Meh.

My second gastroenterologist appointment was yesterday. I had a certain procedure done that involved me donning a hospital gown. I was VERY aware of the fact I wasn't wearing any underwear.

The test results gave me happiness at first, but now I'm just sad.

For one, I am relieved to finally know what is wrong with me. I have been battling this sickness for months now. I can start medication and go from there in my healing process.

Unfortunately, what I have is a disease. It will never go away. I will have to restrict my diet for the rest of my life. I will probably be on medication for the rest of my life (unless I am able to find an effective alternative treatment. Google searches render conflicting results). If I eat the wrong thing, I will be battling these painful and annoying symptoms all over again.

I am going to see my doctor again after I start medication. I am kind of fed up with him. I feel like I can never accurately explain my point or question before he starts talking. If I don't feel like all my questions have been addressed at this next appointment, I am going to see a new doctor.

Anyway, I have an Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). It's called ulcerative colitis (UC). According to my doctor, it is an autoimmune disorder that causes my immune system to attack my intestines. The result is an inflamed and ulcerated colon. As you can imagine, this leaves me with all sorts of fun digestive issues.

I want to be able to eat anything. I've been striving for a healthier lifestyle anyway, but it's nice to be able to kickback and treat myself once in a while. I'm not gonna be able to do that anymore. From here on it's a strict diet. Even fruit might not be good for me because of their simple sugars. Sigh.

Hopefully I'll move on to a phase of acceptance, but right now I'm in utter despair.

Have you ever dealt with IBD, IBS, celiac disease, food intolerance, or food allergy? I know there are many, and I follow a few gluten free blogs... But I never thought that would be me.. you know? :(