Dr. Don Schiller - The Ileostomy Specialist
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Dr. Don Schiller has retired from his practice
involving BCIR and Kock Pouch surgery.

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IBD Treatment Could Help Your Depression

October 27, 2017  ·  By: Dr. Don Schiller

Inflammatory bowel disease is strongly associated with symptoms of depression, according to a number of studies, including this NIH-published study from July 2017. Research has shown that people show signs of depression upon feeling symptoms of Crone’s disease and ulcerative colitis, both before and after IBD diagnosis. Although getting a specific diagnosis provides an emotional lift to some, effective treatment to control the symptoms makes the most difference in quality of life.

The IBD/depression connection is logical since the pain and lack of control that patients endure with IBD often cause them to begin avoiding social situations and losing the social support that humans need. This can results in a vicious cycle, where physical symptoms cause depression and depression make physical symptoms more difficult to alleviate. If you’re experiencing depression related to IBD, there are proven steps you can take to improve your quality of life.

Expert Advice to Beat Depression from IBD

If you need help to cope with Crohn’s  disease or another type of IBD, or if a friend or family member is suffering, try the following steps to better physical and mental health: 

  • Calm your mind: Quiet, mindful, slow and controlled breathing– concentrating on the present moment can reduce stress and calm anxiety that comes with the pain of IBD. Lower stress can make your bodily pain easier to control.
  • Move your body: Physical exercise can help banish depression and may also help digestive symptoms. Do the type of exercise you feel capable of with your current level of symptoms. Strenuous exercise is not necessary if it hurts you—consider yoga, which can combine physical exercise and meditation into a single activity.
  • Get counseling: Let a professional guide you to improve the emotional aspects of pain and unpredictability of Crohn’s or other types of IBD. Ask for a referral from your gastroenterologist.
  • Seek support and share: Hospitals or professional counselors may offer support groups for IBD sufferers or you may find support in a forum online. Visit sites like Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of America or check with your doctor’s office or hospital for local options.
  • Plan and practice: You’ll find it easier to travel or join friends for a movie if you’re prepared in advance. Download an app to help you find the nearest bathrooms at your venue or along the route. It only takes a small time commitment and the research can relieve your stress greatly—so you can be free to enjoy yourself.
  • See a specialist about IBD treatment options: Dr. Don Schiller, right here in Los Angeles, is an expert in the most advanced and effective colitis surgeries available, BCIR and the Kock Pouch. Out of town patients are also welcomed. Dr. Schiller is dedicated to helping patients improve their quality of life.

Learn about your options for colitis treatment. Contact us at The Center for Ileostomy Surgery, today. 

Retirement Announcement

Dr. Don Schiller has retired from his practice involving BCIR and Kock Pouch surgery. To find a surgeon who can help you, go to www.qla-ostomy.org and click on the tab Medical Info and you will see a Directory of all the surgeons in the country who perform Continent Ileostomy surgery.

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