Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) affects more than the digestive system. Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis can also affect the eyes, joints, and skin. Jordan Ditty was diagnosed with IBD as a child, though her diagnosis floated between Crohn’s and ulcerative colitis and she had j-pouch surgery due to a colonic perforation. Recently, she had her j-pouch removed and a permanent ileostomy placed. Surgery gave her with a better quality of life but also a new diagnosis of a skin condition related to IBD, called pyoderma gangrenosum. Learn how Jordan remains hopeful through her long journey with IBD and a host of complications.

Concepts discussed in this episode:

• The Differences Between an Ileostomy and a J-Pouch
• Fistula Types, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prognosis
• How to Prepare Yourself for Ileostomy Surgery
• Mouth Ulcers (Aphthous Stomatitis)
• Overview of J-Pouch Surgery
• Pouchitis After IPAA (J-Pouch) Surgery
• Proctectomy Surgery for Inflammatory Bowel Disease (“Barbie” butt or “Ken” butt surgery)
• Pyoderma Gangrenosum as a Potential Complication of IBD

Find Jordan Ditty on Instagram.

Find Amber J Tresca at AboutIBD.com, Verywell, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram.

Credits: Mix and sound design is by Mac Cooney. Theme music, "IBD Dance Party,” is from ©Cooney Studio.