Question:
What advice do others have with active flare ups/surgeries + Crohns Disease?

I have Crohn's Disease that was very active in the past. I am off all meds for Crohns and have not had a flare of any kind for approx 5 yrs now. In the past I have had 20" of my small bowel resectioned and have been on Steriods for many months at a time to bring the flares under control. I developed out of control Diabetes and high blood pressure from the steriods but as my health improved and as I gradually came off all meds, I lost 80 pds and no longer have Diabetes or high blood pressure. But, even though I don't have active Crohns right now, theres still the risk that it could develop down the road again. So, I have wondered what others have experienced since they've had WLS.. has anyone thats had Crohns + small bowel resectioning + gallbladder removal been approved for surgery, and if so what complications have you run into, what are the pros and cons? My surgeon said he isn't sure at this time if I would even be able to be a candidate for WLS b/c of the past surgeries and Crohns. If surgery is possible, he thought the band would be a good match for me. Has anyone else whose had the band and Crohns experienced complications after WLS? It does worry me that if a flare did occur after WLS about the amount of meds that need to be taken would I be able to swallow that many pills? Thanksss, I would appreciate any help anyone might have thats had experience with these issues.    — Dale Ann R. (posted on June 8, 2002)

June 9, 2002

   — Amber L.

August 30, 2002
I was diagnosed with Crohn's 5 yrs. ago, and had colostomy surgery 2 yrs. ago. I am prently trying to get the ok to have WLS. The colorectal surgeon who performed my colostomy thinks WLS would be great. But the WLS surgeon I was referred to wants me to have a gastroenterologist give the ok before he will consult with me about WLS. I also am interested in hearing how Crohn's patients deal with WLS.
   — Pam M.