What does “remission” really mean when you’re living with ulcerative colitis? In this candid bonus episode of What the Poop?, Teri shares a personal story about a health scare that turned out not to be a flare — and the important lesson her gastroenterologist taught her about managing expectations in remission.

With honesty and humor, she breaks down the realities of life with UC: why little “blips” are part of the journey, why it’s never wrong to check in with your doctor, and how to balance vigilance with peace of mind.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

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  The panic spiral of thinking a flare might be starting — and what actually happened

  
  


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  Why blood doesn’t always mean a flare-up

  
  


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  The role of tests, follow-ups, and communication with your GI team

  
  


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  How infections and an already inflamed colon can mimic symptoms

  
  


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  The key perspective shift: remission doesn’t mean perfect, it means better

  
  


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  How to manage expectations so you don’t feel “crazy” when symptoms pop up

  
  

Key Takeaway
Even in remission, UC can throw curveballs. Managing expectations isn’t about lowering the bar — it’s about knowing what’s normal for your body, staying proactive, and giving yourself permission to not have it all figured out.

Resources & Links

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  Subscribe to What the Poop? for more real, unfiltered conversations about life with UC and invisible illness

  
  


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  Share this episode with someone navigating their own remission journey