Devon
Sorry to hear of your diagnosis. I've had Crohns for 12 years now. You asked how bad does it get; sorry to say that everybody is different. I know people with it who have never had any serious complications. For me, when I was diagnosed, the first 2 years or so I was in and out of the hospital until the doctors got a handle on it. Once I learned how to tell when a flare-up was coming, I was able to alter my diet and activities that helped keep it in check for 8 years. That is something you will eventually be able to figure out. You will notice signs a few days in advance that something is going on down there. It will just take time to learn to recognize an oncoming flare-up. I've been having problems since the beginning of the year that may require surgery. I don't mean to scare you but the fact is that most Crohns patients do require surgery at some point in their lives. I shouldn't complain though, after going 8 years without a problem. I'm going to give you a web site where you can post you name. It is full of other people with Crohns who comminucate with each other for support. It really is helpful, you can get in contact with thousands of people who know EXACTLY what you are going through. The site is http://nooduitgang.com/stoma/crohns-new.htm. Make sure you contact the CCFA also at www.ccfa.org. They are very helpful also. Best of luck, Devon