Talking about UC
In response to a recent blog, Lee wrote in with a question about how to approach a family member or friend about a possible diagnosis of UC. While there are certainly individual differences based upon the dynamics of each relationship, some things we have found helpful in these situations are:
1) Express that the reason you are broaching the topic is primarily out of your care and concern for the individual. For example, starting off by saying "I've noticed that you haven't really been feeling very well lately and I'm genuinely concerned about you." Some people find having a digestive illness embarrassing and difficult to talk about. Discussing symptoms of bloody diarrhea and gas is not as easy as talking about a backache or twisted knee. Others, who have been healthy for most of their lives, try to deny the symptoms for some time in the hope they will go away. Yet, the disruption to a person's quality of life and emotional health from gastrointestinal problems can be substantial. By bringing up the topic, you are demonstrating an openness and understanding.
2) Provide appropriate support. In Lee's situation, it sounds as if she is concerned a family member is exhibiting symptoms of UC and should seek medical attention. It may be helpful to mention to the individual that you happened to come across some information about a condition that seems to fit his symptoms, and would be happy to share it with him to see what his thoughts are. Providing a resource for the person you are concerned about may help him acknowledge and start understanding that perhaps something could be wrong.
3) Encourage the person to discuss these issues with a health care professional. Symptoms of UC (bloody diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain, gas, bloating) can also be seen in irritable bowel syndrome, infectious diarrhea, proctitis secondary to sexually transmitted diseases, celiac disease, food allergy, and other forms of colitis. As such, it is important that the individual has an appropriate evaluation to determine the source of symptoms.