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This group is a support group for those who suffer from crohns, it will have receipes for those who don't know what to eat and other help tips.
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Colonscopy Prep Worse Than Paroceedure
Colonoscopy Prep Worse Than Procedure
Patients Report More Discomfort From Colonoscopy Preparation Than From Colonoscopy
By Miranda Hitti
WebMD Medical News
Reviewed by Louise Chang, MD
May 16, 2008 -- Preparing for colonoscopy is more uncomfortable than the procedure itself, a new poll shows.
In colonoscopy, a doctor guides a thin, flexible tube capped with a tiny camera through the colon to look for tumors or other abnormalities. Colonoscopy or other colon cancer screening tests are recommended for everyone starting at age 50 and earlier for people at high risk for colon cancer.
The new poll, conducted by the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care Institute for Quality Improvement (AAAHC Institute) from August to November 2007, included nearly 2,500 U.S. colonoscopy patients at 107 institutions. They rated their colonoscopy experience, starting with colonoscopy preparation, which can involve following a liquid diet and using laxatives to clean out the colon before colonoscopy.
Most patients -- 66% -- reported no discomfort or minimal discomfort from colonoscopy preparation. An additional 19% reported medium discomfort, 8% reported "almost severe" discomfort, and 7% reported severe discomfort from colonoscopy preparation.
As for the colonoscopy procedure itself, which involves getting anesthesia, the vast majority of patients -- 88% -- reported no discomfort. An additional 8% reported low levels of discomfort, 2% reported a medium amount of discomfort, 1% reported almost severe discomfort, and 1% reported severe discomfort.
In the poll, patients were asked if they would have another colonoscopy, if recommended. Of the 1,870 patients who answered that question, 98% said yes. The rare patients who said no were particularly likely to have reported high levels of discomfort from preparing for colonoscopy.
Tips for Colonoscopy Preparation
In a news release, the AAAHC Institute provides these tips on preparing for colonoscopy:
* Discuss your concerns with your doctor, nurse, or other health care provider.
* Make sure you get clear, written instructions about colonoscopy preparation, and follow those instructions carefully. Poor preparation may mean having to repeat the test.
* Limit your activities; be prepared to spend several hours in the bathroom the evening before your colonoscopy.
* Call your doctor if you have any trouble, such as vomiting or abdominal pain, or if you don't understand the instructions.
Patients Report More Discomfort From Colonoscopy Preparation Than From Colonoscopy
By Miranda Hitti
WebMD Medical News
Reviewed by Louise Chang, MD
May 16, 2008 -- Preparing for colonoscopy is more uncomfortable than the procedure itself, a new poll shows.
In colonoscopy, a doctor guides a thin, flexible tube capped with a tiny camera through the colon to look for tumors or other abnormalities. Colonoscopy or other colon cancer screening tests are recommended for everyone starting at age 50 and earlier for people at high risk for colon cancer.
The new poll, conducted by the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care Institute for Quality Improvement (AAAHC Institute) from August to November 2007, included nearly 2,500 U.S. colonoscopy patients at 107 institutions. They rated their colonoscopy experience, starting with colonoscopy preparation, which can involve following a liquid diet and using laxatives to clean out the colon before colonoscopy.
Most patients -- 66% -- reported no discomfort or minimal discomfort from colonoscopy preparation. An additional 19% reported medium discomfort, 8% reported "almost severe" discomfort, and 7% reported severe discomfort from colonoscopy preparation.
As for the colonoscopy procedure itself, which involves getting anesthesia, the vast majority of patients -- 88% -- reported no discomfort. An additional 8% reported low levels of discomfort, 2% reported a medium amount of discomfort, 1% reported almost severe discomfort, and 1% reported severe discomfort.
In the poll, patients were asked if they would have another colonoscopy, if recommended. Of the 1,870 patients who answered that question, 98% said yes. The rare patients who said no were particularly likely to have reported high levels of discomfort from preparing for colonoscopy.
Tips for Colonoscopy Preparation
In a news release, the AAAHC Institute provides these tips on preparing for colonoscopy:
* Discuss your concerns with your doctor, nurse, or other health care provider.
* Make sure you get clear, written instructions about colonoscopy preparation, and follow those instructions carefully. Poor preparation may mean having to repeat the test.
* Limit your activities; be prepared to spend several hours in the bathroom the evening before your colonoscopy.
* Call your doctor if you have any trouble, such as vomiting or abdominal pain, or if you don't understand the instructions.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease Gene
Inflammatory Bowel Disease Gene ID'd
Gene Is Likely One of Several Linked to IBD, Researchers Say
By Miranda Hitti
WebMD Medical News
Reviewed by Louise Chang, MD
Oct. 26, 2006 -- Scientists have spotted what they suspect is the first of several genes tied to inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
The gene is called IL23R. It's noted by Yale University's Judy Cho, MD, and colleagues in Science's early online edition.
Inflammatory bowel disease includes Crohn's diseaseCrohn's disease and ulcerative colitisulcerative colitis. Its exact cause is unknown.
About a million people in the U.S. have IBD, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.
The gene discovery is "not a gene test" for IBD, and it's "not going to be an immediate panacea" for people with IBD, Cho tells WebMD. "But we have a lot better information, and the power of information, I think, is going to hopefully make a difference."
For instance, the gene findings may eventually lead to new drugs to treat IBD.
"It basically says, 'OK, let's put this at the top of the list of things that we should really work on,'" Cho says.
Inflammation Link
"Inflammatory bowel disease is an uncontrolled chronic inflammation of the intestines," Cho tells WebMD. "As you might imagine, the inflammatory process is very complex.
"Imagine a fire where there's all kinds of things that are contributing to the fire," Cho says. "The power of genetics is that it identifies ... the trigger that started the whole process."
A certain chemical pathway in the body, called the interleukin-23 pathway, was highlighted in other IBD studies, Cho notes.
"Now the genetics says the same thing," Cho says.
Gene Study
Cho's team checked the DNA of nearly 1,000 people with Crohn's disease and almost 1,000 people without either form of IBD. All participants were whites of European descent.
The scientists looked for DNA differences in the patients and the people without IBD. Several variations of the IL23R gene -- which rules the interleukin-23 pathway -- stood out.
In particular, people with an uncommon gene variation were two to four times less likely to have Crohn's disease, Cho says.
"So instead of thinking about the genetics of disease, maybe you should be thinking about the genetics of health," Cho says.
Next Steps
Cho and colleagues are continuing their gene studies.
"Undoubtedly, there are other genes" involved in IBD, Cho says. "We think that there's going to likely be at least several others."
It will be important to do IBD gene studies in people of other ethnic backgrounds, she notes.
As for new treatments, drug companies may be able to make antibodies that block the interleukin-23 pathway.
That strategy would be "very effective at tamping down inflammation, but it might be almost too potent," Cho says. "We have the inflammatory response to fight off infection."
A better approach might be to mimic the protective gene variant, Cho suggests.
"You would tamp down inflammation in a way that you're not more prone to develop infections," she says, calling the development of such drugs "a long-term goal."
Tailoring Treatment
One day, genetics might help predict IBD's severity in patients and tailor treatment, Cho notes.
"It's a raging debate in IBD: Are we better off when someone gets newly diagnosed with going with the big guns that potentially have more side effects, or are we better off starting with the safest drug that's maybe not as effective as some of the other ones and stepping up as patients need," she says.
"If you take a combination of IBD genes and predict these courses, that might be a logical way of individualizing therapies, or at least giving patients more information so that they can make informed decisions about their medical therapies," Cho says.
Gene Is Likely One of Several Linked to IBD, Researchers Say
By Miranda Hitti
WebMD Medical News
Reviewed by Louise Chang, MD
Oct. 26, 2006 -- Scientists have spotted what they suspect is the first of several genes tied to inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
The gene is called IL23R. It's noted by Yale University's Judy Cho, MD, and colleagues in Science's early online edition.
Inflammatory bowel disease includes Crohn's diseaseCrohn's disease and ulcerative colitisulcerative colitis. Its exact cause is unknown.
About a million people in the U.S. have IBD, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.
The gene discovery is "not a gene test" for IBD, and it's "not going to be an immediate panacea" for people with IBD, Cho tells WebMD. "But we have a lot better information, and the power of information, I think, is going to hopefully make a difference."
For instance, the gene findings may eventually lead to new drugs to treat IBD.
"It basically says, 'OK, let's put this at the top of the list of things that we should really work on,'" Cho says.
Inflammation Link
"Inflammatory bowel disease is an uncontrolled chronic inflammation of the intestines," Cho tells WebMD. "As you might imagine, the inflammatory process is very complex.
"Imagine a fire where there's all kinds of things that are contributing to the fire," Cho says. "The power of genetics is that it identifies ... the trigger that started the whole process."
A certain chemical pathway in the body, called the interleukin-23 pathway, was highlighted in other IBD studies, Cho notes.
"Now the genetics says the same thing," Cho says.
Gene Study
Cho's team checked the DNA of nearly 1,000 people with Crohn's disease and almost 1,000 people without either form of IBD. All participants were whites of European descent.
The scientists looked for DNA differences in the patients and the people without IBD. Several variations of the IL23R gene -- which rules the interleukin-23 pathway -- stood out.
In particular, people with an uncommon gene variation were two to four times less likely to have Crohn's disease, Cho says.
"So instead of thinking about the genetics of disease, maybe you should be thinking about the genetics of health," Cho says.
Next Steps
Cho and colleagues are continuing their gene studies.
"Undoubtedly, there are other genes" involved in IBD, Cho says. "We think that there's going to likely be at least several others."
It will be important to do IBD gene studies in people of other ethnic backgrounds, she notes.
As for new treatments, drug companies may be able to make antibodies that block the interleukin-23 pathway.
That strategy would be "very effective at tamping down inflammation, but it might be almost too potent," Cho says. "We have the inflammatory response to fight off infection."
A better approach might be to mimic the protective gene variant, Cho suggests.
"You would tamp down inflammation in a way that you're not more prone to develop infections," she says, calling the development of such drugs "a long-term goal."
Tailoring Treatment
One day, genetics might help predict IBD's severity in patients and tailor treatment, Cho notes.
"It's a raging debate in IBD: Are we better off when someone gets newly diagnosed with going with the big guns that potentially have more side effects, or are we better off starting with the safest drug that's maybe not as effective as some of the other ones and stepping up as patients need," she says.
"If you take a combination of IBD genes and predict these courses, that might be a logical way of individualizing therapies, or at least giving patients more information so that they can make informed decisions about their medical therapies," Cho says.
FDA Ok's New Crohn's Disease Drug Cimzia
FDA OKs New Crohn's Disease Drug Cimzia
Cimzia Approved to Treat Crohn's in Adults Who Don't Respond to Other Treatments
By Miranda Hitti
WebMD Medical News
Reviewed by Louise Chang, MD
April 23, 2008 -- The FDA has approved a new prescription drug called Cimzia to treat Crohn's disease in adults who haven't responded to other conventional therapies.
Cimzia, given by injection, targets an inflammatory chemical called tumor necrosis factor (TNF) alpha. Patients would get a shot of the drug once every two weeks at first, and then get a monthly injection if the first three shots are beneficial.
Cimzia "works to reduce the signs and symptoms of Crohn's, but it also carries risks that will require patients on it to be closely monitored by their physicians or other health care professionals," Julie Beitz, MD, director of the Office of Drug Evaluation III in the FDA's Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, says in an FDA news release.
UCB, the drug company that makes Cimzia, says that Cimzia will be available in the U.S. within 48 hours of the drug's approval on April 22.
WebMD first reported on Cimzia in July 2007, when The New England Journal of Medicine published results from the drug's clinical trials.
(What do you think about trying such a new medication? Talk with others on WebMD's Crohn's and Colitis: Support Group board.)
About Crohn's Disease
Crohn's disease is a chronic, inflammatory bowel disease that affects more than 1 million men and women worldwide. It has no cure and its cause is unknown.
Crohn's can cause diarrhea, fever, rectal bleeding, malnutrition, narrowing of the intestinal tract, obstructions, abscesses, cramping, abdominal pain, and abnormal connections (fistulas) leading from the intestine to the skin or internal organs.
"Crohn's is a debilitating disease that disrupts the quality of life for its sufferers," Beitz says.
Cimzia's Approval
According to UCB, the FDA approved Cimzia based on clinical trials that included more than 1,500 Crohn's patients. The patients either got Cimzia or a placebo drug.
Among patients with moderate to severe Crohn's, those taking Cimzia were more likely than those taking the placebo to have their Crohn's symptoms ease for up to six months, UCB notes.
"This drug works to reduce the signs and symptoms of Crohn's, but it also carries risks that will require patients on it to be closely monitored by their physicians or other health care professionals," Beitz says.
Cimzia's most common side effects are headache, upper respiratory tract infections, abdominal pain, injection site reactions, and nausea, according to the FDA, which notes that Cimzia may also raise the risk of serious and potentially fatal infections and increased risk of lymphomas (a type of cancer) and other malignancies.
"As seen with the use of other anti-TNF-alpha agents, serious but infrequent infections and malignancies have been reported," UCB says in a news release.
The FDA notes that although an increased risk of tumors was not seen in studies of Cimzia, those studies were too small and too brief to make a firm conclusion about tumor risk, so postmarketing studies and clinical trials will be required to get long-term safety data.
The FDA says patients taking Cimzia should be taught how to identify an infection and be instructed to contact their health care professional at the first sign of infection while on Cimzia. In cases of serious infections, Cimzia should be discontinued immediately, the FDA says.
Cimzia Approved to Treat Crohn's in Adults Who Don't Respond to Other Treatments
By Miranda Hitti
WebMD Medical News
Reviewed by Louise Chang, MD
April 23, 2008 -- The FDA has approved a new prescription drug called Cimzia to treat Crohn's disease in adults who haven't responded to other conventional therapies.
Cimzia, given by injection, targets an inflammatory chemical called tumor necrosis factor (TNF) alpha. Patients would get a shot of the drug once every two weeks at first, and then get a monthly injection if the first three shots are beneficial.
Cimzia "works to reduce the signs and symptoms of Crohn's, but it also carries risks that will require patients on it to be closely monitored by their physicians or other health care professionals," Julie Beitz, MD, director of the Office of Drug Evaluation III in the FDA's Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, says in an FDA news release.
UCB, the drug company that makes Cimzia, says that Cimzia will be available in the U.S. within 48 hours of the drug's approval on April 22.
WebMD first reported on Cimzia in July 2007, when The New England Journal of Medicine published results from the drug's clinical trials.
(What do you think about trying such a new medication? Talk with others on WebMD's Crohn's and Colitis: Support Group board.)
About Crohn's Disease
Crohn's disease is a chronic, inflammatory bowel disease that affects more than 1 million men and women worldwide. It has no cure and its cause is unknown.
Crohn's can cause diarrhea, fever, rectal bleeding, malnutrition, narrowing of the intestinal tract, obstructions, abscesses, cramping, abdominal pain, and abnormal connections (fistulas) leading from the intestine to the skin or internal organs.
"Crohn's is a debilitating disease that disrupts the quality of life for its sufferers," Beitz says.
Cimzia's Approval
According to UCB, the FDA approved Cimzia based on clinical trials that included more than 1,500 Crohn's patients. The patients either got Cimzia or a placebo drug.
Among patients with moderate to severe Crohn's, those taking Cimzia were more likely than those taking the placebo to have their Crohn's symptoms ease for up to six months, UCB notes.
"This drug works to reduce the signs and symptoms of Crohn's, but it also carries risks that will require patients on it to be closely monitored by their physicians or other health care professionals," Beitz says.
Cimzia's most common side effects are headache, upper respiratory tract infections, abdominal pain, injection site reactions, and nausea, according to the FDA, which notes that Cimzia may also raise the risk of serious and potentially fatal infections and increased risk of lymphomas (a type of cancer) and other malignancies.
"As seen with the use of other anti-TNF-alpha agents, serious but infrequent infections and malignancies have been reported," UCB says in a news release.
The FDA notes that although an increased risk of tumors was not seen in studies of Cimzia, those studies were too small and too brief to make a firm conclusion about tumor risk, so postmarketing studies and clinical trials will be required to get long-term safety data.
The FDA says patients taking Cimzia should be taught how to identify an infection and be instructed to contact their health care professional at the first sign of infection while on Cimzia. In cases of serious infections, Cimzia should be discontinued immediately, the FDA says.
Obstacles
Is having Crohn's or Colitis an obstacle to us in our lives? When hurdlers race, what do they do? They look ahead to see each hurdle that must be leaped. High jumpers see the height of the bar they must have to clear right? Goals! I'll also bet not all obstacles in life are as easy to see. Don't you think we can overcome tremendous obstacles just to survive? When we have leaped over a hurdle in life we have gained success.
Have a super weekend.
Ron
Have a super weekend.
Ron
Just found this group
Hello.
I have only found this group. I have had Crohns for 17 years. Also, Type 2 diabetes,
no thyroid, removed due to thyroid cancer, Pernicious Anemia, which is another
by-product of Crohns. It's always good to have another support group to talk to.
HealingWell.com also has a great one for Crohns.
I have only found this group. I have had Crohns for 17 years. Also, Type 2 diabetes,
no thyroid, removed due to thyroid cancer, Pernicious Anemia, which is another
by-product of Crohns. It's always good to have another support group to talk to.
HealingWell.com also has a great one for Crohns.
Did You Know?
Did You Know?
All Americans should be concerned about colorectal cancer (CRC). Each year, in the United States, 147,000 new cases of colorectal cancer are diagnosed and more than 57,000 people die from the disease -- making it the second-leading cause of cancer-related deaths in this country.
Unfortunately, people with Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis -- collectively known as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) -- are at a higher risk for developing CRC than the general population. Even if your disease is in remission, you remain at risk. While these statistics are scary, keep in mind that most people with IBD will not develop CRC. What's more, despite the risk factors, CRC is highly treatable in the early stages. That's why it's important to recognize the signs and symptoms of CRC -- and why regular screenings and early detection are crucial. Learning all you can about the link between IBD and CRC is the first step in protecting yourself against CRC.
Know Your ABC,C's is an educational campaign aimed at raising awareness about the increased risk for colorectal cancer (CRC) among people with Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis (UC), collectively known as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month and you can learn more about your ABC,C's by calling 888.MY.GUT.PAIN or viewing this brochure that includes the latest information about the IBD-cancer connection. Includes a special pull-out section to bring to your doctor to assess if you are at risk.
Be sure to speak to your doctor about your risk factors for developing colorectal cancer and ways to reduce your risk and/or treat this illness. And stay tuned to CCFA's Web site for the latest information on this and other issues of importance to people with Crohn's or colitis!
All Americans should be concerned about colorectal cancer (CRC). Each year, in the United States, 147,000 new cases of colorectal cancer are diagnosed and more than 57,000 people die from the disease -- making it the second-leading cause of cancer-related deaths in this country.
Unfortunately, people with Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis -- collectively known as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) -- are at a higher risk for developing CRC than the general population. Even if your disease is in remission, you remain at risk. While these statistics are scary, keep in mind that most people with IBD will not develop CRC. What's more, despite the risk factors, CRC is highly treatable in the early stages. That's why it's important to recognize the signs and symptoms of CRC -- and why regular screenings and early detection are crucial. Learning all you can about the link between IBD and CRC is the first step in protecting yourself against CRC.
Know Your ABC,C's is an educational campaign aimed at raising awareness about the increased risk for colorectal cancer (CRC) among people with Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis (UC), collectively known as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month and you can learn more about your ABC,C's by calling 888.MY.GUT.PAIN or viewing this brochure that includes the latest information about the IBD-cancer connection. Includes a special pull-out section to bring to your doctor to assess if you are at risk.
Be sure to speak to your doctor about your risk factors for developing colorectal cancer and ways to reduce your risk and/or treat this illness. And stay tuned to CCFA's Web site for the latest information on this and other issues of importance to people with Crohn's or colitis!
Social Security Crohn's or colitis
Social Security
NEW IBD impairment listing effective December 18, 2007!
Applying for Benefits
Many IBD patients have learned an unfortunate paradox of dealing with a chronic disease-it often seems that the sicker we get, the more adversarial the social systems designed to protect us become. If your disease has become severe enough for you to consider filing for disability, the process of qualifying can be overwhelming-often filled with complex regulations, ambiguous interpretations, frequent disappointments, and endless delays. Below are some questions and answers that may help you understand how the application and appeal processes work should you need to apply for disability benefits.
What is Disability Insurance?
Basically, disability insurance provides income to people with medical conditions that are so severe they are unable to work. Employers may offer group long term disability (LTD) plans, and individual plans can be purchased from many insurance companies. However, as with health insurance, individual plans are medically underwritten, and for people with IBD, very costly, if available at all. The type of insurance you have will determine the claims and appeal process you must follow to receive benefits. Since LTD and individual plans vary, check your plan document for information on filing a claim and/or an appeal.
What Types of Disability Benefits Are Available through the Social Security Administration?
In addition to premium-based programs like LTD and individual disability plans, a 1956 amendment to the Social Security Act of 1935 provided for two types of monthly benefits payments to be paid to individuals who cannot work due to a disability. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), created by Title II of the Act, provides income for disabled people under age 65, who have worked in recent years (generally, 5 out of the last 10 years) and paid Social Security taxes. SSDI is not based on need, but on the recipient's past contributions (or those of a parent or spouse) to the Social Security trust fund.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI), created under Title XVI, covers disabled people who have never been able to work, or who worked so little or so long ago that they are not eligible for SSDI. SSI eligibility is determined on the basis of financial need. The medical requirements and determination process are the same for both programs.
Both programs define a disability as the "inability to engage in any substantial gainful activity by reason of any medically determinable physical or mental impairment which can be expected to last for a continuous period of not less than 12 months or result in death." In simple language, your illness makes you incapable of working enough to earn anything significant. The Social Security Administration (SSA) defines a medically determinable impairment as "an impairment that results from anatomical, physiological, or psychological abnormalities which can be shown by medically acceptable clinical and laboratory diagnostic techniques."
Who is Eligible for SSDI?
Basically, you are eligible if:
* You have contributed to a Social Security account while working for a specified period of time, usually 5 out of the last ten years of work;
* You meet the SSA's definition of disabled;
* You are currently not working, or you are working, but earning less than the amount considered to be the substantial gainful activity level ($800 in 2003).
Family members of SSDI recipients may also be eligible for benefits. Eligible family members include:
* Any unmarried children under 18 or age 19 if they are in high school full time. (This includes adopted children, and, in some cases, stepchildren or grandchildren);
* Unmarried children, 18 or older, may qualify if they have a disability that started before the age of 22 and if they meet the adult definition of disability;
* A spouse who is age 62 or older, or any age if he or she is caring for a child of the recipient who is under age 16, or disabled and also receiving checks;
* A disabled widow or widower age 50 or older. The disability must have started before, or within seven years after, the spouse's death. (Widows or widowers who receive Social Security benefits because they are caring for a recipient's children are eligible if they become disabled before, or within seven years after, those payments end.)
Who Is Eligible for SSI?
In order to receive SSI, or Supplemental Security Income, you must be age 65 or older, disabled or blind, and not exceed eligibility limits for income and assets. SSI also pays disability benefits to disabled or blind children who are under 18 years old, whose families have limited income and resources. People who get SSI can usually qualify for other assistance programs, such as food stamps and Medicaid.
Am I Considered Disabled?
Once you have determined that you fall into an eligible category, to receive benefits you must demonstrate that you are "disabled" by the Act's standards. Basically, 'disabled' means that you suffer from a physical or mental health problem (or a combination of problems) that makes you unable to do any kind of work. In addition, your disability is expected to last for at least a year or to result in death. The Social Security Administration uses five sequential questions to determine whether someone qualifies as disabled:
* Are you working?
If you have earnings averaging more than $780 a month in 2002 or $800 a month in 2003, you generally are not considered disabled.
* Is your condition severe?
Do you have a diagnosed condition that is severe enough to prevent you from performing basic work-related tasks?
* Is your condition found in the list of disabling impairments?
The Social Security Administration's Handbook for Physicians contains a "Listing of Impairments" for each of the major body systems. It catalogs impairments that are considered severe enough to prevent a person from performing any gainful activity (or in the case of children under age 18 applying for SSI, cause marked and severe functional limitations). Most of these impairments are permanent or are expected to result in death, or have a specific duration. For the others, the impairment must have lasted or be expected to last for a continuous period of at least 12 months. The criteria in the Listing of Impairments are applicable to evaluation of claims under both the Social Security disability insurance and SSI programs. If your condition is on the list, you are automatically approved for benefits. If it is not on the list, the SSA determines whether your condition "meets the listing," i.e., is as severe as an impairment on the list. If it is, your claim is approved. If not, your claim is further scrutinized under the next requirement. The recent listing for IBD impairments can be viewed here
* Can you do the work you did previously?
If your condition is severe, but not of the same or equal severity as an impairment on the list, then the SSA determines whether your medical documentation shows that you cannot reasonably be expected to do the work you have done in the last 15 years. If it does not, your claim will be denied. If it does, your claim will be considered further.
* Can you do any other type of work?
If you cannot do the work you did in the last 15 years, then it will be determined whether you can do any other type of work. Taking into consideration your age, education, past work experience, and transferable skills, the SSA will review the job demands of any other job which "exists in significant numbers" in the national economy, as determined by the Department of Labor. If you cannot do any other kind of work, your claim will be approved. If you can, your claim will be denied.
How Do I Apply?
You can apply for Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits online, by phone, mail or by visiting the nearest office as soon as you become disabled.
You may apply online or by phone, toll-free at 1-800-772-1213 from 7 a.m. and 7 p.m., Monday through Friday. Representatives will give you an appointment for your application to be taken over the telephone. For people who are deaf or hard of hearing, the SSA provides a toll-free "TTY" number: 1-800-325-0778. You can also apply at any Social Security office. You can find the name and address of the closest Social Security office.
The SSA estimates that the initial claims process for disability benefits generally takes from 90 to 120 days. However, being prepared with the necessary documents and medical evidence can help shorten the process.
What Information Will I Need to Provide?
The SSA requires original documents (or copies certified by the issuing agency) of:
* Your birth certificate or other proof of birth;
* Your Citizenship or Naturalization papers (if applicable).
The SSA will accept copies of:
* Your U.S. Military Service discharge paper(s) if you have served in the military;
* Your W-2 Form (Wage and Tax Statement), or if you are self-employed, your federal tax return for the past year.
In addition, you will need to supply:
Your Social Security number;
* A summary of where you worked in the past 15 years and the kind of work you did;
* The names and addresses of each employer for this year and last year;
* The amount you earned last year and the amount you expect to earn this year (between September and December, you may also be asked to estimate how much you expect to earn next year);
* Names, addresses, phone numbers and dates of treatment for doctors, hospitals, clinics, and institutions that provided treatment for the disabling condition;
* Medical records from your doctors, therapists, hospitals, clinics, and caseworkers, including the names of all medications you are taking, and all laboratory and test results;
* The beginning and ending dates for any period of U.S. military service you may have served;
* If your spouse and/or children are applying for benefits, you will need their birth certificates and Social Security numbers;
* If you have ever been married, the name, Social Security number, and date of birth of your current and/or any prior spouse, the date and place of each marriage and, if applicable, the date and place the marriage ended;
* Your bank account number and your bank or financial institution's routing transit number, so your benefits can be deposited electronically into your account.
If you are applying for Supplemental Security Income benefits you will also need to provide:
* Financial records, such as payroll slips, bank books, insurance policies, car registration, burial fund records, and other information about your income and the things you own;
* Information about your home, such as your mortgage or your lease and landlord's name.
When Will My Benefits Start?
If your SSDI claim is approved, you will receive benefits beginning with the sixth full month after the date that it is determined your disability began.
For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), benefits are paid for the first full month after the date you filed your claim, or the date you become eligible for SSI, if that is later.
How Much Will My Benefit Be?
The amount of your monthly disability benefit is based on your lifetime average earnings covered by Social Security. The Social Security Administration provides a statement that will tell you the amount of the benefit you have accrued. Request a statement.
How Long Will the Benefits Last?
Benefits usually continue until you are able to work again on a regular basis. There are also a number of special rules, called "work incentives," that provide continued benefits and health care coverage to help you make the transition back to work. Information about work incentives can be found on the Social Security web site at: view link
In addition, there are a number of circumstances that could cause SSA to discontinue your benefits. These are detailed on the Social Security web site at: view link
If you are receiving Social Security disability benefits when you reach age 65, your disability benefits automatically convert to retirement benefits, but the amount remains the same.
Do I Really Have a Chance at Winning My Claim?
Because the severity of IBD is often hard to measure empirically, it can be difficult to prove disability, but many people with IBD have been successful at winning their claims. With supportive doctors, consistent and well-documented evidence, competent legal representation-and a large dose of perseverance-it can be done.
Read What if My Claim Is Denied?
More Frequently Asked Questions
Updated: 2/01/08
© 2008 CCFA | All medical information on this Web site has been reviewed by members of CCFA's National Scientific Advisory Committee
Traveling & crohn's or colitis
How To Avoid Traveler's Diarrhea
Diarrhea afflicts one out of three U.S. travelers to less developed countries. These tips can help prevent an unpleasant bout of "Montezuma's revenge":
* "Don't drink the water"--unless you boil it first.
* Drink bottled mineral water, even when brushing your teeth.
* Try not to swallow the water when showering.
* Don't swallow water when swimming in fresh water, swimming pools, or where the ocean may be polluted.
* Avoid non-carbonated beverages, such as iced tea and fresh juices.
* Avoid all ice and ice cream; raw vegetables and salads; raw or uncooked meat, fish, or shellfish.
* Avoid uncooked dairy products unless you are certain that they have been pasteurized and prepared under sterile conditions.
* Never eat food from vendors' carts.
* Never eat prepared food, such as potato salad and canapes.
* Peel all fruits and egg shells yourself.
* Never eat food that has been allowed to sit until it reaches room temperature.
Remedies For Traveler's Diarrhea
* Drink plenty of fluids, preferably lukewarm or weak tea. Boil all water first!
* Avoid ice-cold beverages, sodas, or citrus drinks, which could aggravate diarrhea.
* Take extra salt to prevent dehydration.
* Anti-diarrheal medications, such as Imodium®, or large amounts of Pepto Bismol®, may be effective. Never take any of these drugs without consulting your physician.
How To Control A Medical Emergency
* Ask your doctor for a written plan of action in case your condition worsens while you're traveling.
* Find out in advance whether buses and trains have toilets. When making airline reservations, request an aisle seat near a bathroom.
* Give the airline advance notice so it can accommodate your diet needs, or bring a snack of your own.
* Keep your doctor's phone number and your insurance card in your wallet.
* Ask your health insurance carrier whether your policy covers foreign travel, as well as previously diagnosed chronic conditions.
Danger Signals for the Traveler with Crohn's Disease or Ulcerative Colitis
If you experience any of these danger signals while traveling, consult a physician immediately.
* High fever and shaking chills could represent a bacterial inflammation that requires intravenous antibiotics.
* Profuse bloody diarrhea suggests marked ulceration of the intestines, caused by a bacterium, parasite, or a major flare-up of colitis.
* Severe abdominal pain and/or abdominal distension could indicate a complication of your disease, especially if accompanied by severe abdominal tenderness or nausea and vomiting.
* Dizziness on standing up or an episode of fainting may indicate lowered blood pressure. The cause could be with malfunction of the adrenal gland, an indication that your steroid dose may need to be adjusted.
* Scanty, concentrated urine could indicate dehydration.
Diarrhea afflicts one out of three U.S. travelers to less developed countries. These tips can help prevent an unpleasant bout of "Montezuma's revenge":
* "Don't drink the water"--unless you boil it first.
* Drink bottled mineral water, even when brushing your teeth.
* Try not to swallow the water when showering.
* Don't swallow water when swimming in fresh water, swimming pools, or where the ocean may be polluted.
* Avoid non-carbonated beverages, such as iced tea and fresh juices.
* Avoid all ice and ice cream; raw vegetables and salads; raw or uncooked meat, fish, or shellfish.
* Avoid uncooked dairy products unless you are certain that they have been pasteurized and prepared under sterile conditions.
* Never eat food from vendors' carts.
* Never eat prepared food, such as potato salad and canapes.
* Peel all fruits and egg shells yourself.
* Never eat food that has been allowed to sit until it reaches room temperature.
Remedies For Traveler's Diarrhea
* Drink plenty of fluids, preferably lukewarm or weak tea. Boil all water first!
* Avoid ice-cold beverages, sodas, or citrus drinks, which could aggravate diarrhea.
* Take extra salt to prevent dehydration.
* Anti-diarrheal medications, such as Imodium®, or large amounts of Pepto Bismol®, may be effective. Never take any of these drugs without consulting your physician.
How To Control A Medical Emergency
* Ask your doctor for a written plan of action in case your condition worsens while you're traveling.
* Find out in advance whether buses and trains have toilets. When making airline reservations, request an aisle seat near a bathroom.
* Give the airline advance notice so it can accommodate your diet needs, or bring a snack of your own.
* Keep your doctor's phone number and your insurance card in your wallet.
* Ask your health insurance carrier whether your policy covers foreign travel, as well as previously diagnosed chronic conditions.
Danger Signals for the Traveler with Crohn's Disease or Ulcerative Colitis
If you experience any of these danger signals while traveling, consult a physician immediately.
* High fever and shaking chills could represent a bacterial inflammation that requires intravenous antibiotics.
* Profuse bloody diarrhea suggests marked ulceration of the intestines, caused by a bacterium, parasite, or a major flare-up of colitis.
* Severe abdominal pain and/or abdominal distension could indicate a complication of your disease, especially if accompanied by severe abdominal tenderness or nausea and vomiting.
* Dizziness on standing up or an episode of fainting may indicate lowered blood pressure. The cause could be with malfunction of the adrenal gland, an indication that your steroid dose may need to be adjusted.
* Scanty, concentrated urine could indicate dehydration.
