't? How about if we could tell which drug would work best in which patient? Knowing these things would change how inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is diagnosed and treated. Plus, more importantly: it would improve lives. Dr Andres Hurtado-Lorenzo, Vice President of Translational research and IBD Ventures at the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation explains biomarkers and how they may play into the future of how IBD is diagnosed, managed, and treated. Resources: Crohn's & Colitis Foundation:https://www.crohnscolitisfoundation.org/ IBD Plexus:https://www.crohnscolitisfoundation.org/research/current-research-initiatives/ibd-plexus/about RISK Study:https://www.crohnscolitisfoundation.org/research/current-research-initiatives/pediatric-risk-stratification IBD Ventures:https://www.crohnscolitisfoundation.org/research/grants-fellowships/entrepreneurial-investing/portfolio Olink: https://www.olink.com Foundation for the National Institutes of Health: https://www.fnih.org Genedata: https://www.com Glycominds: https://www.glycominds.com/blood-tests-1 PredictImmune:https://www.predictimmune.com/ Research: Honig G, Heller C, Hurtado-Lorenzo A. Defining the Path Forward for Biomarkers to Address Unmet Needs in Inflammatory Bowel Diseases. Inflamm Bowel Dis. 2020;26(10):1451-1462. doi:10.1093/ibd/izaa210. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7500521/pdf/izaa210.pdf Honig G, Larkin PB, Heller C, Hurtado-Lorenzo A. Research-Based Product Innovation to Address Critical Unmet Needs of Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Diseases. Inflamm Bowel Dis. 2021;27(Suppl 2):S1-S16. doi:10.1093/ibd/izab230. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8922161/pdf/izab230.pdf Kugathasan S, Denson LA, Walters TD, et al. Prediction of complicated disease course for children newly diagnosed with Crohn's disease: a multicentre inception cohort study. Lancet. 2017;389(10080):1710-1718. doi:10.1016/S0140-6736(17)30317-3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5719489/pdf/nihms923305.pdf Biasci D, Lee JC, Noor NM, et al. A blood-based prognostic biomarker in IBD. Gut. 2019;68(8):1386-1395. doi:10.1136/gutjnl-2019-318343. https://www.predictimmune.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Biasci-et-al-A-blood-based-prognostic-biomarker-in-IBD-Gut-2019.pdf de Bruyn M, Ringold R, Martens E, et al. The Ulcerative Colitis Response Index for Detection of Mucosal Healing in Patients Treated With Anti-tumour Necrosis Factor. J Crohns Colitis. 2020;14(2):176-184. doi:10.1093/ecco-jcc/jjz125. https://doi.org/10.1093/ecco-jcc/jjz125 Find Amber J Tresca at: com: http://aboutibd.com/ Verywell: https://www.verywell.com/ibd-crohns-colitis-4014703 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aboutIBD Twitter: https://twitter.com/aboutIBD Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/aboutibd/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/about_IBD/ Credits: Mix and sound design is by Mac Cooney: https://www.facebook.com/michaelandrewcooney Theme music, IBD Dance Party, is from ©Cooney Studio: https://michaelandrewcooney.bandcamp.com/track/ibd-dance-party-single

There aren't as many men who are vocal in the inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) space as there are women. Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis affect men as often as they do women, but fewer men seem comfortable being public about their disease.   That's why Carlos “CJ" Cabrera, who also goes by CJ Papuro, entered the IBD community after his diagnosis of Crohn's. He gives an overview of how difficult it was to be diagnosed as a US veteran using the Veterans Health Administration, his struggles with finding his way with nutrition, the ways in which IBD has affected him as a man, and his advice for other men.   Concepts discussed on this episode include: Athletic Greens — AG1: https://athleticgreens.com/ibdpod Fragmented Care and IBD: Outcomes in U.S. Veterans: https://ihpi.umich.edu/news/fragmented-care-and-ibd-outcomes-us-veterans The Incidence and Prevalence of Inflammatory Bowel Disease Among U.S. Veterans: A National Cohort Study: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3972034/ Maltodextrin, Modern Stressor of the Intestinal Environment: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6409436/ How IBD Affects Fertility in Men: https://www.verywellhealth.com/how-ibd-affects-fertility-in-men-4125878 How to Recognize and Diagnose Crohn's Disease in Men: https://www.verywellhealth.com/crohns-symptoms-male-5215367 Arthritis and Inflammatory Bowel Disease: https://www.verywellhealth.com/arthritis-and-inflammatory-bowel-disease-1941772 Should You Exercise If You Have IBD?: https://www.verywellhealth.com/exercising-with-ibd-4582068 Find CJ Papuro at: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/papuro Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/papurosmokes Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chill.ghost YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Papuro   Find Amber J Tresca at AboutIBD.com: http://aboutibd.com/ Verywell: https://www.verywell.com/ibd-crohns-colitis-4014703 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aboutIBD Twitter: https://twitter.com/aboutIBD Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/aboutibd/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/about_IBD/   Credits: Mix and sound design is by Mac Cooney: https://www.facebook.com/michaelandrewcooney Theme music, IBD Dance Party, is from Cooney Studio: https://michaelandrewcooney.bandcamp.com/track/ibd-dance-party-single   Episode transcript and more information at: https:/bit.ly/AIBD120    

Have you ever been out in public and needed a toilet — but there wasn't one available? This has happened to everyone who lives with an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD, Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis), which is why so many of us have “bathroom accident” stories. Needing to use the bathroom is a basic human need, but it's treated like an afterthought. That's where the Restroom Access Act comes into play: a law passed in several states that allows people to request access to a toilet when they live with certain conditions. There is no such law currently in California. That's hopefully going to change thanks to the efforts of Ashlyn Saltzburg and Kelly Silk. Ashlyn is a teenager living with IBD and Kelly is her mom. Their effort to get a law passed in California is nothing short of heroic. Learn about how they got started on this journey to have the Restroom Access Act passed in California, and how you can help. More information and a transcript: https://bit.ly/AIBD119 Concepts discussed on this episode: Athletic Greens AG1: https://athleticgreens.com/ibdpod How the Restroom Access Act Helps Those With IBD: https://www.verywellhealth.com/the-restroom-access-act-1942432 California Assembly Bill 1632: https://legiscan.com/CA/bill/AB1632/2021 Akilah Weber, Assmblymember, District 79: https://a79.asmdc.org/2021-2022-legislation Shervin Rabizadeh, MD, MBA: https://bio.cedars-sinai.org/rabizadehsx/index.html Find Amber J Tresca at: AboutIBD.com: http://aboutibd.com/ Verywell: https://www.verywell.com/ibd-crohns-colitis-4014703 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aboutIBD Twitter: https://twitter.com/aboutIBD Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/aboutibd/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/about_IBD/ Credits: Mix and sound design is by Mac Cooney: https://www.facebook.com/michaelandrewcooney Theme music, IBD Dance Party, is from ©Cooney Studio: https://michaelandrewcooney.bandcamp.com/track/ibd-dance-party-single

There are significant unmet needs for IBD patients that include pain control, sleep disturbances, anxiety, and depression. Some patients turn to medical cannabis for these symptoms. But is that a good idea, does it work, and what should patients and their doctors know about medical cannabis? To answer these questions and more, Amber talks to cannabis and IBD expert Dr Jami Kinnucan, who is a Senior Associate Consultant in the Section of Gastroenterology and Hepatology at the Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, Florida. Concepts discussed on this episode include: Athletic Greens — AG1: https://athleticgreens.com/ibdpod The Sherman Prize: https://shermanprize.org/ Hemp Production and the 2018 Farm Bill: https://www.fda.gov/news-events/congressional-testimony/hemp-production-and-2018-farm-bill-07252019 Sleep Specialists: Everything You Need to Know: https://www.verywellhealth.com/sleep-specialist-5221561 What You Should Know About CBD and Methotrexate: https://www.verywellhealth.com/cbd-oil-and-methotrexate-5095473 Cannabinoids: Benefits, Side Effects, Dosage, and Interactions: https://www.verywellhealth.com/cannabinoids-4847186 Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome: https://www.verywellhealth.com/cannabinoid-hyperemesis-syndrome-5072414 The Rome Criteria for Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): https://www.verywellhealth.com/the-rome-criteria-for-ibs-1941670 Canna Research Foundation: https://cannaresearchfoundation.org/ Medical Cannabis: https://www.crohnscolitisfoundation.org/complementary-medicine/medical-cannabis Kinnucan J. Use of medical cannabis in patients with inflammatory bowel disease. Gastroenterol Hepatol (N Y). 2018;14:598–601. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6366240/ Medical Marijuana for IBD: https://www.verywellhealth.com/medical-marijuana-for-ibd-5115675 How to Talk to Your Doctor About Marijuana: https://www.verywellhealth.com/talking-to-doctor-about-marijuana-use-5113836 Find Jami A. Kinnucan, MD at: Mayo Clinic: https://www.mayoclinic.org/biographies/kinnucan-jami-a-m-d/bio-20527092 Twitter: https://twitter.com/ibdgijami Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ibdgijami Find Amber J Tresca at: AboutIBD.com: http://aboutibd.com Verywell: https://www.verywell.com/ibd-crohns-colitis-4014703 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aboutIBD Twitter: https://twitter.com/aboutIBD Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/aboutibd/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/about_IBD/ Credits: Mix and sound design is by Mac Cooney: https://www.facebook.com/michaelandrewcooney Theme music, IBD Dance Party, is from Cooney Studio: https://michaelandrewcooney.bandcamp.com/track/ibd-dance-party-single

When you think of Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis, you might not think of physical therapy. But physical therapy and pelvic floor therapy can be integral to helping with function, pain, and having better bowel movements. To learn more, I connected with Nancy Cullinane, who is a Board-Certified Women's Health Clinical Specialist at Overlake Hospital and Clinics Outpatient Rehab in Washington State, and Christine Morgan, who is a Board-Certified Sports Clinical Specialist and the Director of Clinical Education at the Florida Southern College School of Physical Therapy. They describe the ways in which a physical therapist can help with some of the issues that crop up with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and how you can find a physical therapist to help you.   Concepts discussed on this episode include: Athletic Greens — AG1: https://athleticgreens.com/ibdpod The Sherman Prize: https://shermanprize.org/ Academy of Pelvic Health Physical Therapy: https://aptapelvichealth.org American Physical Therapy Association: https://www.choosept.com/ Herman & Wallace Pelvic Rehabilitation Institute: https://hermanwallace.com/   Social Media: Nancy Cullinane, PT, MHS, DPT, WCS on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nancy-cullinane-pt-mhs-dpt-wcs-405866b1/ FSC School of Physical Therapy on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fsc.dpt/ Overlake Medical Center & Clinics on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/overlakemedicalcenter   Find Amber J Tresca at: AboutIBD.com: http://aboutibd.com/ Verywell: https://www.verywell.com/ibd-crohns-colitis-4014703 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aboutIBD Twitter: https://twitter.com/aboutIBD Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/aboutibd/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/about_IBD/   Credits: Mix and sound design is by Mac Cooney: https://www.facebook.com/michaelandrewcooney Theme music, IBD Dance Party, is from Cooney Studio: https://michaelandrewcooney.bandcamp.com/track/ibd-dance-party-single   Episode transcript and more information at: https:/bit.ly/AIBD117

There are tools available to address the psychosocial impact of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Learn what's available to you from Dr Jessica Naftaly, a GI behavioral health fellow at the University of Michigan and Amy Bugwadia, higher education coordinator for Generation Patient, Teaching Assistant at Stanford University School of Medicine, ulcerative colitis patient, and key opinion leader in the IBD community. Concepts discussed on this episode include: The Rome Foundation Gastropsych Directory Psychology Today Find a Therapist Diaphragmatic Breathing [Video] With Megan Riehl, Psy.D. National Council of College Leaders Crohns & Colitis Foundation's Power of Two Program Find Jessica Naftaly, PhD on Twitter. Find Amy Bugwadia on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and at Generation Patient. Find Amber J Tresca at AboutIBD.com, Verywell, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram. Credits: Mix and sound design is by Mac Cooney. Theme music, "IBD Dance Party," is from ©Cooney Studio. Episode transcript and more information at https:/bit.ly/AIBD116

Whether in remission or not, the day-to-day of life with IBD can be challenging. Living with Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis, even when feeling well, might mean making lifestyle changes, going to doctor's appointments, and taking medications. Many people are diagnosed young, at a time when their friends aren't going through anything similar. To understand how people might deal effectively with these changes, Amber talks with Dr Sandra Quezada, a gastroenterologist who specializes in IBD at the University of Maryland Medical Center and Varada Srivastava, a Crohn's disease patient and biotechnology major who is also a 2022 Crohn's and Colitis Young Adults Network fellow Concepts discussed on this episode include: Crohn's and Colitis Young Adults Network Your Guide to Preparing for College with IBD IBD in College: 10 Easy Ways Students Can Manage Effects of Drinking Alcohol With IBD Find Sandra Quezada, MD on Twitter and at University of Maryland School of Medicine. Find Varada Srivastava on Instagram and at Crohn's and Colitis Young Adults Network (CCYAN). Find Amber J Tresca at AboutIBD.com, Verywell, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram. Credits: Mix and sound design is by Mac Cooney. Theme music, "IBD Dance Party," is from ©Cooney Studio. Episode transcript and more information at https:/bit.ly/AIBD115

Myths and misconceptions about IBD are common. Even amongst patients, there's things that take time and education to understand because the things that swirl around in the public consciousness are not always true. To help understand why we can't get rid of some of these common misconceptions, Amber Tresca is joined by gastroenterologist and IBDologist Siobhan Proksell, MD, and ulcerative colitis and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) patient advocate Molly Dunham-Friel, MPH of Better Bellies By Molly. Concepts discussed on this episode include: IBD Parenthood Project How Gut-Directed Hypnosis Helps IBS, IBD and Other GI Disorders What Is Perianal Crohn's Disease? Does Stress Cause Inflammatory Bowel Disease? Hypnotherapy as an IBS Treatment Option Find Siobhan Proksell, MD on Twitter, and at University of Miami. Find Molly Dunham-Friel, MPH at Better Bellies By Molly, Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Find Amber J Tresca at AboutIBD.com, Verywell, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram. Credits: Mix and sound design is by Mac Cooney. Theme music, "IBD Dance Party," is from ©Cooney Studio. Episode transcript and more information at https:/bit.ly/AIBD114

People who live with chronic illness don't get training on how to deal with health insurance. Yet it is a major part of living with conditions such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis. Plus, it not only affects patients living with IBD, but our doctors and other healthcare providers are also frustrated and overburdened with dealing with red tape such as prior authorizations. Dr Shubha Bhat, a gastroenterology clinical pharmacist at the Cleveland Clinic and Jaime Holland, who is a healthcare activist and Crohn's disease patient tell me how they handle health insurance complications and what we can do to change the system. Concepts discussed on this episode include: 13 Million Americans Per Year Skip Medicine Due to High Prescription Cost What You Need to Know About Coinsurance How Prior Authorization Works Tips to Get a Health Insurance Prior Authorization Request Approved IBD Insurance Checklist Understanding Health Insurance Find Shuba Bhat, PharmD on Twitter, LinkedIn, and Cleveland Clinic. Find Jaime Holland at Pretty Rotten Guts, Twitter, and Instagram. Find Amber J Tresca at AboutIBD.com, Verywell, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram. Credits: Mix and sound design is by Mac Cooney. Theme music, "IBD Dance Party," is from ©Cooney Studio. Episode transcript and more information at https:/bit.ly/AIBD113

People who live with Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis don't want to feel like a burden. They may feel guilty about changing or canceling plans. Sometimes, people with IBD may not even want to make plans in the first place. A strong support system can help overcome these issues and help patients manage their new normal. Dr Alexandra Fuss, a clinical health psychologist and an Assistant Professor of Psychiatry in the Department of Psychiatry at Yale School of Medicine and Brooke Abbott, ulcerative colitis patient, founder of The Crazy Creole Mommy Chronicles, and co-founder of IBDMoms tell me how they have productive conversations with friends and family surrounding IBD. Concepts discussed on this episode include: What to Know Before You Eat Out When You Have IBD How to Share a College Dorm Bathroom 7 Tips for Keeping IBD at Bay on Big Days Navigating Daily Life with IBD Find Alexandra Fuss, PhD on Instagram, LinkedIn and at Yale School of Medicine. Find Brooke Abbott at The Crazy Creole Mommy Chronicles, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Find Amber J Tresca at AboutIBD.com, Verywell, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram. Credits: Mix and sound design is by Mac Cooney. Theme music, "IBD Dance Party," is from ©Cooney Studio. Episode transcript and more information at https:/bit.ly/AIBD112

Ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease are complicated. There are choices to make along the treatment journey, which means that patients and their healthcare providers need to work together to find the right path. That's where shared decision-making comes into play. Healthcare providers can help patients learn about their options but patients need to speak up and help their doctors understand what they want from their treatment options, because it's not always obvious. To better understand shared decision-making in IBD, I speak to Dr Rajeev Jain, a gastroenterologist in private practice in Dallas, Texas and Caitlyn Smith, ulcerative colitis patient and editor at The Mighty. Concepts discussed on this episode include: IBD Parenthood Project Shared Decision-making in IBD IBD Surgery Shared Decision-Making Toolkit Shared Decision-Making: Benefits to Care Shared Decision-Making: Being Prepared American Gastroenterological Association GI Patient Center Find Rajeev Jain, MD on Twitter, Texas Digestive Disease Consultants. Find Caitlyn Smith at The Mighty, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram. Find Amber J Tresca at AboutIBD.com, Verywell, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram. Credits: Mix and sound design is by Mac Cooney. Theme music, "IBD Dance Party," is from ©Cooney Studio. Episode transcript and more information at https:/bit.ly/AIBD111

After being diagnosed with a form of IBD, it can be a real challenge to understand that treatment is ongoing. Which might mean taking medications for long periods of time. It also means adding in lifestyle changes such as focusing on nutrition and diet, sleep, exercise, stress reduction, and learning about complimentary treatments that might be helpful. There are a lot of barriers to getting treatment, though, including cost and access. Some people might not realize that not only can their healthcare team can help with accessing and understanding treatment choices, but that complimentary therapies have a valid place in the management of Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. Dr Badr Al-Bawardy, a gastroenterologist specializing in IBD and Assistant Professor of Medicine at Yale University School of Medicine and Tina Haupert, an ulcerative colitis patient, Certified Nutrition Coach, Functional Diagnostic Nutrition Practitioner, and founder of Carrots ‘N' Cake uncover the ways medication and lifestyle changes can meet in the middle to help people with IBD live a better quality of life. Concepts discussed on this episode include: How the Fecal Calprotectin Test Is Used in IBD Complementary Medicine with Dr. Badr Al Bawardy (YouTube) Causes and Risk Factors of Colon Cancer Why IBD Affects Your Sleep Yoga for Inflammatory Bowel Disease Acupuncture for Ulcerative Colitis (UC) Should You Exercise If You Have IBD? The IBD Anti-Inflammatory Diet Find Badr Al-Bawardy, MD on Twitter, Yale Medicine, and LinkedIn. Find Tina Haupert, FDN-P at Carrots 'N' Cake, Instagram, Facebook, and the Carrots 'N' Cake Podcast. Find Amber J Tresca at AboutIBD.com, Verywell, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram. Credits: Mix and sound design is by Mac Cooney. Theme music, "IBD Dance Party," is from ©Cooney Studio. Episode transcript and more information at https:/bit.ly/AIBD110

Setting goals is an important part of managing IBD. But after controlling symptoms: what other goals do patients have? They can be anything from being able to go up and down the stairs, to cooking a meal, to going back to an exercise program. Treating to target is a concept that helps in goal-setting. But patients might not be using this method with their clinicians. Dr Neilanjan Nandi, Associate Professor of Clinical Medicine and IBD specialist at the University of Pennsylvania, Perelman School of Medicine and Jacklyn Green, ulcerative colitis patient, writer, and IBDMom, dig deeper into the idea of treat to target from both sides of the equation. Concepts discussed on this episode include: How the Fecal Calprotectin Test Is Used in IBD What Is a C-Reactive Protein (CRP) Test? Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (Sed Rate) Overview The Effect of Nicotine on IBD A Gutsy Feeling Find Neilanjan Nandi, MD at FITWITMD.com, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Find Jacklyn Green at www.jacklynhopes.com, Instagram, and Twitter. Find Amber J Tresca at AboutIBD.com, Verywell, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram. Credits: Mix and sound design is by Mac Cooney. Theme music, "IBD Dance Party," is from ©Cooney Studio. Episode transcript and more information at https://bit.ly/AIBD109

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) affects our quality of life. What that means, however, is going to be different for each person. It may depend on many factors including disease severity, access to care, and support structure. The symptoms of ulcerative colitis such as diarrhea can prevent people from taking part in activities that aren't near a bathroom. Bleeding can cause anemia, leaving people feeling tired and unable to go about regular activities. Not to mention the effects on mental health, relationships, and finances. Danielle Gulden, ulcerative patient, ileostomate, and co-founder of Double Baggin' It and Dr Nana Bernasko, IBD Nurse Practitioner and Assistant Professor of Medicine in the Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology at Penn State Health, discuss how to manage the effects of IBD on everyday life. Concepts discussed on this episode include: Rectal Bleeding and Inflammatory Bowel Disease The Impact of UC: Quality of Life The Impact of UC: Complications Types of Ulcerative Colitis (UC) What Inflammatory Bowel Disease Pain Feels Like Can a Gastropsychologist Help With Inflammatory Bowel Disease? Find Dr Nana Bernasko on Instagram, LinkedIn, and Instagram, Tik Tok. Find Amber J Tresca at AboutIBD.com, Verywell, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram. Credits: Mix and sound design is by Mac Cooney. Theme music, "IBD Dance Party," is from ©Cooney Studio. Transcript available at: https://bit.ly/AIBD108

Once people understand that symptoms like ongoing diarrhea and bloody stools are not normal, they need a way to overcome embarrassment and talk their symptoms over with a health care provider. Having an open and honest conversation will help ensure a quicker diagnosis of ulcerative colitis and getting the right treatment. On this episode, Rasheed Clarke, ulcerative colitis and j-pouch patient and author of Three Tablets Twice Daily and Dr Christina Ha, an IBDologist at the IBD Center at Cedars Sinai, provide support and guidance to patients with IBD symptoms, newly diagnosed patients, and anyone who is looking for a new way to speak with their health care providers about IBD treatments. Concepts discussed on this episode include: Jimmy Kimmel Gets a Colonoscopy with Katie Couric (and Dr Ha) The Impact of UC: Quality of Life How to Find the Best Doctor for Ulcerative Colitis Types of Ulcerative Colitis (UC) Signs and Symptoms of Ulcerative Colitis Comparing 6 Biologic Drugs Used to Treat IBD Find Dr Christina Ha at Cedars-Sinai, LinkedIn, and Twitter. Find Rasheed Clarke at RasheedClarke.com, LinkedIn, and read Three Tablets Twice Daily. Find Amber J Tresca at AboutIBD.com, Verywell, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram. Credits: Mix and sound design is by Mac Cooney. Theme music, "IBD Dance Party," is from ©Cooney Studio. Transcript available: https://bit.ly/AIBD107

How is IBD different in kids than it is in adults? When should kids be transitioned from pediatric to adult care? What's next for IBD treatments? My guest is Dr Jeffrey Hyams, the head of the Division of Digestive Diseases, Hepatology and Nutrition at Connecticut Children's, and a Professor of Pediatrics at the University of Connecticut School of Medicine. He provides a historical perspective on the treatment of IBD and is able to highlight how therapies have advanced over the last 30 years. He also gives some ideas about what's on the horizon for IBD treatments and what gives him hope for the future. Concepts discussed on this episode include: How IBD Affects Growth in Kids and Teens Managing Ulcerative Colitis in Children Bradley S. Jerson, PhD, Pediatric Psychologist, who appeared on Episode 77, Episode 78, and Episode 99 Comparing 6 Biologic Drugs Used to Treat IBD Find a transcript and more at: https://bit.ly/AIBD106 Find Amber J Tresca at AboutIBD.com, Verywell, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram. Credits: Mix and sound design is by Mac Cooney. Theme music, "IBD Dance Party," is from ©Cooney Studio.

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD, Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, and indeterminate colitis) is being diagnosed in young people with greater frequency. Research on how to treat pediatric patients, and indeed how to prevent IBD in the first place, is still lacking. What's not in short supply is the strength and resilience shown by pediatric IBD patients and their families. Meet Brooke, a pediatric patient at Connecticut Children's Hospital who credits her dedicated IBD team with her ability to live a life filled with summer camp, dance, and tennis lessons, without the symptoms of ulcerative colitis. Concepts discussed on this episode include: About IBD Podcast Episode 27 – Welcome to Camp Oasis Why Clinical Remission Is Not the Goal in IBD Avoiding Dehydration Find Amber J Tresca at AboutIBD.com, Verywell, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram. Credits: Mix and sound design is by Mac Cooney. Theme music, "IBD Dance Party," is from ©Cooney Studio. Transcript and more information available at: https://bit.ly/AIBD105

Did you know that being diagnosed with ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease is a disqualifying condition to serve in the United States military? However, it seems that it's not always an automatic reason for discharge. Lt Colonel Joshua Nelson was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis and needed to have ileostomy surgery. It cast into question his future as a pilot in the Air Force Reserve. Learn his story of how he worked with his medical team in order to keep doing the job he loves, his advice for others like him, and tips on flying that any ostomate can use. Concepts discussed on this episode include: Pseudopolyps in IBD

Ulcerative colitis surgery is sometimes viewed as the last stop for treatment but it can be a good option to treat inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Dr. Vikram Reddy, Division Chief of Yale Medicine, Colon and Rectal Surgery, answers questions about j-pouch surgery including how patients feel about it, how he manages his patients after surgery, what complications might occur, and why surgery for ulcerative colitis is complicated and nuanced. Transcript and more information at: https://bit.ly/AIBD103 Concepts discussed on this episode include: Yale New Haven Health Digestive Health Service What's It Like To Have A J-Pouch? Do You Need A Colorectal Surgeon or Gastroenterologist? Overview of J-Pouch Surgery Ulcerative Colitis Surgery Find Vikram B. Reddy, MD, PhD at Yale Colon and Rectal Surgery. Find Yale New Haven Hospital at Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook, and Yale New Haven Hospital. Find Amber J Tresca at AboutIBD.com, Verywell, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram. Credits: Mix and sound design is by Mac Cooney. Theme music, "IBD Dance Party," is from ©Cooney Studio.

IBD is not a condition that is easy to diagnose or treat. People who live with Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis have needs that include guidance on nutrition. Diet is notoriously difficult to study but some research is starting to be done. Dannielle Jascot, MS, CNS, CDN, certified nutritionist and IBD patient talks over the recent results of the DINE-CD study, which compared the Specific Carbohydrate Diet and the Mediterranean Diet. Episode page and transcript: https://bit.ly/2YIaZXk Concepts discussed on this episode include: The Dine-CD Study and discussion of the results Local Crohn's and Colitis Foundation Chapters Buy Tickets to the Bottoms Up Event Find Dannielle Jascot on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Find Amber J Tresca at AboutIBD.com, Verywell, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram. Credits: Mix and sound design is by Mac Cooney. Theme music, "IBD Dance Party," is from ©Cooney Studio.

What should people who live with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) eat? What diet plans are available? Barbara Olendzki, the Director of the Center for Applied Nutrition and an Associate Professor at the University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, helped developed the inflammatory bowel disease anti-inflammatory diet (IBD-AID). The IBD-AID is currently being studied in pregnant people in the MELODY Trial. Barbara gives the lowdown on the IBD-AID, the MELODY Trial, and how and why she got started in the nutrition field. Concepts discussed on this episode include: The MECONIUM Study (Exploring MEChanisms Of disease traNsmission In Utero through the Microbiome The MELODY Trial Anti-Inflammatory Diet for IBD (IBD-AID) Find the University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School Center for Applied Nutrition on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Find Amber J Tresca at AboutIBD.com, Verywell, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram. Credits: Mix and sound design is by Mac Cooney. Theme music, "IBD Dance Party,” is from ©Cooney Studio.

How do your pets help you with your IBD? I speak to Meredith Mangold, "The Bowel Battling Badass,” about the role her dogs have played in her life. She became seriously ill with ulcerative colitis, which progressed into a rare complication called toxic megacolon. As her journey with IBD progressed, she eventually needed colectomy surgery, and has since been diagnosed with other immune-mediated conditions. Her two dogs, however, have become a big part of her advocacy work and they help her manage the pain and loneliness that come with chronic illness. Concepts discussed on this episode: Toxic megacolon CT Scan ileus Extra-intestinal Manifestations of IBD Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome Steroid-Induced Osteoporosis Find Meredith Mangold of The Bowel Battling Badass at Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Find Meredith Mangold of The Bowel Battling Badass at Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Find Amber J Tresca at AboutIBD.com, Verywell, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram. Credits: Mix and sound design is by Mac Cooney. Theme music, "IBD Dance Party,” is from ©Cooney Studio.

The back to school period is already a time of so much change but once again in this pandemic, parents and school systems are also facing difficult choices. The experiences of families during the pandemic has been diverse, which means that individual needs need to be addressed. But how do we manage that? Dr Brad Jerson Pediatric Psychologist in the Division of Digestive Diseases, Hepatology, and Nutrition at Connecticut Children's, puts some framing around these issues and how we might approach them. Topics discussed include making the decision to go back to school in the building, 504 plans for kids with digestive conditions, and helping kids to transition to school in a difficult atmosphere. Concepts discussed on this episode: 8 Tips to Help Kids With Special Needs Adjust to a New School Year What to Do When Your Child or Teen Doesn't Want to Go Back to School What Should Parents Know About the Delta Variant, Kids and Back to School? How to Check On Your Child's Mental Health Find Dr Brad Jerson on Twitter and at Connecticut Children's. Find Amber J Tresca at AboutIBD.com, Verywell, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram. Credits: Mix and sound design is by Mac Cooney. Theme music, "IBD Dance Party,” is from ©Cooney Studio.

This is the second part of my conversation with Kathleen Nicholls, author of "Go Your Crohn Way: A Gutsy Guide to Living with Crohn's Disease” and "My Flare Lady: A Handbook for Today's (Diseased) Dame.” Hear the first part in Episode 97, where Kathleen tells us about her Crohn's disease diagnosis and how blogging became the way she processes her disease journey. We talk about how to answer when people ask us how we're doing. Which leads to another topic, and that's how providers can ask patients about whether or not they want to pursue parenthood. Kathleen also gives blogging tips, including a hard truth, and offers advice to anyone who is newly diagnosed. However, I think her wisdom is important for long-term patients as well. Buy Kathleen's Books: Go Your Crohn Way: A Gutsy Guide to Living with Crohn's Disease My Flare Lady: a handbook for today's (diseased) dame Find Kathleen Nicholls on YouTube, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and on her web site, KathFantastic.com. Find Amber J Tresca at AboutIBD.com, Verywell, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram. Credits: Mix and sound design is by Mac Cooney. Theme music, "IBD Dance Party,” is from ©Cooney Studio.

Life with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) brings challenges and many life changes but it can also sometimes bring unexpected opportunities. Kathleen Nicholls, author of "Go Your Crohn Way: A Gutsy Guide to Living with Crohn's Disease” and "My Flare Lady: a handbook for today's (diseased) dame” was diagnosed with Crohn's disease in her 20s. She started a blog as a way to process her disease journey. She was stunned when people started reading it and when publishers became interested. Two books later, she shares the lessons she learned along the way. Buy Kathleen's Books: Go Your Crohn Way: A Gutsy Guide to Living with Crohn's Disease My Flare Lady: a handbook for today's (diseased) dame Find Kathleen Nicholls on YouTube, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and on her web site, KathFantastic.com. Find Amber J Tresca at AboutIBD.com, Verywell, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram. Credits: Mix and sound design is by Mac Cooney. Theme music, "IBD Dance Party,” is from ©Cooney Studio.

The patient advocacy space is lacking the voices of men and especially men of color. The result is that the IBD community is not diverse enough to provide the kind of support that they need. Jordan McConnell, the founder of Crohn's Veteran, is looking to change the dynamics of the online IBD space. Jordan served in the military and was eventually discharged due to his Crohn's disease. It was a shock and changed his career plans unexpectedly. His disease journey showed him that he needed to be the change and he developed his podcast and his brand to support men and the larger IBD community. Concepts discussed in this episode: Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) Military Entrance Processing Stations (MEPS) How to Prepare Yourself for Ileostomy Surgery Parts of the Small Intestine Find Jordan McConnell on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram. Find Crohn's Veteran on YouTube, Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram, Twitch, and on their web site, Crohn's Veteran. Find Amber J Tresca at AboutIBD.com, Verywell, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram. Credits: Mix and sound design is by Mac Cooney. Theme music, "IBD Dance Party,” is from ©Cooney Studio.

What is the next innovation in the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)? Is it the microbiome? Stem cells? Or, is it the emerging field of bioelectric medicine? IBD is a complicated disease to treat and can bring complications and other, related conditions. The problem is the immune-mediated nature of the disease and how it affects the entire body. For Kelly Owens, who lives with Crohn's disease, bioelectric medicine has bumped her into remission and changed her life in several ways. Today she goes by "Vagus Nerve Girl” because she had a device implanted in her chest that stimulates her vagus nerve. For her, this treatment has been a resounding success. Episode page and transcript can be found at: https://aboutibd.com/?p=1984 Concepts discussed in this episode: TED Talk: How electricity could replace your medications - Neurosurgeon Kevin Tracey Discovery and Functions of Acetylcholine What Is Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS)? Find Kelly Owens on Twitter, Facebook,  and Instagram and on her blog, Vagus Nerve Girl. Find Amber J Tresca at AboutIBD.com, Verywell, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram. Credits: Mix and sound design is by Mac Cooney. Theme music, "IBD Dance Party,” is from ©Cooney Studio.

Motherhood comes in all shapes and sizes. The intersection of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and motherhood is often left out of the discussion and single motherhood and IBD is pretty much ignored altogether. That's why I asked my close friend and co-founder of IBDMoms, Brooke Abbott of The Crazy Creole Mommy Chronicles, to tell me about her challenges and her successes living with IBD, a j-pouch, and being a single mom of a young son. Concepts discussed in this episode: What Are the Five Love Languages? An Overview of Asacol (Oral Mesalamine) How Does Implicit Bias Influence Behavior? Black Women Suffer Most From Restrictive Reproduction Policies, Study Shows Racial Disparities in Maternal Health May Be at a Pivot Point How Prince Shook Up the Music Industry Motherhood Unplugged on Lights, Camera, Crohn's Complete show notes and transcript found at https://aboutibd.com/?p=1965. Find Brooke Abbott on Twitter, Facebook,  and Instagram and on her blog, The Crazy Creole Mommy Chronicles. Find IBDMoms on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram Find Amber J Tresca at AboutIBD.com, Verywell, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram. Credits: Mix and sound design is by Mac Cooney. Theme music, "IBD Dance Party,” is from ©Cooney Studio.

It's one thing to talk to your physicians about becoming pregnant when you live with ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease. But what about  getting the benefit of experiences from the mothers who have been through a pregnancy, birth, and breastfeeding journey? Former news anchor and current blogger and Crohn's patient Natalie Hayden gives her experiences with pregnancy and receiving biologics, as well as how she has participated in research during her pregnancies and the benefits it offers her family. Concepts discussed in this episode: What is Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction? An Overview of Sacroiliac Joint Pain IBD Parenthood Project Mother to Baby Studies - Crohn's Disease Mother to Baby Studies - Ulcerative Colitis Maternal-Fetal Medicine Specialist What Is Colostrum? Motherhood Unplugged on The PIANO Registry Complete show notes and transcript found at https://aboutibd.com/2021/05/16/about-ibd-podcast-episode-93---motherhood-unplugged-with-natalie-hayden/ Find Natalie Hayden, MD on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and at Lights, Camera, Crohn's. Find IBDMoms on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram Find Amber J Tresca at AboutIBD.com, Verywell, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram. Credits: Mix and sound design is by Mac Cooney. Theme music, "IBD Dance Party,” is from ©Cooney Studio.

We used to be told that women with IBD couldn’t have children. We were also told people with IBD shouldn’t have children. The truth is this: women with IBD get pregnant and have healthy pregnancies and babies. We have more evidence and guidance than ever before. Gastroenterologist Dr Jill Gaidos, Associate Professor of Medicine in the section of Digestive Diseases and the Director of Clinical Research for the Yale Inflammatory Bowel Diseases Program discusses the finer points of pregnancy and IBD. When to seek help for fertility, what medications should be continued in pregnancy, and the risk of passing on IBD to children.  Concepts discussed in this episode: The PIANO Registry Conversations with Women in GI Updates on the Safety of Using Newer IBD Medications during Pregnancy Find Jill Gaidos, MD on Twitter and at Yale Health. Find Amber J Tresca at AboutIBD.com, Verywell, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram. Credits: Mix and sound design is by Mac Cooney. Theme music, "IBD Dance Party,” is from ©Cooney Studio.

Hey, it's Amber. I want to tell you about my limited podcast series, Healthcare Disparities in IBD. IBD used to be thought of as a Western disease. Something that happened in developed countries like the United States, Canada, the UK, and Australia. IBD was also thought to mainly affect White people and people of Jewish heritage. However, these demographics are changing, and IBD is now considered a global disease.[1] A harmful and pervasive misconception is that IBD does not affect people of various ethnic and cultural backgrounds. Minority patients are sometimes told that they can't have an IBD because they are of African, Latinx, Native American, or Asian descent. This leads to a delay in diagnosis and care. In the setting of IBD, which is difficult to treat, this can lead to significant complications that negatively affect every aspect of a person's life. In this limited series, we explore the ways in which the healthcare system is underserving minority and LGBTQ patients who live with an IBD. We cover the spectrum of this issue including the lack of research in minority populations, how cultural ideas around nutrition affects patients, how patients of color can be better supported, and how legislation can play a role. As a long-term IBD patient myself, it's my goal to help physicians, industry, and legislators understand how inequalities affect the IBD community and what they should be doing to improve patient care. Subscribe to Healthcare Disparities in IBD wherever you listen to podcasts. [1]Molodecky NA, Soon IS, Rabi DM, et al. Increasing incidence and prevalence of the inflammatory bowel diseases with time, based on systematic review. Gastroenterology. 2012;142:46-e30. doi:10.1053/j.gastro.2011.10.001 Credits: Healthcare Disparities in IBD is written, produced, and directed by Amber Tresca. Theme music, mix, and sound design is by Cooney Studio.

Have you ever seen a person who lives with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in a movie or TV show? If so: was the depiction positive or negative? My guest is actor, writer, and filmmaker Derek Mari. Derek lives with Crohn's disease and his IBD journey  inspired him to create a story that explores the way people cope with living with a chronic illness. He has already filmed a short film, entitled "Crohnie," which was positively received at several film festivals (before the pandemic shut everything down). Derek's next project is a full-length feature film with a main character who lives with Crohn's disease. Loosely autobiographical, it will examine the journey to acceptance of life with a chronic illness, and show how that life can be full and filled with success.  Learn more about Derek and his Crohn's story, as well as how you can get involved in the crowdfunding program to get this film made. Find Crohnie Movie on Vimeo,  Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Find Derek Mari on Vimeo, Twitter, and Instagram. Find Amber J Tresca at AboutIBD.com, Verywell, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram. Credits: Mix and sound design is by Mac Cooney. Theme music, "IBD Dance Party,” is from ©Cooney Studio.

Telling your Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis story is powerful. It can be freeing but it can also come with some unexpected side effects. Welcome back Rosanne Mottola, who originally intended to talk over receiving her second dose of the Pfizer BioNtech COVID-19 vaccine. She told her ulcerative colitis story and about receiving her first dose on Episode 87, "COVID-19 Vaccination With UC Patient Rosanne Mottola." She gives her experience on her second dose, how it affected her, and what her family's plans are now that she's vaccinated. Additionally, Rosanne had another part of her journey that she wanted to share. She listened to her first About IBD episode (something a lot of guests don't actually do), as did her family. Reflecting on her ulcerative colitis journey brought things back in a fresh way. She tells me how revisiting some parts of her life in this way was both troubling and healing. It's an important part of the disease journey, especially for those who tell their story publicly, that doesn't often get discussed. Concepts discussed on this episode: Clostridium Difficile Infection With Inflammatory Bowel Disease Dependent Coverage for Young Adults CDC: COVID Vaccine Doses Can Be Spaced Up to 6 Weeks Apart You Got Your COVID-19 Vaccine. Now What? CDC: Fully Vaccinated People Don't Need to Quarantine After COVID-19 Exposure Yes, Social Distancing Does Lower Your Chance of Contracting COVID-19 Here's Why Your Symptoms May Be Worse After Your Second COVID-19 Shot 5 Ways To Prepare for Your COVID-19 Vaccination   Find Rosanne Mottola on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Find Amber J Tresca at AboutIBD.com, Verywell, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram. Credits: Mix and sound design is by Mac Cooney. Theme music, "IBD Dance Party,” is from ©Cooney Studio.

Living with one disease is bad enough, but living with two adds more than two times the complexity. As a young man, Aaron Blocker was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease after years of coping with strange and seemingly disconnected signs and symptoms. He continued to have problems which resulted in two hip replacements that were blamed on prednisone. However, after one of those hip replacements became dislocated, Aaron went looking for more answers and wound up suspecting that he also had an ultra-rare condition called hypophosphatasia. Concepts discussed on this episode: Osteonecrosis (Avascular Necrosis) Explained What Is Alkaline Phosphatase? Soft Bones, Inc National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD) Ultra-rare disease diagnosis is an uphill battle Find Aaron Blocker on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Find Amber J Tresca at AboutIBD.com, Verywell, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram. Credits: Mix and sound design is by Mac Cooney. Theme music, "IBD Dance Party,” is from ©Cooney Studio.

During times of stress, our personal relationships may suffer. In the pandemic, we are finding ourselves spending a lot of time with those in our households, and for couples, that can start to take a toll. Certified sex educator Kait Scalisi, founder of Passion By Kait, shares her knowledge and experience as a neuroscientist, public health professional, and couples' counselor to help us understand how to better manage our relationships during the pandemic and beyond. Concepts discussed on this episode: Sexy Truth or Dare Pick A Stick How to Be a Good Partner During Quarantine How to Keep the Romance Alive Amid the Coronavirus Pandemic 3 Fun Sex Ideas for Couples—That You Can Try Tonight Mindful Sex Practices Sexy Conversation Starter Kit Find Kait Scalisi, founder of Passion By Kait, on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, YouTube, and Pinterest. Find Amber J Tresca at AboutIBD.com, Verywell, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram. Credits: Theme music, "IBD Dance Party,” is from ©Cooney Studio.

People with IBD and other chronic conditions have questions about receiving the COVID-19 vaccination. Rosanne Mottola works at a hospital and was therefore eligible to receive a vaccination through her employer. Rosanne gives her experiences and takeaways as a "mild to moderate" ulcerative colitis patient and how she made the decision to receive the SARS-CoV-2 vaccine. She offers some great advice about how the internet may skew our perception of what IBD life is like, and because of her background, she's a wonderful resource for people living with IBD. Concepts discussed on this episode: An Overview of C. Diff Can Immunocompromised People Safely Receive the COVID-19 Vaccine? An Overview of Pfizer's COVID-19 Vaccine Find Rosanne Mottola on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Find Amber J Tresca at AboutIBD.com, Verywell, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram. Credits: Mix and sound design is by Mac Cooney. Theme music, "IBD Dance Party,” is from ©Cooney Studio.

Did an IBD diagnosis change the direction of your life? For Danielle Golden and Joe Teeters, being diagnosed as a young adult had a profound influence on their lives. The plans they had for their lives were derailed, but they only met, formed a strong friendship, and founded Double Baggin' It because of their IBD. Learn more about their disease journeys, how they met, and how they use humor to raise awareness of IBD and ostomy life both inside and outside the IBD community. Further Reading: Pre-Existing Condition—What It Is & Why It’s a Big Deal Dependent Coverage for Young Adults Proctectomy Surgery for Inflammatory Bowel Disease How to Prepare Yourself for Ileostomy Surgery Leading Charities and Organizations for Ostomy Surgery Find Double Baggin' It at Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. Find Amber J Tresca at AboutIBD.com, Verywell, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram. Credits: Mix and sound design is by Mac Cooney. Theme music, "IBD Dance Party,” is from ©Cooney Studio.

What does it mean to act with intention? The pandemic altered the course of our year and divorced us from our intentions. However, there were learnings that we can build on to create a better, more inclusive, and informed IBD community. In this mini-episode, I share my thoughts on how the year affected me and how I plan to move forward in 2021 by getting back to my intentions. Find Amber J Tresca at AboutIBD.com, Verywell, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram. Theme music, "IBD Dance Party,” is from ©Cooney Studio.

From the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, people with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) have had many questions. Now that vaccines against the virus are becoming available, people living with Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis need even more information in order to make decisions. I asked Dr David Rubin, Chief of the Section of Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Nutrition and the Co-Director of the Digestive Diseases Center at The University of Chicago Medicine to answer some of these initial questions about the first COVID-19 vaccines (manufactured by Pfizer and Moderna). Topics discussed on this episode include: How vaccines work How mRNA works How IBD medications affect the immune system IBD medications and their potential effect on COVID-19 vaccination When we'll have more information about COVID-19 vaccines and IBD Why side effects with vaccines are expected and what they mean Key Quotes: The first thing is to remember that inflammatory bowel disease itself is a condition where in almost all situations, the immune system is overactive. So having Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis is not a situation where you're immune deficient. So IBD patients in all the analyses during COVID have not actually been found to be at increased risk for getting infected, or at increased risk for developing COVID as having just because they have Crohn's or colitis or have an ostomy or have a j pouch. The messenger RNA is degraded within a couple days it's out of your system doesn't hang around. It doesn't ever enter the nucleus of cells, it doesn't become a permanent part of your genetic material in your body. And therefore that's why it is thought to be extremely safe. But I want to make it clear to everyone that they didn't just decide to do this in February, March. This was something that actually was in development, it just got pushed through because of the critical nature of the pandemic. ... there are no data to say that vaccination triggers IBD. And it's been looked at carefully in many studies. And there's no data to show that getting a vaccine triggers a relapse of your IBD. And the newer vaccines that we're talking about here, will not do that either. ...we don't know for sure yet is whether you'll have impaired ability to mount a protective immunity at the same level as if you weren't on therapy. But that doesn't mean you won't develop any immunity. And in fact, it's possible that you'll develop the same immunities to general population because the messenger RNA vaccine is a completely new mechanism. Dr Rubin's Tweets and Tweetorials: "I've created a thread that summarizes the statements from the #IOIBD global expert panel about management of #IBD during #COVID19." https://threadreaderapp.com/thread/1247526583985823749.html "Here are my thoughts and a few updates about #SARSCoV2 vaccines, and also about implications for our #IBD patients. A tweetorial in 20 parts." https://threadreaderapp.com/thread/1333972549848469508.html "Terrific @US_FDA presser this morning. The agency has its origins in SAFETY and then EFFICACY became part of their regulatory pathway. Both Director Hahn @SteveFDA and career scientist Dr. Peter Marks @FDACBER used the language "safety and efficacy" (in that order). IMPORTANT." https://twitter.com/IBDMD/status/1337771896721563655 Further Reading: Understanding How Vaccines Work How mRNA Vaccines Work Understanding and Explaining mRNA COVID-19 Vaccines How the Pfizer-BioNTech Vaccine Works (NYT: Paywall) GI Physicians Urge COVID-19 Vaccines for All IBD Patients COVID-19 Vaccines: What IBD Patients & Caregivers Need to Know Getting a COVID-19 Vaccine: What to Know If You’re Immunocompromised Expect Mild Side Effects From COVID-19 Vaccines, CDC Advisory Group Says Doctors for America COVID Vaccine FAQ Toolkit Scholarly Publications: Winter is coming! Clinical, immunological, and practical considerations for vaccinating patients with IBD during the COVID pandemic COVID-19 vaccinations in patients with inflammatory bowel disease Safety and immunogenicity of the ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 vaccine against SARS-CoV-2: a preliminary report of a phase 1/2, single-blind, randomised controlled trial Find David T. Rubin, MD at The University of Chicago Medicine, Twitter, Rubin Lab, Rubin's Reflections (Blog), and Cornerstones Health. Find Amber J Tresca at AboutIBD.com, Verywell, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram. Credits: Mix and sound design is by Mac Cooney. Theme music, "IBD Dance Party,” is from ©Cooney Studio.

For many of us who live with a form of IBD, being a performer seems like it would be impossible. Some of the problems include needing a job that provides health insurance, the stress of auditions, and being healthy enough to perform onstage. Justin Baker, however, has found a way to make it work for him as he lives with Crohn's disease and ankylosing spondylitis (a form of degenerative arthritis that's associated with IBD). Justin is an actor, a photographer, and a clown. He tells me how he manages stress, how empathy informs his work and his life, and how not having health insurance led to emergency surgery for his Crohn's disease. Concepts discussed in this episode: Ankylosing Spondylitis "Find the Pony" Camp Esperanza Find Justin Baker, actor, on Acts4Food, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and Instagram. Find Justin Baker, photographer, on Photo-Baker.com and Instagram. Find "You Don't Look Sick: A Documentary Series," on Facebook and Instagram. Find Amber J Tresca at AboutIBD.com, Verywell, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram. Credits: Mix and sound design is by Mac Cooney. Theme music, "IBD Dance Party,” is from ©Cooney Studio.

Crohn's and Colitis Awareness Week is full of events that aim to raise funds and understanding of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). One of these is Gaming4Guts, a gaming marathon to raise funds for the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation. Participants stream over Twitch during the 72-hour event but they have also formed a community, keeping in contact year-round on the Gaming4Guts Discord server. Kenzie, John, and Mark from Gaming4Guts sat down with me to talk about their personal connections to IBD, the evolution of Gaming4Guts, and what their goals are this year. Donate to Gaming4Guts on Tiltify. Concepts discussed in this episode: Indeterminate Colitis Pott Puffy Tumor Exclusive Enteral Nutrition (EEN) Find Amber J Tresca at AboutIBD.com, Verywell, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram. Find Gaming4Guts on Twitch, Discord, Facebook, and Twitter. Credits: Mix and sound design is by Mac Cooney. Theme music, "IBD Dance Party,” is from ©Cooney Studio.

After hearing from my 10-year-old daughter, it’s now time to hear from my 13-year-old son. My kids are in hybrid school, and for my 8th grader, this means he goes to school in person  two full days a week, with 3 days of distance learning at home. We are managing it as well as I think we can expect. However, my son brings up a small wrinkle in regards to the "return to normal" to which we are all looking forward. It is going to be challenging for us to go back to our prior pace and there will be new struggles along the way. Be sure to listen to the end to hear my son’s tips for parents on how to talk to their kids. Find Amber J Tresca at AboutIBD.com, Verywell, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram. Find IBDMoms on IBDMoms.org, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Credits: Mix and sound design is by Mac Cooney. Theme music, "IBD Dance Party,” is from ©Cooney Studio.

How often do you check in with your friends and family about how they're doing during the pandemic? Families have had to make difficult choices regarding school, playdates, and extracurricular activities. We are all concerned about how our kids are faring during the pandemic. But are we asking them about their worries and concerns as often as we should? Amber sits down with her 10-year-old daughter to talk about hybrid school, concerns about getting sick with COVID, what kids are missing right now, and what they want to do when the pandemic is over. Concepts discussed in this episode: 7 Random Acts of Kindness for Kids The Benefits of Altruism for Stress Management How to Practice Gratitude This Thanksgiving Find Amber J Tresca at AboutIBD.com, Verywell, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram. Find IBDMoms on IBDMoms.org, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Credits: Mix and sound design is by Mac Cooney. Theme music, "IBD Dance Party,” is from ©Cooney Studio.

Do you worry that inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) will get in the way of finding a romantic partner? Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis can make dating challenging but they can also simplify it. It becomes clear pretty quickly if a potential partner is going to struggle to cope with chronic illness. This episode focuses on communication, as Amber and her husband, Mike, discuss how he reacted to his first introduction to ulcerative colitis and why it's important to check in with your partner before discussing IBD outside of the relationship. After more than 20 years, they finally put an incident of miscommunication to bed, and Mike gives his tips on being a supportive partner. Concepts discussed in this episode: Advice for Partners of People With IBD How to Create Your IBD Elevator Speech The Differences Between an Ileostomy and a J-Pouch How to Prepare Yourself for Ileostomy Surgery Overview of J-Pouch Surgery What You Can Say to Your Friend With IBD Pregnancy and Inflammatory Bowel Disease Living With Prednisone Find Michael Tresca on Facebook, Twitter, and Patreon. Find Amber J Tresca at AboutIBD.com, Verywell, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram. Find IBDMoms on IBDMoms.org, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Credits: Mix and sound design is by Mac Cooney. Theme music, "IBD Dance Party,” is from ©Cooney Studio.

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) affects more than the digestive system. Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis can also affect the eyes, joints, and skin. Jordan Ditty was diagnosed with IBD as a child, though her diagnosis floated between Crohn’s and ulcerative colitis and she had j-pouch surgery due to a colonic perforation. Recently, she had her j-pouch removed and a permanent ileostomy placed. Surgery gave her with a better quality of life but also a new diagnosis of a skin condition related to IBD, called pyoderma gangrenosum. Learn how Jordan remains hopeful through her long journey with IBD and a host of complications. Concepts discussed in this episode: The Differences Between an Ileostomy and a J-Pouch Fistula Types, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prognosis How to Prepare Yourself for Ileostomy Surgery Mouth Ulcers (Aphthous Stomatitis) Overview of J-Pouch Surgery Pouchitis After IPAA (J-Pouch) Surgery Proctectomy Surgery for Inflammatory Bowel Disease (“Barbie” butt or “Ken” butt surgery) Pyoderma Gangrenosum as a Potential Complication of IBD Find Jordan Ditty on Instagram. Find Amber J Tresca at AboutIBD.com, Verywell, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram. Credits: Mix and sound design is by Mac Cooney. Theme music, "IBD Dance Party,” is from ©Cooney Studio.

I'm taking some time off from producing new episodes of About IBD. But I don't want to leave you without great Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis content for your ears. That’s why I’m sharing another podcast with you, called PSC Mami. PSC stands for primary sclerosing cholangitis, and it’s a liver condition that is related to IBD, and ulcerative colitis in particular. PSC Mami brings you stories at the intersection of PSC and parenthood. You can find PSC Mami in any podcast app as well as on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. The host of PSC Mami is Monika Aldarondo, who talks to parents about their perspective on life with IBD and PSC. Subscribe to PSC Mami in your favorite podcast app, including Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, and Soundcloud. Find PSC Mami on her web site, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.  Find Amber J Tresca at AboutIBD.com, Verywell, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram. Credits: Mix and sound design for About IBD is by Mac Cooney. Theme music, "IBD Dance Party," is from ©Cooney Studio.

I'm taking some time off from producing new episodes of About IBD. But I don't want to leave you without great Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis content for your ears. That's why I'm sharing a new IBD podcast with you, called Crohn's Veteran. You can find Crohn's Veteran in any podcast app as well as on Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, and Twitter. The Crohn's Veteran hosts are Jordan McConnell, CJ Cabrera, and Renika Wood, who give their perspective on life with IBD and interview guests from the IBD community. Subscribe to Crohn's Veteran in your favorite podcast app, including Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and Anchor. Find Crohn's Veteran on their blog, Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, Twitter, Twitch, and their merch store. Find the Crohn's Veteran hosts on their personal Instagram accounts: Jordan McConnell, CJ Cabrera, and Renika Wood. Find Amber J Tresca at AboutIBD.com, Verywell, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram. Credits: Mix and sound design for About IBD is by Mac Cooney. Theme music, "IBD Dance Party,” is from ©Cooney Studio.

Kids with chronic illness face special issues when going back to school because they’re at risk of their accommodations becoming eroded. In particular, children who live with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, might be in danger of not being granted appropriate bathroom access. I speak with Dr Brad Jerson, a Pediatric Psychologist in the Division of Digestive Diseases, Hepatology, and Nutrition at Connecticut Children’s and an Assistant Professor of Pediatrics at the University of Connecticut School of Medicine. We discuss the worrying behaviors that parents should watch out for in their kids and how we can help kids who feel scared to go back to school. Episode transcript: https://bit.ly/AIBD78 Concepts discussed in this episode: How to Practice Active Listening How Is Your Child Coping With COVID-19? Here’s What to Look For Managing Family Stress During COVID-19 Template Section 504 Plan for Children with Inflammatory Bowel Disease IBD Patient Advocacy Organizations Connecting to Cure Crohn's and Colitis Crohn's and Colitis Australia Crohn’s and Colitis Canada Crohn's and Colitis New Zealand Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation The European Federation of Crohn's & Ulcerative Colitis Associations Girls With Guts IBDMoms (Amber is a co-founder) IBD Apps Gali Health (Affiliate Link) The Mighty Healthline IBD (Includes Podcasts Hosted By Amber) Find Dr Brad Jerson on Twitter and at Connecticut Children’s. Find Amber J Tresca at AboutIBD.com, Verywell, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram. Credits: Mix and sound design is by Mac Cooney. Theme music, "IBD Dance Party,” is from ©Cooney Studio.

Back to school will be quite different for families across the United States and the world this year. There aren’t many answers to be had to our questions, yet we must make decisions with the best information that we have at this time. I speak with Dr Brad Jerson, a Pediatric Psychologist in the Division of Digestive Diseases, Hepatology, and Nutrition at Connecticut Children’s and an Assistant Professor of Pediatrics at the University of Connecticut School of Medicine about how we can prepare our kids, and ourselves, for the school year. We discuss the behaviors we can model for our children, how we can talk to young kids about mask wearing, and how to engage kids of all ages in conversation about their fears and anxieties during this time. Concepts discussed in this episode: A Checklist to Help Parents Decide: Send Kids Back to School or Keep Them Home During COVID-19? Is It Safe to Send Your Child Back to School During COVID-19? Advice From Connecticut Children’s Physician-in-Chief Ask a Pediatrician: Is It a Good Idea for My Child With Asthma to Go Back to School or Day Care During COVID-19? 7 Ways to Introduce Your Child to Wearing a Mask Coronavirus and IBD Reporting Database Find Dr Brad Jerson on Twitter and at Connecticut Children’s. Find Amber J Tresca at AboutIBD.com, Verywell, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram. Credits: Mix and sound design is by Mac Cooney. Theme music, "IBD Dance Party,” is from ©Cooney Studio.

While everyone who lives with inflammatory bowel disease, or IBD, has their own story, there are major themes. Finding someone whose story is similar to yours is both validating and empowering. This is why Amber Tresca, who lives with ulcerative colitis and a j-pouch, developed the About IBD Podcast.   IBD is not only isolating but it also affects every aspect of the lives of those who live with these diseases. It touches relationships, finances, and careers. On About IBD, Amber talks to caregivers and people living with IBD to get their stories so that they can share what they’ve learned from their journey.   She also talks to healthcare providers and other experts to get their perspective on a wide variety of topics including research about IBD, improving relationships with physicians, becoming a critical thinker, and how to get involved with healthcare activism. Amber wants to give people touched by IBD the information they need to live a better life, as well as feel less alone while navigating the ups and downs of the patient journey.   Subscribe to About IBD on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or your favorite podcast app.   Find Amber J Tresca at AboutIBD.com, Verywell, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram.   Credits: Mix and sound design is by Mac Cooney. Theme music, "IBD Dance Party,” is from ©Cooney Studio.