Crohn's Disease Support Group

well I joined this support group 2 months ago when I was first diagnosed with Crohn's. haven't really checked in or gotten involved like I should. it's been a rough couple of months.

ended up having a resection surgery in July. and another 2 day hospital stay last weekend over abdominal pain. really not sure what to make of everything yet.

i've been on steroids since the beginning of all this and they make me feel sicker than the the crohn's does, i believe. i'm waiting to try a drug called Cimzia.

has anyone tried this drug yet and if so how did you do on it?

Hi and sorry you are going thru a rough time. Crohns definitely is a hard disease to wrap your hands around. Myself I started cimzia injections in Jan 09 and after my 8th injection I am doing very well. I've been on so many meds to control crohns that I am still amazed that this treatment has helped me. I was looking at surgery but my GI did not want me having yet another surgery. So for me it has been good. It took a while to find any relief but that can be true with any medication. As for what to eat and not eat, that will be trial and error on your part. Speak with your GI about this. He may tell you to avoid what seems to bother you the most. Posting here with those of us that know what you go thru will help you. We all know how many questions and how frustrating this disease can be. So post whatever questions you have and someeone will lead you in the right direction. Hope you're feeling better from the surgery!

about the steroids subject. ive been on prednisone many times through the years and i have noticed that my joint pains go from moderately able to handle to excruciating pain all in a couple of days.

I am currently on Cimzia, doing a trial study. so far it is going well, I am doing better with no side effects, other than flu like symptoms(achey, headache, fever for a few days after shot)you will just have to be careful about infections, the drug will cause immune suppression.

I've also had good luck with drinking Ensure and having Balance bars, and not eating that much else. I seem to gain weight and feel stronger when I don't try to eat so much.

Hope the Cimzia works for you, goal being to get of steroids, long term use is not a good idea...