Spondylitis Association of America Forums General Discussion Young Adults - The 20-Something Club It just keeps getting better and better

So I turned 29 on March 14 and a week later went to the ER with bloody diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and bad cramps. Blood tests showed elevated white blood cell count so I was admitted. Spent 3 days there where they ran all kinds of tests. Saw the GI Doc for a follow up today and I have an intestinal ischemia. GI doc called my Rheumatologists who called me after i got a quarter mile from the GI doc and went straight to my Rheumatologist for blood work to check for signs of vasculits. Just 4 months ago I felt the best I felt in years, physically and mentally, then another flare started and everything has gone to hell again. I am taking 11 medications and havent even filled 3 of my scripts which would total 14. I look like I am in great health so its really hard for people to understand what I am dealing with. Oh yeah, I am seeing my PCP, 4 specialists and now I have to go see a flippin Cardiologist now. I am just venting. I know yall understand and thats exactly why I am here.

Sorry to hear how bad it's been wish I could offer some advice or happy thoughts, but I don't know what I could say to help. Just know we're all here to listen when you need it. I hope everything gets straightened it so you're feeling better soon. And hopefully soon you can get off a few of those meds, but I also know that can be a reality in our lives. I am currently on 3, and will be switching from one to another in a few days- and I felt like that was a lot. Keep us updated on how you're feeling!

Didway, sorry to hear it's been such a rotten time for you. Bloody diarrhea was and is terrifying, I'm sure.

I'm insanely busy with the wedding season gearing back up and my own fair share of doctors' visits and procedures to cram in where I can, but let's make that Dallas area meet-up a reality soon. In a misery loves company sort of way, I crave seeing other spondy folks face-to-face. I think it could be helpful for you as well- as you say, we look much healthier than we are, and no one understands but other folks who live it.