Straight from the Gut

Approximately one million teens and adults in the United States live with Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis - two forms of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). These chronic conditions can dramatically impact quality of life. Difficult-to-discuss symptoms like uncontrollable diarrhea, abdominal pain, bloody stool, and others can make employment and everyday life difficult. Knowing about the diseases, state-of-the-art treatments, and ways to manage symptoms enable people with IBD to advocate for the care they need. This volume charts the territory of successfully living with IBD: finding the right diagnosis; getting state-of-the-art treatment; coping with prednisone; living with an ostomy; dealing with insurance and employment; managing relationships and fertility concerns; finding emotional support; and identifying resources. Author Cliff Kalibjian is an expert in the field of inflammatory bowel disorders. He was diagnosed with Crohn's disease at the age of 13. Throughout the book are the warm and wise voices of over 40 people who have "been there, done that."