Story about Transverse myelitis .

My TM was the side-effect of a neccessary treatment.

Feb 29, 2016


First diagnosed as peripheral neuropathy in 2003, and believing it was the result of extensive use of Flagyl, my TM was not diagnosed until I sought an examination by a specialist in a local MS Clinic due to advancing symptoms.  A neurologist associated with that clinic confirmed through nerve testing that I had both TM and PN.  However, it wasn't until a new gastroenterologist wanted to try Remicade again for my Crohn's disease that the connection to my TM was made: my medical team now believes it is most likely that my TM was the result of Remicade infusions done in 2002-03 for Crohn's symptoms discovered during surgery for my j-pouch (post-colectomy).  While the Remicade did clear up fistula growth and allowed completion of the j-pouch procedure, apparently it triggered inflammation in my T-spine. 

I live with near constant and chronic pain in the lower extremities, spasticity, occasional vertigo, cognitive issues, tinnitus, and fatigue.  The medications I have tried for my TM symptoms have consitently been found to increase my Crohn's issues or cause other side effects.  I moved to Washington State 20 years ago to backpack the mountains and forests . . . and this is what I miss most of all.

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