I have recently stopped talking Azathioprine, which is a big milestone in my journey with Crohns.
Something to celebrate after 14 years of taking the medication daily!
The last time I came off the medication it did not take me long to be back into remission. This time I feel a lot healthier and have learn my lessons from last time.
Life style choice is the biggest factor. Last time I was young and would be out most weekends smoking and drinking. Now that I am a married man and parent I find it a lot easier to remain healthy - with the odd blow out now and again.
I also think stress plays a part.. So I try to remain chilled and not get stressy about minor things.
So my top tips for staying healthy are
- Stop smoking
- Drink sensibly
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle
- Try not to get stressed
Fingers crossed.. and I will not have a lot to blog about in the coming years.. But I will post anything I think might be useful.
2 comments:
I love the simplicity of this post - I completely agree that the solution to many chronic illnesses is to do with stress reduction and overall lifestyle! I currently take Azathioprine for Crohn's and my specialist has said I may never come off it. Apparently if you stop, and then try to start taking it again, your body may be immune to its effects the second time round, so it's better to just stay on it? I'd be curious as to your thoughts/experience with this.
Thanks!
Many thanks for your kind comments.
I believe the information your doctor gave you to be incorrect. Azathioprine can take time to start working, because of this, it can be administered intravenously to get it kick started.
Over the years I was monitored with precaution whilst on Azathioprine as it was a relatively new drug and the medical profession were unsure of the long term affects of taking it.
The drug did prove itself to be okay over long periods and my specialist was not worried about leaving me on the medication.
Personally I wanted to stop taking Azathioprine. I felt healthy and now believe I know how to handle my Chronhs condition.
So far, all good. I believe being medication free is a real positive milestone with my battle with Crohns.
Hope this helps. Good luck.
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