This topic is about a 25-year-old who has been living with an ileostomy since June 2023 and is now dealing with proctitis, which is causing symptoms like frequent mucus, bleeding, and abdominal pain. They are considering surgical options, specifically a proctectomy or proctocolectomy, and are seeking advice from others who have faced similar decisions at a young age.

Here are some insights and advice shared by others:

1. Many who chose a proctectomy or proctocolectomy, often referred to as "Kenn/Barbie butt," wish they had opted for surgery sooner due to the challenges of long-term medication side effects and ongoing disease.

2. Being younger generally means a quicker physical recovery. Several people highlight that healing at 25 is typically easier than later in life.

3. One person shared their experience of 37 years with ulcerative colitis/Crohn’s and hospitalizations for proctitis. No medication stopped the mucus and bleeding, leading to a proctocolectomy in October 2023. They emphasize the importance of researching the operation and not letting fear of age delay a potentially definitive solution.

4. Another person, who had surgery decades ago, suggests trying to control inflammation with today’s improved medications if possible, noting that medication options are much better now than they were 30 years ago.

5. A J-pouch patient who switched to a permanent ileostomy and had their rectum closed after 18 years of issues found that eliminating the rectal stump ended mucus problems and wishes they had done it in 2004.

6. Someone whose colon stopped working due to hardened mucus chose a total proctocolectomy and feels it restored their quality of life. They stress that the procedure is irreversible, so thorough discussion with the medical team is crucial.

7. For those interested in less-invasive measures first, suggestions include:
- Rectal medications like suppositories and enemas to reduce inflammation.
- Oral therapies tailored for proctitis/IBD.
- Bentyl (dicyclomine) for cramping as needed.
- Prescription enemas with short-chain fatty acids to soothe the rectal lining.

8. Across all replies, it's important to weigh the effectiveness of medications, their side effects, and ongoing quality of life against the finality but potential relief that a proctectomy or proctocolectomy can provide. Ensure you are comfortable with your decision and stay in close consultation with your surgical and GI team.