I have collagenous colitis and had been taking 2 tabs asacol (800 mg) 3 times daily since Aug 31. I started and stopped taking asacol twice because of side-effects. I suspect that I was allergic to it. I have large hives, overall itching, chills, chest pain and shortness of breath, worsening of diarrhea, fatigue, etc. My gastro. thought I only had a virus. Finally I stopped asacol completely ~ the third week of September. I will only be seeing my doctor on Oct.24. A few days after I stopped asacol I came down with what I suspected to be a cold. I had low-grade fever, chills, a cough, etc. My cough worsened. I have been taking symbicort for ~a week. I feel very weak. My cough is finally improving somewhat as long as I continue with the symbicort. Do you think the asacol could have triggered the lung problems?Unless I take an xray the diagnosis is not definitive? Any suggestions? I live in Quebec. I may have to wait until the cows come home to see a specialist.