Hi Indy
So glad to hear that you managed to get the Cipro, hope it does the trick.
Although Cipro does definitely help, I am convinced that autoimmune disease is still the main problem for me.
I first got Ulcerative Colitis 40 years ago and the first sign of a flare up was always sacro-illiac and hip pain. I have since been diagnosed with anklylosing spondylitis with MRI and CT evidence. Since my colectomy, it is still the same, as soon as I get a problem with my bowel, my AS gets worse.
I have been on Humira and Infliximab, both of which had really positive effects within 24 hours on both my bowel and AS. Trouble is I had allergic reactions to both so treatment had to be stopped. Steriods make a huge difference too, but after 40 years of taking them and thinning bones they are now a no no.
It really is so frustrating isn't it, when there are drugs you know work and have a huge positive effect on your quality of life, but you can't tolerate them. I feel for you on that.
It sounds like we are facing very similar problems both sides of the ditch. The biggest thing that I have found that non-gastro doctors don't understand is the chronic dehydration. So many times they say, "you are drinking and your blood tests show your electrolyte levels are OK, so you definitely aren't dehydrated". I then explain it to them and get them to do the urine test, which proves the lack of fluid. So frustrating.
Fingers crossed you are on the mend.
Take care
Caroine