I was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis which was confirmed by colonoscopy. When I left a very stressful job it cleared up and was not evident on the next colonoscopy. I believe it was all due to stress. I did not take any medication or change my diet.

Dairy triggers my Crohn's disease flares. Also alcohol, spicy food, stress and lack of sleep. I find that a combination of these make me flare up.

My daughter has had 7 surgeries in the last 2 years due to ulcerative colitis and Crohn's. All of her large intestine was removed. She now has a permanent ileostomy and is in the process of having work up done for other autoimmune problems. She is 41! Best wishes to all who suffer with this disease.