Hospitalised with Ulcerative Colitis, baby at home....

[Jess785]

Hello everyone, I've found all of the IBD threads on this site really helpful, but what i need now is a bit of encouragement and support.

I've had UC for about 13 years, always pretty mild and controllable with meds and topical steroids. Last week i became severely ill and was hospitalised with moderately active UC and am now on a steroid IV drip. Not sure how long i will be here, and nervous about the side effects of the steroids and azathioprine i will inevitably be on for a while.

i have an 8 month old DS at home, my first. Luckily we have started him at a childminder a few days a week and my husband's work schedule is flexible, but we don't have any family around or anyone who can really help us. I've only been in here for 3 days so far and my husband is really struggling, i miss my baby terribly- this is the first time we've been separated and I'm not going to see him for 4 days due to schedules, visiting hours, etc. I've also just returned to work after mat leave so have to deal with that stress, although they have been very supportive.

i never thought my UC would have an effect on caring for my baby, and I'm terribly upset and depressed. Any words of wisdom from mums with young children in similar situations? Sorry for the long post!!

[BsshBossh]

Oh you poor thing! Are there any friends or neighbours who could help out? Is there any relative who could travel down and stay at your house for a while?

[gobbin]

Only to say chin up, the meds will make you feel better quite quickly, azathioprine is fine (been on it 18 yrs), this grim episode will not last and you'll see your baby very, very soon. Good luck.

[spammytrollface]

I would suggest you ask if the baby can visit outside usual visiting times if you spend time with him in the day room/ dining room/ whatever. They should be able to accommodate this.

[furlinedsheepskinjacket]

poor you get well soon x

[RichTeaAreCrap]

Oh Jess you poor thing.
I hope you get well soon and can get home quickly.

[Jess785]

Thanks for the kind words everyone. Family are all abroad, but surviving on a steady stream of photos from dad. Hopefully the steroids kick in soon!

[BsshBossh]

How are you today Jess?

[MrsPinotGrigio]

Oh how awful. I have Crohns and my DS is 11 so not too little. I was in hospital a couple of years ago for nearly 3 weeks with a very bad flare up but DS seemed to cope quite well, I think it was because he was old enough to understand what was happening. The Azathioprine and steroids will start to work soon & you'll feel much better, though you might be very tired for a while. Hope you feel better soon