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.
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.
- 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)
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.
- 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)
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.
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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)
I have upset tummies all the time everyday for yrs on end, I also get bowel obstructions... They havve also found a small mass in my bowel so waiting on a Colonoscopy its been mths on the urgent waiting list, It's horrible but I've learnt to deal with it...
Hi
Hugs your way and I hope you get seen soon for your colonoscopy. I know here where I am from the wait list to see a doctor or even get seen for anything is long. I hope some how they start to make that better for us.
Sending you hugs and please let us know how everything goes.
Nicky (Team Member)I'm truly sorry to hear about the ongoing digestive issues you've been facing, including the upset stomach and bowel obstructions. It can be incredibly difficult to deal with these problems on a daily basis. And, waiting for a colonoscopy can be frustrating, but I hope you'll get the necessary evaluation and care as soon as possible.
Your ability to adapt and cope with these challenges is a testament to your resilience. If you ever want to discuss your experiences, concerns, or if there's anything specific you'd like to know about digestive health or coping strategies, please feel free to share. You're not alone in your journey - we support you. With regards, Rebecca (community moderator)
