caret icon Back to all discussions

Do you experience gut issues with your AS or AxSpa?

People with axSpA are more likely to get inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) than those without it. IBD includes ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. These conditions can cause digestive tract damage, which could require surgery.

Symptoms of IBD include abdominal pain, persistent diarrhea or constipation, blood in the stool, unexpected weight loss, reduced appetite, and fatigue.

  1. Yes I get daily very loose and then some days after I have my Consentyx it'll be almost to the point of constipation constantly have stomach pain I had a colonoscopy and I just had some polyps removed but there was nothing wrong with them

    1. It’s good that your colonoscopy didn’t show anything serious, but that constant pain must have still be exhausting to deal with. Has your doctor considered changing your dosage to avoid you going through that much pain? -Latoya (Team Member)

  2. Yes, I suffer from on/off gastro symptoms. It comes and goes for months at a time. At this moment I am feeling OK with little discomfort or pain in my gut. I am trialling specific supplements recommended by a dietician but not really finding any benefit in doing this just yet. The gut symptoms + calprotectin levels pointed to IBD and was fully investigated earlier this year prior to starting first biologic. Fortunately there wasn’t any identifiable damage to my stomach or intestinal tract. That’s good news, right? The GI consultant suggested the gut symptoms could be the result of years of Anti-inflammatories and Opiate usage. I reduced the amount of Etoricoxib from 120mg to 90mg per day and increased Omeprazole to 40mg per day. That definitely reduced the severity of the gut symptoms during a flare up.

    1. - we appreciate you logging in and sharing your health journey. It's indeed positive news that there wasn't any identifiable damage to your stomach or intestinal tract during the investigation you underwent earlier this year. Monitoring your progress is fundamental to finding relief and keeping gut inflammation controlled. The suggestion from the GI consultant regarding the gut symptoms possibly being linked to years of anti-inflammatories and opiate usage highlights the complexity of managing chronic conditions. I've been told this just recently as well by my gastroenterologist. It is conceivable to believe that NSAIDs and pain relievers are the culprits for your longstanding inflammation. It's vital to work closely with your physicians to find the most effective and holistic approach to address your symptoms and improve your overall well-being. We hope you find relief this holiday season and you start off the New Year healthy and vibrant! Warmly - Rebecca (community moderator)

  3. I have reactive arthritis/positive HLA-B27. Ihave gut issues,but ive started Sulfasalazine and it's helped alot with my gut somewhat with joints.

    1. - Thanks for sharing this info with us here in the community. Managing reactive arthritis and the associated gut problems can be a challenging journey, but it sounds like you're making progress. Have you discussed the joint issue with your physician to see if there is possibly another way to treat both or possibly another medication in addition to the sulfasalazine? Sending you thoughts of healing and wellness. Rebecca (community moderator)

  4. Yes, I definitely do. I have IBS and the stress of the pain I’m in can effect me and cause cramping and daily diarrhea attacks. I’ve been feeling a little better now that I’m taking digestive enzymes along with a probiotic and a prebiotic. I’m hoping that improvement will continue, and that my pain will be reduced if I ever finally get my Enbrel.

    1. ,
      Thank you for adding to the conversation. I'm glad to hear you've found a few things that are making a difference for you. Sending positive thoughts for some news on the Embrel soon.
      All my best, Doreen (Team Member)

Please read our rules before posting.