Living with a chronic condition is exhausting. And those of us with bowel conditions, it’s not really something that people can see when they look at us, it’s a bit of an invisible disease. If people can’t see what’s wrong, they find it hard to understand why we do the things we do or why we need lots of rest. You almost have to convince them you have a chronic condition to justify your needs! I have created a list below of a few things that have helped me personally since being diagnosed with Ulcerative Colitis. Hopefully they may help you too!
- It’s ok to take some rest – You may just need an hour or two, it could be a day, or even a week! But be honest with yourself, your health is far more important.
- Make that rest count – I love candles, especially the wooden wick ones, the sound of the crackling is so relaxing. I have two oversized fluffy hoodies which I always wear at home when I’m resting. Keeping warm really helps my joints. Have a nice long bath with your favourite bubbles (this is one thing I miss so much as I don’t have a bath at home).
- Set realistic goals for doing tasks – I tend to just stick to two, maybe three tasks a day depending on how big the task is. You will feel more accomplished completing those than having a huge list and looking at all the ones you didn’t achieve. Focus on what you DID do, no matter how small it may be.
- Always be prepared – I always have spare tissues, bag, underwear, medication in my bag or car in case of emergencies. You can get cute little waterproof bags for things like sanitary wear which would be great to use for this, I keep meaning to get one myself! Especially if you enjoy walking like me, when you know there may not be a toilet nearby, it just takes that anxiety away a little knowing I’m prepared.
- Get a can’t wait card & or RADAR key – The card makes it easier to ask for a loo in shops, restaurants and other venues. It takes the embarrassment away and the staff are more likely to let you have access if they know it’s for a medical reason. The key allows access to over 9,000 public accessible toilets in the UK. You will need a membership for a RADAR key.
- Don’t be afraid to use a disabled toilet! – If you urgently need the bathroom and you have an IBD, you are entitled to use a disabled/accessible toilet. Sitting in a cubicle with other people around whilst trying to control your bowel movements is incredibly embarrassing. So having that slightly more private space is much nicer for everyone. Not all disabilities are visible. I personally wouldn’t use one on a “normal” day, but I certainly would in those times of desperate need.
- Try a probiotic yoghurt drink – This may not work for everyone but I found drinking a yoghurt drink a day really helped to reduce my bloating. Before I almost looked pregnant my belly was so swollen and sore to touch. After a week of drinking it, I was shocked at the difference, I could sit down without being in pain, my clothes fit better and I started to feel better.
Do you have any other top tips? If you would like me to add to the list, let me know!
