Fletch10 said...
Started Remicade on Monday (yay!) - the infusion went well other than the IV Benadryl making me super dizzy - will do the pill next time - and no major effects from the Remicade other than a bit of joint pain in my legs/back.
Right away I noticed an improvement in my energy level, mood and appetite and generally felt more like "myself" than I have in many months.
Right now, I'm also on 25mg prednisone, and 2x daily Cortifoam. I'm having formed bowel movements - 0-2 per day - no urgency or puddles of blood/mucus alone anymore. No tenesmus or straining/cramps.
Today, I had NO bleeding on the first trip to the bathroom, which is probably the first time in 7-8 months! However, bright red blood at the end of the second trip, and the "usual" amount of it 
The nurses did say the Remicade can take up to 3 infusions to really start working, so trying not to be depressed at the sight of blood. Has anyone seen "full" results right away from the Remicade, or should I just relax and be patient?
In the meantime, I've been having quite a bit of heartburn, which GI attributes to prednisone. He recommended Prilosec, however I see it can cause diarrhea and contributes to c diff infections, so I'd prefer not to chance it. Any issues with taking Tums? Does anyone else get heartburn from pred, and is Tums a better way to go?
Thanks!
Many folks with UC have acid reflux and heartburn, including me. Mine is pretty severe and daily. I've never been able to fully figure it out but def think there is a connection with UC and/or UC meds. I took PPI's for years (aciphex etc) and stopped because of all the research that they kill healthy bacteria in the gut, cause cognitive issues after long-term use and increase risk of bone fractures etc. I think they are not a good idea with UC either and I wonder if they can cause flare ups so good call that you are avoiding.
Tums should be fine and you may have to go on a more restricted diet like me. I found that grain free (SCD) is the most effective for UC and GERD as well. Some people need to do low carb for heartburn as well. Eating 6 meals or smaller meals helps me. I just got used to the pain honestly, but it is super annoying.
I'm curious why you decided to go for Remicade after only being diagnosed with mild inflammation 2 months ago? I guess you are intolerant to mesalmine like I am, which limits options. I was, however, able to get out of a mild to moderate flare very recently with low dose balsalaside, SCD diet, fish oil, and VSL 3 without any need for more meds, but it took about
2 months. Doc said colon looked normal on Monday but waiting on pathology report. Anyhow, I'm glad to hear that Remicade may be working for you.
Post Edited (Jane974) : 4/6/2017 2:03:43 PM (GMT-6)