"The steroids I was put on for my Crohn’s made my hair fall out."

On February 14th, 2025 at 15 years old I was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease. For over two years I had been struggling with severe adnominal pain and deliberating symptoms. Being an athlete that plays 2 sports all year round while dealing with constant fatigue was awful. The steroids I was put on for my Crohn’s made my hair fall out. I watched as barely being able to wrap an elastic around my hair twice, turn into 4 times with plenty of room. I have always been deeply afraid of needles and would have to be held down my flu shot every year. I was forced to get over that fear by monthly blood draws and Remicade infusions every 8 weeks. It’s hard to see all my friends out at parties not having to watch that they consume, while I have to be extra cautious to make sure I do not make my flare up worse. Since February I have still not been able to get myself into remission. I struggle daily in class with my stomach making painful loud noises that makes everyone stare and me. It’s hard having to decline friend’s plans for infusions and appointments. Although I’m not in remission yet, I continue to fight daily to hopefully someday get some relief.

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Clinical definitions do not tell the whole story, you do.