This topic is about a person dealing with Crohn's disease and their journey through various treatments, including the use of Remicade after having a "temporary" ileostomy. Here’s a breakdown of their experience and some helpful advice:

- A woman began experiencing symptoms at age 59, starting with severe anal pain and mouth ulcers.
- In August 2013, she was diagnosed with anal fissures, and by October, doctors suggested Crohn’s disease.
- A colonoscopy in December 2013 confirmed the Crohn’s diagnosis.
- Her initial treatment included Prednisone and Apriso.
- By summer 2014, she developed C. difficile, leading to severe illness and significant weight loss. Various antibiotics were tried without lasting success.
- In September 2014, she had recurrent fissures, and a Kenalog injection in October provided relief.
- She started Remicade infusions in October 2014 but did not notice any benefit.
- On January 9, 2015, she had an emergency "temporary" ileostomy and chose not to reconnect, resulting in the removal of her colon but retention of the rectum and anus.
- After surgery, she felt well, regained weight, and had only one minor mouth ulcer episode.
- She continues to receive Remicade every 8 weeks despite the colectomy.

Key questions she has include:
1. How common is it to continue Remicade after a colectomy/ileostomy?
2. Does anyone without a colon still take Remicade?
3. Has anyone with an ileostomy never experienced a blockage, as fear of obstruction is a main concern?

Additional information shared later:
- She experienced her first true blockage, with no stoma output for over 24 hours and vomiting, requiring emergency surgery to address adhesions.
- The most unpleasant part of the experience was the placement of a nasogastric tube.

Advice and insights from others include:

- Blockage prevention:
- Some long-term ileostomates report never having a true blockage, with occasional abdominal pain being only gas.
- Helpful dietary practices include avoiding high-fiber or fibrous foods like pineapple, coconut, and tough meat.
- Peel apples and potatoes, cook or soften vegetables, and replace whole nuts with nut butters.
- Chew food thoroughly and drink plenty of fluids with meals.

- Continuing Remicade after colectomy:
- Remicade is often continued to suppress any residual or future Crohn’s activity in the remaining gastrointestinal tract, such as the small bowel, rectum, and anus.
- Some Crohn’s patients remain on Remicade for life, even after major resections, to maintain remission.
- It is recommended to discuss the intent of continuing Remicade with a gastroenterologist at the next infusion, as treatment is individualized.