Young Teacher - Recently Diagnosed

[csd]

Hi
I began having a severely swollen knee with jaw pains over 6 months ago, along with night sweats and weight loss.
After being tested for a wide range of things, a CT scan showed hardening of the bowel wall, which when having a colonoscopy, confirmed that it was inflamed.
I was put on a course of steroids which was gradually reduced over time, all lasting about a month.
They worked well, but now that I'm off them, the knee pain has come back, although not as severe.
My gastroenterologist would like me to begin taking methotrexate pills as soon as I have researched them and agree with him that they are right for me.
He is confident that I have Crohn's, although I haven't had any problems with bowel movements as of yet. (I'm aware that this can happen)

I would really like to know if others would agree with his diagnosis and whether you would agree that methotrexate is a sensible way to go.
Obviously I am nervous about side effects especially because I would have a low immune system and being a teacher, I'm around kids all day.

Any guidance or feedback would be greatly appreciated.

 

[shamrock15]

If it is any consolation, I am a teacher also and work in the elementary panel. I am on remicade and imuran, and haven't really had any issues with my immune system and the junk that kids bring to school. I have had some occasional colds, but all were able to be controlled and not a single day lost to cold/flu. Keep in mind that our systems generally are overactive initially, so immune suppression could just bring them back to normal levels. In 5 or 6 years with these meds, I have had only one major flu - H1N1 - and a few minor colds and respiratory infections. It hasn't been a real problem for me at all. Good luck!

 

[Lady Organic]

Hi and welcome.

methotrexate is a drug commonly used in rhuematology, a bit less in crohns and gastroenterology but gaining acceptance and use. Ive already tried it because I suffer from arthritis related to crohns as well. I think a GI would not say you have crohns if he wasnt sure, so unfortunately, I think you can trust the diagnosis. i have already had a episode in terminal ileum and first part of right colon without any feeling of it. Continuous chronic inflammation can lead to bad consequences if not treated. If you agree to take methotrexate, I highly suggest you take the self-injections over the pills. Injections are favored in terms of absorption in the case of crohns. Talk about it to your GI. concerning side effects, some people may be more sensitive, but personally, i have never had any cold or flu more than any other people. i actually have less and have changed my hygiene habits and have been washing my hands more often. if you are really reluctant to take medication you can always try some diets and see if you can benefit from those. some people do, but not everyone. whatever your decision or plan of action, always keep in touch with your GI for proper fallow up. Click on my signature for IBD-AID diet. good luck.

 

[csd]

Thank you both so much for replying so quickly.

With regards to the suggestion of taking the self-injection over pills.
Are you saying that they are more effective?
I think my gastroenterologist recommended pills due to the ease at which you can take them.
Are their any other benefits to the self-injection?

Many thanks

 

[Lady Organic]

yes the pills are easier to take, but when methotrexate is used for crohns' it is said that the injections are superior. I have a pharmacist specialized in crohns at the hospital and she recommended I took the injections. selft injection is not difficult and is only once a week. doctors know compliance to medication is a big issue. some may favor that approach then.