I developed Crohn’s disease in 2023, at the age of 55, following a brutal bout of Covid that had be bedridden for a month and still unwell for another. I started Skyrizi early 2024, and after 6 months or so my Crohn’s symptoms receded. About a year and later I was diagnosed with mild bilateral bronchiectasis, following 2 horrific months of respiratory illnesses with severe coughing.

The most common side effect of Skyrizi is respiratory infections. If I discontinue it, my Crohn’s symptoms will return and they are severe and dangerous. So now I mask indoors, don’t travel on planes or other public transport, and mostly live like a hermit. I also nebulize 7% saline daily and am grateful my bronchiectasis is “mild” and without complications (MAC/NTM).

I have read that some bronchiectasis is caused by autoimmune disorders, which seems likely in my case. Some even think it can be an extra-intestinal manifestation of Crohn’s.