Posted 10/10/2014 11:54 PM (GMT 0)
Hi all,
I have been reading through some old posts here, but am having difficulties, and just wanted to get opinions or experience from anyone out there. I have been on Lialda for ulcerative colitis for a little over a year, but in the last eight months or so have had repeated bouts of severe stomach distress. I had an EGD scope done and it was negative except the biopsy showed esophagitis, so the GI prescribed PPI for it. I have never had heartburn, just severe stomach burning and upset. However, I also have a condition called dysautonomia and a chronic dizziness problem, and any type of medication gives me side effects, even the PPI; I get very dizzy on it. I do manage to take the Lialda, thankfully. My question is: how many of you who have UC, on 5-ASA, also developed problems with your stomach? My GI says that Lialda cannot possibly be causing the stomach problems, as it is topical in the colon only, but some does get systemically absorbed, and maybe if you are sensitive, it could affect the stomach the way aspirin and NSAIDs do? It says right on the literature from the pharmacy that it can cause gastritis and stomach problems. I hate to go against orders and stop the Lialda, but to tell you the truth, I think the severe gastritis is worse at times than the colitis. Any thoughts appreciated. Also, for those that do have gastritis and/or GERD, do you find that you have to take PPI's, and does it control it? I have found so far that my stomach improves on its own, but I realize that that may change and it may become chronic. Any thoughts appreciated. Thanks.