I hear your story and share a similar situation. I am 61 and have always been very healthy and active. About 18 months ago, I ended up in the hospital with pancolitis and since then diagnosed with Ulcerative Colitis. I believe what triggered my UC is a C diff infection, which I ended up having twice during this time. Since then it seems that my immune system has been in overdrive and does not want to shut off. My calprotectin levels have been very high (latest was 1586 and when I was in the hospital it was 2,635).

I started out on the Meslamine last year which only made me feel worse. My doctor placed me on Entyvio infusions this past February, but this is not working for me and she is now recommending Remicade. In between, the only thing that has helped with my symptoms is the Prednisone and we both know that this is only a temporary bridge. I'm really questioning whether another biologic is going to make a difference and truly understand the frustration of how long it takes to go through the process and once again, have months pass by with feeling like you are missing out on life. I do wonder if it makes sense to look at the gut microbiota and possibly surgery if there is too much damage. I am just starting to try the Microbiome Labs products for repairing the gut (a nurse who has Crohn's recommended it and swears by it). I will keep you posted if you are interested. I have always been conscientious about nutrition but like you, I am less than 100 pounds and it's been difficult to keep the weight on for the past year.

As a side note, I do feel that I am predestined for autoimmune. I had graves disease 30 years ago, but after having my thyroid dissolved 30 years ago and taking Synthroid since, I have had zero issues.

My feeling based on keeping track of my own body is that something triggers my immune system to go into overdrive and then for some reason, it does not want to shut off once the organ is damaged. First my thyroid and now this time, it was an infection in my gut that created havoc in my colon. This is totally my own opinion based on what I have experienced, but wonder if others feel the same way.

Would be interested to hear more about your experience and the direction that you are taking with your treatment options.

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