Advice from a College Student with Ulcerative Colitis

Ulcerative colitis is difficult to live with in any situation. It is especially hard to deal with when you are a college student. This condition affects almost every aspect of the college experience.

I have had problems in dorms. I discovered that it was best in my situation to let my dorm mates know about my condition as soon as possible. I know that this is not something that I should be ashamed of but it is difficult to talk about sometimes. I usually just come out and say that I have ulcerative colitis so that if I have a flare up, those near me do not think I am crazy.

A major problem with dorm life is that during a flare up, sometimes the bathroom is occupied. That is a bad thing because diarrhea cannot be controlled so I just can't wait. Sometimes, I have had to resort to desperate measures such as using a trash can. I know that seems embarrassing but so is having to carry soiled clothes to the laundry room.

My ulcerative colitis affects my study time and homework. If I am having a flare up, I tend to stay away from my study group. I have also been known to study in the bathroom so that I don't have to drop my computer and study materials to run to the bathroom. Basically, I just try to find ways to make things easier for me and my room mates.

As far as my professors, I schedule an appointment with them as soon as I can to tell them about my ulcerative colitis. I usually bring a note from my doctor so they can keep it in my record. By doing this, most professors are understanding if I have to run out during a lecture or lab. If my stomach is bothering me, I will wear a bladder control pad. I do that just in case I cannot make it to the bathroom. I had one class that I wore one every day because there was no bathroom on the same floor as the classroom.

In the past, I have had to ask for an extension on an assignment because of a major flare up. I try not to do this often because I do not want my ulcerative colitis to be a crutch for me.

As far as dating goes, I usually tell guys pretty early in the relationship. I do not tell them on the first date because I think this would probably scare them off. If I am having a flare up, I will usually see if they are willing to go out to dinner or just stay home. When I go out to eat, I sit as close to the bathroom as possible.

During a flare up, I try to avoid going to places like the movies or bars because of the long lines for the bathroom. This is pretty easy for me because I don't drink alcohol. That is another thing affected by my condition. Alcohol makes my ulcerative colitis worse.

My friends are very understanding. When we are out in town, they never question me or get upset when I have to stop to use the bathroom. I think that this support makes life easier for me. I think that, like with any other issue, honesty is the best policy. Those who want the best for me will not look down upon me or make fun of me because of a medical condition.