From Your IDA Pharmacist: Understanding Crohn’s & Colitis, and Living Well with an Ostomy
Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, collectively known as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), affect thousands of Canadians every year. These chronic conditions can be unpredictable and often impact more than just digestion; they can affect energy, nutrition, and overall quality of life.
At your local IDA Pharmacy, we understand the challenges that come with living with Crohn’s or colitis. Whether you’re newly diagnosed, adjusting to a new treatment, or managing life after ostomy surgery, we’re here to help you every step of the way.
Understanding Crohn’s & Colitis
Both Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis cause inflammation in the digestive tract, but they affect different areas:
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Crohn’s disease can occur anywhere from the mouth to the anus and often affects deeper layers of the bowel wall.
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Ulcerative colitis typically impacts only the colon (large intestine) and rectum, causing inflammation and ulcers on the inner lining.
Common symptoms include abdominal pain, diarrhea, fatigue, and weight loss — but every person’s experience is unique.
Managing IBD often involves a combination of medications, diet adjustments, stress management, and ongoing medical care. Your pharmacist can play a key role in helping you navigate your medications, prevent side effects, and maintain balance in your treatment plan.
Living with an Ostomy
For some individuals with Crohn’s or colitis, surgery may be required to create an ostomy, an opening in the abdomen that allows waste to leave the body. Adjusting to life with an ostomy can take time, physically and emotionally, but with the right support, it’s absolutely possible to live fully and confidently.
Your IDA Pharmacy carries a wide range of ostomy supplies to help you stay comfortable and supported, including:
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Ostomy pouches and wafers from trusted brands
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Skin barrier products to prevent irritation
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Adhesive removers and deodorants for daily comfort and convenience
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Accessories and custom orders to fit your individual needs
If you’re unsure which products are right for you, we can walk you through the options and help you find the best fit for your lifestyle. We also offer special orders from our large supplier catalog to ensure you always have access to the brands and styles you prefer.
How Your IDA Pharmacist Can Help
We’re here to make living with Crohn’s, colitis, or an ostomy a little easier. Your IDA pharmacist can:
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Review your medications for potential interactions or timing adjustments.
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Recommend products for skin protection and ostomy care.
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Help you manage symptoms such as dehydration, vitamin deficiencies, or medication side effects.
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Provide personalized care and product support, with compassion and discretion.
At IDA, our goal is to support your health and comfort every day. Whether you’re picking up your prescriptions, exploring new ostomy products, or simply looking for advice, your local pharmacist is always here to help.