HELP IM CRYING-I have a fistula and my Crohns has spread!!

[Mary]

I went for my second colonoscopy and I was told I have a fistula and she wants to put me on Humira. Please help I am so scared!!!!

 

[Kris]

I took humira and felt great. After 6 months it didn't work for me anymore. I was bummed it didn't work anymore, because it was great not having to take so many meds and just do injections. Are you scared of humira or the injections?

 

[Mary]

Im scared of everything. What is it doesnt work and what is a fistula? My Dr is prescribing anything until she see me next week.

 

[Kris]

I'm so sorry, I hope it works for you. I think a fistula is a kind of a tunnel from one area to another. If meds don't treat it I think they can plug it up somehow. This stupid disease is always scaring the hell out of me to. It seems like once we get one thing under control it surprises us with something else. Humira is really powerful and I hope it works fast for you.

 

[CrohnsNYC]

I am so sorry you are going through this. Breath, seriously take lots of breaths. Did your doctor not explain what a fistula is? You can get some good information from the CCFA website and other resources. I have had fistulas since I was diagnosed and they are not fun, but they certainly are not the worst Crohn's symptoms. I currently have two setons in place to help close them and also started Humira last week (I previously did Remicade but it stopped working). You are not alone! Make sure you ask lots of questions and try not to panic. It will be ok. Hang in there!

Beth

 

[dreamintwilight]

Hey Mary! I got your message and sent you a long response back on Facebook

A fistula is basically a tear in the intestinal lining due to excessive inflammation. If not treated, it can cause an abscess (which is what happened to me and how I found out I had Crohn's).

Where is yours located? Is it internal? Mine was internal, but I know people can have anal fistulas as well as vaginal. I'm not as familiar with the latter two, but know there are people on here who have experience with those sorts and can provide specific info onm those.

Don't be afraid of the Humira, despite all the scary stories out there. It was one of the best things I've done!