Some basics about me:
I’m a Professional musician for over 50 years, and an avid golfer, until recently.
Ulcerative Colitis Symptoms:
Extreme bloating and cramping after meals. Inability to expel gas. diarrhea and constipation. Mucus and globules of blood.
My Story
I’ve been dealing with UC for over 8 years and have been on Mesalamine (oral and or suppositories and enemas) for many years with some relief but never achieved remission. Also, Sulfasalazine, Canasa, tried Slippery Elm, Synogut, Chlorophyllim, other supplements, and a host of herbal and dietary regimes from FODMAP to SCD, although I will admit, I haven’t stuck to it as required. My Gastro Dr. rolls his eyes at my attempts to self medicate and has been suggesting Humira for sometime. My recent gaseousness, bloating and cramping have become almost intolerable so I have started with Humira. I am now at week 5, having done the 1st two initial doses (160 and 80 mg) and now started the bi weekly dose of 40mg. After a few days of the first dose I felt and tightness in my throat and chest, what I usually feel when I catch a cold, but the sore throat never manifested, although nasal congestion followed. I figured I had a cold. Doctor said it was OK to take Zycam and OTC meds which I did and It dissipated in about 9-10 days. After 2nd dose, the same thing, mostly in the evenings, and it has kept lingering. Now, I have taken my third injection with the same lingering condition. I stopped taking any OTC meds because there is no congestion or phlegm, just the tightness in my throat, sinus and chest.
I’m wondering if anyone else has had this reaction. I’m planning on sticking with the Humira for 8-10 weeks to see if my UC symptoms diminish before I make an appointment with my gastro Doctor.
So far, the results of Humira have been minimal. I’m hoping the cold symptoms are temporary but will consult with my GP and Gastro doctors if they aren’t. I will appreciate any feedback anyone might share.
Medications, Supplements, and other items I’ve tried:
Canasa suppositories, Lialda, oral mesalamine, mesalamine enemas, sulfasalazine, slippery elm caps, Chlorophyllim,
written by Duane S
submitted in the Colitis Venting Area
I was diagnosed with UC in 2013. Have had 3 or 4 colonoscopies.
I’ve been a professional musician for over 50 years, touring, playing and producing.
