7 years with an anal fistula

Digestive health
1

I have crohns disease I have been diagnosed with it January 1999 but I have had problems for a long time before the diagnoses.  I have had some of my intestines and had to wear a colostomy bag in 2008 for a year and half.  Since then I have had the colostomy reversed in 2010.  A year later I developed a fistula.   I stayed on my medication for a few years after but then stopped.  I felt that the medication was not helping my symptoms.  I was taking Remicade, Imuran, and Asacol.  I stopped taking the medication in 2013.  I moved to a new state and I am now seeing a new doctor.  I am really looking forward to having this fistula repaired.  I have to get back on my meds before have having the repair done.  It has been almost 7 years since the fistula begin.  I would really like to know what to expect before and after surgery.  I would also like to know if there are others out there that my have the same issues with crohn's disease.

Joe7772

2

Hi Joe, you have been through a lot. I have had a permanent ileostomy stoma since May 2008. I have not had any fistulas. I do have mild flare up and getting Inflixmab Infusion treatment for 2 years, now and it is helping. Hope things get better after your operation.

3

Hello stephaney28634,

Thanks for responding,  I hope things continue to become even better for you and I know exactly what you mean when you say you have been through a lot.  Stay stress free and thank you for sharing.

Jamyel